Time & Place
- Time: 1491 BC
- Location: Mount Sinai (Horeb), Wilderness of Sinai
- Setting: Israel encamped at Sinai while Moses receives tabernacle instructions (Exod 24:12–18; 25–31)
Where Are We in the Text?
- Instructions for the tabernacle structure are given: curtains, boards, and veil (Exod 26:1–37).
- Instructions for the altar of burnt offering and the court are given (Exod 27:1–19).
- Instructions for the oil for the lamp and continual light are given (Exod 27:20–21).
Where Are We in Time?
- These chapters occur during Moses’ extended time on the mount receiving revelation (Exod 24:18).
- The instructions precede the construction phase that begins later in the narrative (Exod 35–40).
- Israel remains stationary at Sinai during this instruction period (Exod 19:2).
Where Are We on the Map?
- Mount Sinai (Horeb): Moses receives the pattern and instructions (Exod 25:40; 26:30).
- Israel remains encamped in the Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2).
Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)
- God provides the pattern for His dwelling place among Israel (Exod 25:8–9, 40).
- The Mosaic economy is being ordered in worship and approach to God (Exod 19:5–6; 26–27).
- Priestly mediation and continual worship are being established by divine command (Exod 27:20–21).
Why This Matters
- Worship and access to God are defined by revelation, not human design (Exod 25:40; 26:30).
- The altar and court establish regulated approach and sacrifice within the covenant nation (Exod 27:1–8, 9–19).
How This Reading Relates to What Follows
- Instructions will continue for the priesthood and sanctuary service (Exod 28–31).
- The nation’s obedience will be tested during Moses’ absence (Exod 32).
Summary Orientation
- God details the tabernacle’s structure and its court.
- The altar and continual light are established by command.
- Israel remains at Sinai while Moses receives the revealed pattern.