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Exodus 40

38 verses

TL;DR

Exodus 40 describes the completion of the tabernacle, the consecration of its furnishings, the anointing of Aaron and his sons, and the manifestation of God's presence as a cloud and fire guiding Israel.

Summary

God instructs Moses to set up the tabernacle, placing the Ark of the Testimony, the table, candlestick, altars, and laver as commanded. Moses follows these directives, anointing the tabernacle and its vessels, and anointing Aaron and his sons with holy garments to establish the priesthood. The tabernacle is then raised, the furnishings installed, and the court constructed. As a sign of divine presence, a cloud covers the tabernacle and fire appears at night, marking the route for Israel’s journey. Moses cannot enter the tabernacle while the cloud remains, but when it lifts, the Israelites resume their travels.

Outline
  1. Construction and consecration of the tabernacle and its furnishings.
  2. Anointing of the tabernacle, altar, laver, Aaron, and his sons.
  3. Manifestation of the cloud and fire guiding Israel’s journey.
Themes
Holiness and consecrationDivine presence and guidancePriesthood and covenant
Keywords
tabernaclearkvailincenseburnt offeringlaveranointing oilholinesscloudfirepriesthood
People
MosesAaronAaron's sons
Places
TabernacleTent of the congregationCourtIsrael
Things
Ark of the TestimonyVailTable of the bread of the PresenceCandlestickAltar of incenseAltar of burnt offeringLaverAnointing oilHoly garmentsCoats
Key Verses
  • Exodus 40:34: The cloud and glory of the LORD fill the tabernacle, revealing the divine presence.
  • Exodus 40:18: Moses rears up the tabernacle, showing the completion of the construction.
  • Exodus 40:31: Moses, Aaron, and Aaron’s sons wash their hands and feet, signifying purification before approaching the altar.
Questions
  • What does the consecration of the tabernacle teach about God's desire for holiness?
  • How does the anointing of Aaron and his sons establish a covenant priesthood?
  • In what ways does the cloud and fire function as a divine guide for Israel?
  • Why might Moses have been barred from entering the tabernacle while the cloud remained?
  • How does the narrative of Exodus 40 reflect the broader biblical theme of God revealing Himself to humanity?
Sentiment

neutral
The chapter presents divine instructions, acts of obedience, and manifestations of God's presence without overt emotional language.