Exodus 40

Chapter 40: Setting Up the Tabernacle

Background History and Timeline: Exodus continues the narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, following their deliverance from Egypt. The events likely occurred around the late 15th or early 14th century BCE.

Locations Mentioned: The chapter primarily focuses on the assembly and consecration of the tabernacle within the Israelite camp.

Themes and Conflicts: Exodus 40 emphasizes themes of completion, consecration, and the presence of God in the tabernacle. It highlights the culmination of the Israelites' efforts in constructing the tabernacle and the manifestation of God's glory among His people.

Main Characters: The main characters in this chapter include Moses, Aaron, and the Israelites, as well as Bezalel, Oholiab, and the skilled craftsmen who contributed to the construction of the tabernacle.

Specific Passages:

• Exodus 40:1-15: God instructs Moses on the assembly and consecration of the tabernacle, including the placement of the ark, the table, the lampstand, and the altar of burnt offering. Moses follows God's instructions meticulously.

• Exodus 40:16-33: Moses sets up the tabernacle, erecting its framework, hanging the curtains, and arranging the furnishings according to God's commands. He places the ark in the Most Holy Place and covers it with the mercy seat.

• Exodus 40:34-38: The cloud of God's presence covers the tabernacle, signifying His glory and approval. Whenever the cloud lifts, the Israelites continue their journey, but when it settles, they remain encamped, following the guidance of God's presence.

Explanation: In Exodus 40, Moses carries out the final instructions given by God for the assembly and consecration of the tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place where God's presence will reside among the Israelites.

Moses meticulously follows God's instructions, setting up the tabernacle and arranging its furnishings according to the divine blueprint. He places the ark of the covenant in the Most Holy Place, covering it with the mercy seat where God's presence will dwell between the cherubim.

Once the tabernacle is fully assembled and consecrated, the cloud of God's presence descends upon it, signifying His glory and approval. The cloud serves as a visible manifestation of God's presence among His people, guiding them on their journey through the wilderness. Whenever the cloud lifts, the Israelites know it is time to continue their journey, but when it settles over the tabernacle, they remain encamped, following the guidance of God's presence.

Exodus 40 marks the culmination of the Israelites' efforts in constructing the tabernacle and the fulfillment of God's promise to dwell among His people. It underscores the importance of obedience, reverence, and the presence of God in the life of the community.

The authorship of Exodus is traditionally attributed to Moses, who recorded the events and interactions with God during the Israelites' journey to liberation. While non-biblical sources may not directly verify the specific accounts, archaeological evidence corroborates aspects of ancient Israelite history and culture, providing context for the biblical narrative.

Exodus 40 concludes the book with the establishment of the tabernacle as the central place of worship and communion with God, marking a significant milestone in the journey of the Israelites toward the promised land.