If you’ve ever read the book of Exodus, you may have noticed how much space the Bible gives to describing the tabernacle. Chapter after chapter explains its design, materials, and purpose. This raises an important question: what is the tabernacle, and why did God give it such importance in Scripture?
The tabernacle was far more than a tent. It was a sacred place where God chose to dwell among His people, revealing His holiness, His desire for relationship, and His plan of redemption. Understanding the tabernacle helps us better understand God’s heart and ultimately, Jesus Christ.
What Is the Tabernacle?
The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary built by the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. God gave Moses detailed instructions for its construction in Exodus 25–31, and it was built in Exodus 35–40.
In simple terms, the tabernacle was the place where God’s presence dwelled among Israel. It served as the center of worship, sacrifice, and meeting between God and His people.
Why Did God Build the Tabernacle?
God clearly explained His purpose in Exodus 25:8:
“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.”
The tabernacle existed so that God could:
- Dwell near His people
- Teach Israel about holiness and sin
- Provide a way for forgiveness through sacrifice
- Establish proper worship
The tabernacle showed that God is not distant He desires to live among those He loves.
The Three Parts of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle had three main sections, each representing a deeper level of access to God’s presence.
1. The Outer Court
This area contained:
- The bronze altar (for sacrifices)
- The bronze basin (for cleansing)
It taught that approaching God requires sacrifice and cleansing.
2. The Holy Place
Inside the tent, only priests could enter. It contained:
- The golden lampstand (God’s light)
- The table of showbread (God’s provision)
- The altar of incense (prayers rising to God)
This area represented daily service and worship.
3. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies)
This innermost room held the Ark of the Covenant and represented God’s throne. Only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement.
It symbolized God’s perfect holiness.
The Spiritual Meaning of the Tabernacle
Every part of the tabernacle pointed to spiritual truths:
- Sacrifice – Sin separates us from God
- Cleansing – We must be purified to approach Him
- Light – God guides His people
- Prayer – God hears His people
- Presence – God desires relationship
The tabernacle was a visible lesson about who God is and how sinful humanity can approach a holy God.
What Is the Difference Between the Tabernacle and the Temple?
| Tabernacle | Temple |
|---|---|
| Portable | Permanent |
| Used in the wilderness | Built in Jerusalem |
| Temporary | Long-lasting |
| Moved with Israel | Stayed in one place |
The tabernacle was later replaced by the temple built by King Solomon, but both served the same purpose: God dwelling with His people.
The Tabernacle and Jesus Christ
The tabernacle ultimately pointed forward to Jesus Christ.
- Jesus as God’s dwelling place – “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). The word dwelt means tabernacled.
- Jesus as the sacrifice – The altar pointed to the cross.
- Jesus as the High Priest – He entered God’s presence on our behalf (Hebrews 9:11–12).
- Jesus as access to God – When Jesus died, the temple veil was torn, opening the way to God (Matthew 27:51).
What the tabernacle symbolized, Jesus fulfilled completely.
Why the Tabernacle Still Matters Today
Even though the physical tabernacle no longer exists, its message remains powerful:
- God desires to dwell with His people
- Sin is serious and requires atonement
- Jesus is the only way to God
- Believers are now God’s dwelling place through the Holy Spirit
Today, Christians are called to live holy lives as temples of God’s presence.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tabernacle
What is the tabernacle’s purpose in the Bible?
The tabernacle’s purpose was to serve as God’s dwelling place among Israel and a center for worship, sacrifice, and teaching about holiness.
What is the difference between an altar and a tabernacle?
An altar was used for sacrifices, while the tabernacle was the entire sacred structure that housed God’s presence. The altar was part of the tabernacle.
Where is the Tabernacle of Moses today?
The tabernacle was eventually brought to Jerusalem and absorbed into temple worship. It no longer exists as a physical structure.
What does “tabernacle” mean in Hebrew?
The Hebrew word Mishkan means “dwelling place,” emphasizing God’s desire to live among His people.
Conclusion
So, what is the tabernacle? It was God’s dwelling place among Israel, a sacred space that revealed His holiness, His grace, and His plan of redemption. Though temporary, the tabernacle pointed to an eternal reality Jesus Christ, the true dwelling place of God with humanity.
When we study the tabernacle, we are reminded that God longs to be near His people and invites us to draw close through faith in His Son.
May this truth deepen your faith and draw your heart closer to Him. 🙏
The tabernacle was filled with rich imagery, and understanding its design helps us grasp deeper biblical symbolism and spiritual meaning found throughout Scripture.