Exodus Chapter 40 — Setting Up the Tabernacle
Moses completes the assembly of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, after which the glory of the Lord fills the sanctuary in a cloud.
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Notable Verses
Exodus 40:16
“Moses did so. According to all that the LORD commanded him, so he did.”
This verse emphasizes Moses' faithful adherence to every detail of God's instructions.
Exodus 40:34
“Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the LORD’s glory filled the tabernacle.”
This marks the climax of the book of Exodus, signifying God's dwelling among His people.
Exodus 40:38
“For the cloud of the LORD was on the tabernacle by day, and there was fire in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.”
It describes the visible manifestation of God's guidance for the nation of Israel.
Chapter Summary
Exodus 40 details the final assembly and dedication of the Tabernacle. God instructs Moses to raise the Tent of Meeting on the first day of the first month in the second year after leaving Egypt. Following these specific directions, Moses places the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altars within the structure. He also anoints Aaron and his sons, establishing an everlasting priesthood for their generations. Once the work is finished, the presence of the Lord descends upon the Tabernacle in a cloud, filling it with divine glory so that Moses is unable to enter. This cloud, which appeared as fire by night, became the permanent guide for the children of Israel, directing when they should travel or remain in camp throughout their wilderness journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tabernacle was raised up on the first day of the first month in the second year after the Israelites departed from Egypt.
A cloud covered the Tent of Meeting and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle, which prevented Moses from entering the structure at that time.
They watched the cloud over the Tabernacle; when it was taken up, they traveled, but if it remained, they stayed in place.
Moses used the anointing oil to sanctify the Tabernacle, all its furniture, the altar of burnt offering, and the priests to make them holy for service to the Lord.
Study Note
The phrase 'as the LORD commanded Moses' appears eight times in the latter half of the chapter, highlighting the transition from planning to perfect execution.
Related Chapters
Leviticus 1
The narrative continues immediately into Leviticus with instructions for the offerings to be held in the newly completed Tabernacle.
Numbers 9
This chapter provides further details on how the cloud of the Lord guided Israel during their travels.
Hebrews 9
The New Testament offers a theological reflection on the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
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