The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary built by the Israelites as a dwelling place for God during their journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Designed according to God’s instructions to Moses (Exodus 25–31), it symbolised God’s presence among His people. The structure had three main parts: the Outer Court containing the altar for sacrifices and a basin for washing; the Holy Place with the lampstand table of showbread and altar of incense; and the Most Holy Place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept and where only the high priest could enter once a year. The Tabernacle was made from precious materials donated by the people and could be assembled and moved as they traveled. It served as a place of worship, sacrifice, and divine encounter foreshadowing Jesus Christ, who later “tabernacled” or dwelt among humanity (John 1:14).