Exodus 26: The Tabernacle’s Design

Key Verse: Exodus 26:30"Then you shall erect the tabernacle according to the plan for it that you were shown on the mountain."

God is a God of details.

Every part of the Tabernacle—from the curtains to the frames, the loops to the clasps—is designed with purpose. This is not just a tent. This is the dwelling place of God.

The instructions are specific because God’s presence is holy. Israel is not building something for themselves; they are creating a space where heaven meets earth.

The Holy Place and the Most Holy Place

The Tabernacle has two main sections:

1. The Holy Place – The first room, where the priests enter daily to tend the lampstand, the table of bread, and the incense altar.

2. The Most Holy Place – The inner chamber, where the Ark of the Covenant sits, covered by the mercy seat.

These two spaces are separated by a heavy veil. No one can enter the Most Holy Place except the high priest, once a year, on the Day of Atonement. The veil is a reminder that sin separates humanity from God.

Every Detail Points to Jesus

This chapter is filled with symbolism of Christ.

• The Veil – When Jesus died, “the curtain of the temple was torn in two” (Matthew 27:51). His death removed the barrier between us and God.

• The Tabernacle – John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” The word “dwelt” literally means “tabernacled.” Jesus is the true dwelling place of God.

• The Most Holy Place – Through Christ, we now have direct access to God. “We have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus.” (Hebrews 10:19)

A Lesson for Us

God was not just giving Israel a structure—He was teaching them about His holiness, His presence, and His desire to dwell with them.

• Sin separates, but Christ restores. The veil was a barrier, but Jesus tore it down.

• God is intentional in every detail. If He cared about every loop and clasp, how much more does He care about the details of our lives?

• His presence is meant to be our dwelling place. Are we making space for Him in our lives, or are we keeping Him behind a veil?

God’s desire has always been to be with His people. The question is—are we drawing near?