Exodus Chapter 37 Bible Study: Crafting the Sacred Furnishings, The Ark, Mercy Seat, Table, Lampstand, and Altar of Incense

Construction of the Ark of the Covenant

Exodus chapter 37 details the actual construction of the sacred furnishings for the tabernacle, beginning with the most holy object: the Ark of the Covenant. “Then Bezalel made the ark of acacia wood; two and a half cubits was its length, a cubit and a half its width, and a cubit and a half its height. And he overlaid it with pure gold inside and outside, and made a molding of gold all around it. He cast for it four rings of gold to be set in its four corners: two rings on one side, and two rings on the other side. And he made poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold. He put the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, to bear the ark.”

The Ark of the Covenant was the central piece of furniture in the Most Holy Place, representing God’s throne and His presence among His people. Its construction by Bezalel, the divinely gifted artisan, underscores the sacredness and precision required for this holy object.

Materials: The Ark was made of “acacia wood,” a durable and rot-resistant wood abundant in the wilderness. This wood was then “overlaid with pure gold inside and outside.” The combination of wood (representing humanity or creation) and pure gold (representing divinity, purity, and glory) is highly symbolic. It signifies that God, in His divine glory, would dwell among His people, who were represented by the earthly wood. The pure gold indicated the absolute holiness and perfection of God’s presence.
Dimensions: The precise dimensions (two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide and high) were given by God (Exodus 25:10). This exactness emphasizes God’s meticulous nature and His demand for precision in all things pertaining to His worship.
Gold Molding: A “molding of gold all around it” (often interpreted as a crown or rim) adorned the top edge of the Ark. This molding added to its beauty and majesty, signifying its royal and sacred status as the throne of God.
Rings and Poles: “Four rings of gold” were cast and attached to its corners, through which “poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold” were inserted. These poles were crucial for bearing the Ark. The command was that these poles were never to be removed (Exodus 25:15), ensuring that the Ark was always ready for transport and that no one would touch the Ark itself, which was considered extremely holy (2 Samuel 6:6-7). The poles allowed the Levites to carry the Ark without directly touching its sacred surface, respecting its holiness and the danger of defilement.

The Ark’s primary purpose was to house the “Testimony,” the two tablets of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 25:16; 31:18). It was the physical embodiment of God’s covenant with Israel. Its construction marked the beginning of God’s tangible dwelling among His people, a constant reminder of His presence, His laws, and His covenant faithfulness. The Ark was the most sacred object in the tabernacle, serving as the focal point of Israel’s worship and their relationship with the Almighty.

The Mercy Seat and Cherubim of Glory

Immediately following the construction of the Ark, Bezalel proceeded to craft its most vital component: the Mercy Seat, along with the cherubim that adorned it. “He also made the mercy seat of pure gold; two and a half cubits was its length and a cubit and a half its width. And he made two cherubim of gold; of hammered work he made them at the two ends of the mercy seat: one cherub at one end on this side, and the other cherub at the other end on that side. He made the cherubim at the two ends of it of one piece with the mercy seat. The cherubim spread out their wings above, covering the mercy seat with their wings; and they faced one another; the faces of the cherubim were toward the mercy seat.”

The Mercy Seat (Kapporet): This was a solid slab of “pure gold,” precisely matching the dimensions of the Ark’s top, serving as its lid. The Hebrew word kapporet is derived from the verb kaphar, meaning “to cover” or “to make atonement.” This is why it is translated as “Mercy Seat,” because it was here, on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), that the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of the sin offering. The blood, representing life given for sin, would cover the broken Law contained within the Ark, providing atonement and allowing God’s mercy to be extended to His people (Leviticus 16). The Mercy Seat was the place where God’s holiness and justice met His grace and mercy.
Cherubim of Glory: From the same piece of pure gold as the Mercy Seat, Bezalel fashioned “two cherubim.” These were not separate figures placed on top, but “of hammered work he made them at the two ends… of one piece with the mercy seat.” This indicates an incredibly intricate and skillful process of hammering and shaping solid gold. Cherubim were angelic beings associated with guarding God’s holiness and His presence (Genesis 3:24; Ezekiel 10:1-22). Their wings were “spread out above, covering the mercy seat,” symbolizing their role as guardians of God’s throne and His holy presence. Their faces were “toward the mercy seat,” signifying their reverent attention to the place where God’s mercy was manifested.
Symbolism: The entire assembly of the Ark, the Mercy Seat, and the cherubim formed the earthly representation of God’s throne. God promised to meet with Moses “from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim” (Exodus 25:22). This was the most sacred spot in the entire tabernacle, the very dwelling place of God’s manifest presence. The cherubim, gazing upon the Mercy Seat, symbolically looked upon the place where atonement was made, highlighting the profound mystery and necessity of God’s provision for sin.

This entire assembly powerfully foreshadows Jesus Christ. He is our ultimate Mercy Seat, through whom atonement is made for our sins (Romans 3:25). He is the one who reconciles us to God, allowing us to approach the Father with confidence, no longer separated by sin. The cherubim, guarding the way to God’s presence in the Old Covenant, now witness the open access provided through Christ’s sacrifice. The construction of the Mercy Seat was not just an artistic feat but a theological masterpiece, embodying the core message of God’s redemptive plan.

Construction of the Table of Showbread

Moving from the Most Holy Place to the Holy Place, Bezalel then constructed the Table of Showbread. “He made the table of acacia wood; two cubits was its length, a cubit its width, and a cubit and a half its height. And he overlaid it with pure gold, and made a molding of gold all around it. Also he made for it a frame of a handbreadth all around, and made a molding of gold for the frame all around. And he cast for it four rings of gold, and put the rings on the four corners that were at its four legs. The rings were close to the frame, to be holders for the poles to bear the table. And he made the poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold, to bear the table.”

Materials and Dimensions: The table was made of “acacia wood” overlaid with “pure gold,” similar to the Ark. This again signifies the combination of earthly material consecrated and covered by divine glory. Its dimensions (two cubits long, one cubit wide, and a cubit and a half high) were precise, as commanded by God (Exodus 25:23).
Gold Molding and Frame: Like the Ark, it had a “molding of gold all around it,” adding to its sacred and royal appearance. Uniquely, it also had a “frame of a handbreadth all around,” also adorned with a “molding of gold.” This frame likely served as a border or a raised edge, perhaps to keep the showbread and utensils securely on the table.
Rings and Poles: Four “rings of gold” were attached to the legs, close to the frame, to hold the “poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold.” These poles allowed the table to be carried by the Levites, ensuring it was never directly touched and remained portable.
Purpose and Symbolism: The Table of Showbread (literally “Bread of the Presence” or “Bread of the Face”) was where twelve loaves of unleavened bread were placed each Sabbath, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This bread was a perpetual offering, symbolizing Israel’s communion with God and His constant provision for His people. It was a reminder that God sustained them physically and spiritually. The bread was eaten by the priests in the Holy Place, symbolizing their fellowship with God.

The Table of Showbread foreshadows Jesus Christ as the “Bread of Life” (John 6:35). He is the one who truly sustains us, both physically and spiritually. He is the living bread that came down from heaven, providing eternal life to those who believe in Him. The presence of the bread in God’s dwelling place signifies God’s desire to fellowship with His people and to provide for all their needs. The golden table, holding the bread, speaks of the divine provision and the sacredness of God’s sustenance. Its construction was a testament to God’s meticulous care for His people’s spiritual and physical nourishment.

The Utensils for the Table

Complementing the Table of Showbread, Bezalel also crafted the various utensils necessary for its service. “He made the utensils which were on the table: its dishes, its pans, its bowls, and its pitchers for pouring, of pure gold.”

Materials: All these utensils were made of “pure gold,” emphasizing their sacredness and their suitability for use in God’s holy presence. The use of pure gold ensured that everything associated with the Table of Showbread was of the highest quality and purity, reflecting the glory of God.
Types of Utensils:
- Dishes (kearot): Likely flat plates or platters for holding the showbread.
- Pans (kappot): Possibly spoons or incense pans, though their exact use with the showbread is debated, they might have been used for frankincense placed on the bread (Leviticus 24:7).
- Bowls (menakiyot): Cups or bowls, perhaps for wine offerings or for holding the frankincense.
- Pitchers for pouring (k’savot): Used for pouring libations (drink offerings) that accompanied the bread or for pouring oil.
Purpose and Symbolism: These utensils were essential for the proper service of the Table of Showbread. They facilitated the presentation of the bread, the accompanying offerings, and the overall ritual. Their presence underscored the completeness of God’s provision and the meticulous nature of His worship. Every detail, down to the smallest utensil, was designed to contribute to the sacredness and functionality of the Holy Place.

The utensils, made of pure gold, further highlighted the preciousness of God’s provision and the sacredness of communion with Him. Just as the bread symbolized Christ, the utensils, though secondary, played a role in the complete picture of divine sustenance and fellowship. They remind us that in God’s service, even the seemingly minor details are important and contribute to the overall beauty and effectiveness of worship. The crafting of these items by Bezalel demonstrates his versatile skill and the comprehensive nature of the divine instructions for the tabernacle. Every piece had its place and purpose in the intricate system of worship designed by God.

Construction of the Golden Lampstand (Menorah)

One of the most visually striking and symbolically rich furnishings in the Holy Place was the Golden Lampstand, or Menorah. “He also made the lampstand of pure gold; of hammered work he made the lampstand. Its shaft, its branches, its bowls, its ornamental knobs, and its flowers were of one piece with it. And six branches came out of its sides: three branches of the lampstand out of one side, and three branches of the lampstand out of the other side. Three bowls were made like almond blossoms on one branch, each with its ornamental knob and flower, and three bowls made like almond blossoms on the other branch, each with its ornamental knob and flower—and so for the six branches coming out of the lampstand. And on the lampstand itself were four bowls made like almond blossoms, each with its ornamental knob and flower. There was a knob under the first two branches of the same piece with it, and a knob under the second two branches of the same piece with it, and a knob under the third two branches of the same piece with it—according to the six branches coming out of it. Their knobs and their branches were of one piece with it; all of it was one hammered piece of pure gold.”

Materials and Method: The Lampstand was made of “pure gold” and, remarkably, was “of hammered work.” This meant it was fashioned from a single talent of solid gold, meticulously hammered and shaped into its intricate form. This method of creation speaks to the immense skill of Bezalel and the preciousness of the object. It also symbolizes the unity and indivisibility of divine light.
Design: The Lampstand consisted of a central “shaft” with “six branches” extending from its sides (three on each side). Each branch and the central shaft were adorned with decorative elements: “bowls made like almond blossoms,” “ornamental knobs,” and “flowers.” The almond blossom motif is significant, as the almond tree was the first to blossom in spring, symbolizing new life and divine awakening (Numbers 17:8, Aaron’s rod that budded).
Unity: The repeated phrase “of one piece with it” emphasizes that the entire Lampstand, with all its intricate details, was fashioned from a single piece of gold. This unity underscored the singular source of divine light and truth.
Purpose and Symbolism: The Golden Lampstand provided the only light in the Holy Place, which had no windows. It burned continuously (Exodus 27:20-21), symbolizing God as the source of all light and truth. It illuminated the Table of Showbread and the Altar of Incense, signifying that God’s light enables us to understand His provision and approach Him in worship.

The Menorah is a powerful symbol that foreshadows Jesus Christ as the “Light of the World” (John 8:12; 9:5). He is the true light that illuminates humanity, dispelling spiritual darkness. It also symbolizes the Church as a light in the world (Matthew 5:14-16), reflecting Christ’s light. The continuous burning of the lampstand speaks of God’s eternal presence and His unwavering truth. The intricate, hammered gold design signifies the divine perfection and preciousness of God’s revelation. Its construction was a masterpiece of sacred art, embodying profound spiritual truths about God’s illuminating presence.

The Lamps and Utensils of the Lampstand

Accompanying the Golden Lampstand were its essential components for holding the oil and maintaining the light. “He made its seven lamps, its wick-trimmers, and its trays of pure gold. Of a talent of pure gold he made it and all its utensils.”

Seven Lamps: The Lampstand had “seven lamps,” one at the top of the central shaft and one on each of the six branches. The number seven is highly symbolic in the Bible, representing completeness, perfection, and divine fullness. These lamps would hold the pure olive oil that fueled the light.
Wick-Trimmers (melkachayim): These were tools used to trim the burnt wicks, ensuring a clear, continuous flame and preventing smoke. This symbolized the need for constant maintenance and purification in spiritual life to keep our light shining brightly.
Trays (machtot): These were likely small dishes or ash pans used to collect the trimmed wick remnants and any overflow oil, keeping the lampstand clean and pure. This again speaks to the meticulous care required in God’s service and the removal of impurities.
Materials: All these utensils, including the lamps, wick-trimmers, and trays, were made of “pure gold,” further emphasizing their sacredness and their integral role in the function of the Lampstand. The entire assembly, including the Lampstand itself and all its utensils, was made “of a talent of pure gold.” A talent was a significant weight (approximately 75 pounds or 34 kilograms), indicating the immense value and preciousness of this single, solid gold furnishing.

The construction of these utensils by Bezalel highlights the meticulous attention to detail required for the tabernacle. Every piece, no matter how small or seemingly functional, was crafted from the finest materials and designed to serve a sacred purpose. The continuous burning of the lamps, maintained by the trimming of wicks and the cleaning of trays, speaks to the ongoing need for spiritual vigilance, purification, and the constant replenishment of the Holy Spirit’s anointing in our lives to shine for God. The Lampstand and its utensils were not just sources of light; they were powerful visual aids, teaching Israel about God as the source of truth, the need for purity, and the importance of continuous illumination in their walk with Him.

Construction of the Altar of Incense

The final piece of furniture constructed for the Holy Place was the Altar of Incense. “He made the incense altar of acacia wood. Its length was a cubit and its width a cubit—it was square—and two cubits was its height. Its horns were of one piece with it. And he overlaid it with pure gold, its top, its sides all around, and its horns. He also made for it a molding of gold all around it. Two rings of gold he made for it, under its molding on both sides, to be holders for the poles with which to bear it. And he made the poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold.”

Materials and Dimensions: The Altar of Incense was made of “acacia wood” and completely “overlaid with pure gold,” signifying its sacredness and its connection to the divine. Its dimensions (one cubit long, one cubit wide – making it square – and two cubits high) were precise, as commanded by God (Exodus 30:1-2).
Horns: It featured “horns” at its four corners, which were “of one piece with it.” Horns in biblical symbolism often represent power, strength, and authority. In the context of an altar, they were also a place where the blood of sin offerings was applied (Leviticus 4:7) and a place of refuge for those seeking asylum (1 Kings 1:50).
Gold Molding, Rings, and Poles: A “molding of gold all around it” added to its majestic appearance. Two “rings of gold” were attached to its sides, under the molding, to hold the “poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold.” These poles allowed it to be carried during the tabernacle’s journeys, ensuring its portability.
Purpose and Symbolism: The Altar of Incense stood directly before the Veil, separating it from the Most Holy Place. Incense was burned on this altar every morning and evening (Exodus 30:7-8), creating a fragrant smoke that ascended towards God. This incense symbolized the prayers of God’s people rising to Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4). The continuous burning of incense signified the constant nature of prayer and worship.

The Altar of Incense highlights the importance of prayer in the life of a believer and in the worship of God. It was the point of communion, where the sweet aroma of prayer ascended to the Lord. Its golden overlay and prominent position before the Veil indicated the preciousness and efficacy of prayer when offered in the prescribed way. It foreshadows Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate intercessor, through whom our prayers are made acceptable to God (John 14:13-14; Hebrews 7:25). The construction of this altar completed the furnishings of the Holy Place, each piece playing a vital role in the intricate system of worship and communion with a holy God.

The Anointing Oil and Sweet Incense

Exodus 37 concludes by mentioning the preparation of two essential sacred compounds: the Anointing Oil and the Sweet Incense. “He made the holy anointing oil and the pure incense of sweet spices, according to the work of the perfumer.”

The Holy Anointing Oil: This was a specially prepared oil, whose recipe was given by God (Exodus 30:22-33). It was used to consecrate the tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests, setting them apart as holy for God’s service. Its components included pure myrrh, sweet cinnamon, fragrant cane, cassia, and olive oil. The prohibition against replicating it for common use underscored its sacredness.
- Symbolism: Anointing oil symbolized the Holy Spirit and divine consecration. Just as the oil set apart objects and individuals for God’s use, the Holy Spirit sets apart believers for God’s purposes and empowers them for service. It signifies divine presence, blessing, and empowerment.
The Pure Incense of Sweet Spices: This was also a specially formulated incense, whose recipe was given by God (Exodus 30:34-38). It was composed of various fragrant resins and spices (gum resin, onycha, galbanum, frankincense) and was to be burned exclusively on the Altar of Incense. Like the anointing oil, it was forbidden to be replicated for common use.
- Symbolism: The sweet incense symbolized the prayers of God’s people ascending to Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4). Its fragrant smoke represented the pleasing aroma of worship and intercession before the Lord. The “pure” nature of the incense signified the purity required in approaching God in prayer.

The mention of these two compounds at the end of the chapter, after the construction of the furnishings, signifies that these were the final preparations for the tabernacle’s operation. They were crucial for the consecration of the sacred space and for the ongoing worship practices. The fact that they were made “according to the work of the perfumer” indicates that skilled artisans, likely those with expertise in compounding fragrances, were responsible for their precise preparation, following God’s exact recipes. This highlights God’s demand for accuracy and purity in all aspects of worship. Both the anointing oil and the incense were essential for the tabernacle to function as a holy dwelling place and a center for communion with God, embodying the principles of divine consecration and acceptable worship.

Theological Themes in Exodus 37

Exodus 37, while a detailed account of craftsmanship, is deeply embedded with profound theological themes that reveal God’s character and His redemptive plan.

1. God’s Meticulous Holiness and Order: The precise dimensions, specific materials (pure gold, fine linen, acacia wood), and intricate designs for every piece of furniture underscore God’s absolute holiness and His demand for order and perfection in His worship. Every detail was divinely ordained, reflecting His character and the sacredness of His presence. This teaches us that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that our approach to Him should always be with reverence and attention to His revealed will.

2. God’s Desire to Dwell Among His People: The construction of these furnishings was for the ultimate purpose of creating a dwelling place where God could reside in the midst of Israel. This theme of God desiring to be with His people is central to the entire biblical narrative, from Eden to the New Jerusalem. The tabernacle was a tangible manifestation of this desire, providing a physical space for divine-human encounter.

3. The Balance of Divine and Human: The furnishings were made of both natural materials (acacia wood, linen, animal skins) and precious materials (gold, silver, precious stones). This combination symbolizes the meeting of the divine and the human, the earthly and the heavenly. The wood, representing humanity, was often overlaid with gold, signifying humanity being covered by divine glory and consecrated for God’s use.

4. Atonement and Mercy: The Mercy Seat, above the Ark of the Covenant, is the most explicit theological focal point. Its name and purpose (the place where blood was sprinkled for atonement) highlight God’s provision for sin. It demonstrates that God’s holiness demands justice, but His love provides a way for mercy to be extended through sacrifice. This is the heart of the gospel, foreshadowing Christ’s atoning work.

5. Divine Light and Truth: The Golden Lampstand, providing the only light in the Holy Place, symbolizes God as the ultimate source of light, truth, and revelation. It signifies that God’s presence illuminates our path and enables us to understand His ways. This points to Christ, the Light of the World.

6. The Ascending Prayers of the Saints: The Altar of Incense, where fragrant smoke ascended, powerfully symbolizes the prayers of God’s people rising to Him. It emphasizes the importance of continuous prayer and worship as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. This highlights God’s desire for communion and His receptiveness to the petitions of His people.

7. Consecration and Empowerment by the Spirit: The Holy Anointing Oil, used to consecrate the tabernacle and its furnishings, symbolizes the Holy Spirit. It signifies that everything dedicated to God’s service must be set apart and empowered by His Spirit. This foreshadows the anointing of believers by the Holy Spirit for ministry and holy living.

8. Foreshadowing of Christ: Every piece of furniture, from the Ark to the Altar of Incense, serves as a powerful type or shadow pointing to Jesus Christ. * Ark: God’s presence, the Law, and ultimately Christ as the fulfillment of the Law. * Mercy Seat: Christ as our propitiation and the place where God’s mercy is found. * Table of Showbread: Christ as the Bread of Life, our sustenance. * Golden Lampstand: Christ as the Light of the World. * Altar of Incense: Christ as our great Intercessor, through whom our prayers ascend. * Anointing Oil: Christ as the Anointed One (Messiah) and the Holy Spirit empowering believers.

These theological themes demonstrate that the tabernacle and its furnishings were not merely ancient artifacts but divinely inspired symbols packed with profound spiritual meaning, all pointing to God’s character and His ultimate plan of salvation through His Son.

Practical Lessons from Exodus 37

Exodus 37, despite its ancient context, offers numerous practical lessons for believers today, guiding our understanding of worship, service, and our relationship with God.

1. Excellence in Service to God: The meticulous craftsmanship and use of pure, precious materials for every single item in the tabernacle teach us to offer God nothing less than our very best. Whether it’s our time, talents, resources, or the quality of our work, we should strive for excellence in all that we do for Him. God deserves our finest efforts.

2. Every Detail Matters to God: The precise dimensions and intricate designs of each furnishing highlight God’s attention to detail. This reminds us that in our spiritual lives and in our service, even the seemingly small or hidden details are important to God. Our faithfulness in the little things reflects our reverence for Him.

3. God Equips for His Call: The fact that Bezalel and Oholiab, and other artisans, were divinely gifted with wisdom and skill, assures us that God provides the necessary abilities for the tasks He calls us to. We don’t have to rely solely on our natural talents; we can trust that the Holy Spirit will empower us for His purposes. This should encourage us to step out in faith and use our gifts.

4. The Centrality of Atonement and Mercy: The Mercy Seat, as the place of atonement, reminds us that our access to God is always through His provision for sin. We cannot approach a holy God on our own merit. This should lead us to a deeper appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice, which is the ultimate atonement that allows us to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).

5. We Are Called to Be Light: The Golden Lampstand, providing light in the Holy Place, symbolizes God as the source of light and truth. As believers, we are called to reflect that light in a dark world (Matthew 5:14-16). This involves living out God’s truth, sharing the gospel, and being a beacon of hope and righteousness.

6. The Power and Importance of Prayer: The Altar of Incense, where prayers ascended to God, underscores the vital role of prayer in our lives. It reminds us to pray continuously, knowing that our prayers, offered through Christ, are a sweet aroma to God and are powerful and effective (1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:16).

7. Consecration to God’s Purpose: The Anointing Oil, setting apart objects and individuals as holy, teaches us about consecration. As believers, we are set apart by God for His purposes and empowered by the Holy Spirit. We should live lives that are dedicated and devoted to Him, recognizing that we are His holy vessels.

8. Understanding Christ Through the Old Testament: The profound foreshadowing of Jesus Christ in every piece of tabernacle furniture encourages us to read the Old Testament with a Christ-centered perspective. It reveals God’s consistent plan of salvation unfolding throughout history and deepens our appreciation for the person and work of Christ.

These practical lessons from Exodus 37 guide us in our worship, service, and daily walk, reminding us of God’s holiness, His provision, and His desire for intimate fellowship with His people.

Cross-References and Broader Biblical Themes

Exodus 37, detailing the construction of the tabernacle furnishings, is rich with connections to broader biblical themes and finds echoes in numerous other passages throughout Scripture.

1. The Ark of the Covenant:

Exodus 25:10-22: God’s initial detailed instructions for the Ark and Mercy Seat.
Numbers 10:33-36: The Ark leads Israel through the wilderness.
Joshua 3:1-17: The Ark leads Israel across the Jordan River.
1 Samuel 4-6: The Ark captured by the Philistines and its return, demonstrating its power and holiness.
2 Samuel 6:1-11: Uzzah’s death for touching the Ark, emphasizing its sacredness.
Jeremiah 3:16: Prophecy that in the future, the Ark will no longer be needed because God’s presence will be directly with His people.
Hebrews 9:4: Mentions the Ark containing the golden pot of manna, Aaron’s rod, and the tablets of the covenant.
Revelation 11:19: The Ark of His covenant is seen in heaven, pointing to the heavenly reality.

2. The Mercy Seat and Atonement:

Exodus 25:17-22: God’s command for the Mercy Seat and His promise to meet Moses there.
Leviticus 16: The detailed instructions for the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), where the High Priest sprinkles blood on the Mercy Seat.
Romans 3:25: “whom God set forth as a propitiation [mercy seat] by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness.” This is a direct New Testament fulfillment.
Hebrews 9:5: Refers to the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat.
Hebrews 4:16: Encourages us to “come boldly to the throne of grace,” which is the antitype of the Mercy Seat, now accessible through Christ.

3. The Table of Showbread:

Exodus 25:23-30: God’s initial instructions for the table and its bread.
Leviticus 24:5-9: Details the perpetual placement and priestly consumption of the showbread.
Matthew 12:3-4; Mark 2:25-26; Luke 6:3-4: Jesus references David eating the showbread, showing its sacredness but also its purpose for human need.
John 6:35, 48-51: Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life,” fulfilling the symbolism of the showbread.

4. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah):

Exodus 25:31-40: God’s initial detailed instructions for the Lampstand.
Exodus 27:20-21: Command for pure olive oil and continuous burning of the lamps.
Numbers 8:2-4: Aaron lights the lamps.
Zechariah 4:2-6: A vision of a lampstand with two olive trees, symbolizing the Spirit of God.
Matthew 5:14-16: Jesus tells His followers, “You are the light of the world.”
John 8:12, 9:5: Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world.”
Revelation 1:12-20: John sees seven golden lampstands, representing the seven churches, with Christ walking among them.

5. The Altar of Incense:

Exodus 30:1-10: God’s initial instructions for the Altar of Incense.
Exodus 30:34-38: The recipe for the holy incense.
Psalm 141:2: “Let my prayer be set before You as incense, The lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.”
Luke 1:8-10: Zechariah burning incense in the temple, while the people pray outside.
Revelation 5:8, 8:3-4: Golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints, offered before God’s throne.
Hebrews 7:25: Christ “always lives to make intercession” for us.

6. The Anointing Oil and Holy Incense:

Exodus 30:22-33: The recipe for the holy anointing oil and its sacred use.
Exodus 30:34-38: The recipe for the holy incense.
Leviticus 8:10-12: Moses anoints the tabernacle and Aaron with the oil.
Isaiah 61:1: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me…” (Prophecy of Christ).
Acts 10:38: “how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power.”
1 John 2:20, 27: Believers have an “anointing from the Holy One.”

Exodus 37, therefore, is far more than a mere inventory of ancient craftsmanship; it is a divinely inspired blueprint, each piece a profound symbol pointing to the character of God, the necessity of atonement, and ultimately, the person and work of Jesus Christ, who fulfills all the types and shadows of the tabernacle.