Exodus 31:7 – “the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant law with the atonement cover on it, and all the other furnishings of the tent—”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Exodus 31:7 highlights specific elements of the tabernacle that Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other skilled workers were to construct. The verse lists some of the most important components: the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant law, the atonement cover, and all the furnishings within the tent. These items were central to Israelite worship and represented God’s presence among His people. The tent of meeting was where Moses would speak with God, the ark of the covenant housed the stone tablets of the law, and the atonement cover (or mercy seat) was where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of Israel. This verse emphasizes the sacredness and importance of the work that was to be carried out.

Historical Context

The construction of the tabernacle took place after the Israelites had been delivered from Egypt and were encamped at Mount Sinai. God gave Moses detailed instructions for the tabernacle’s construction, which would serve as a portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people during their journey through the wilderness. The items mentioned in this verse—the tent of meeting, the ark of the covenant, and the atonement cover—were not just ritual objects but were central to the Israelites’ relationship with God. The tent of meeting was the place of divine communication, the ark symbolized God’s covenant and law, and the atonement cover was where God’s mercy was demonstrated. The care with which these items were to be constructed reflected their significance in Israel’s worship and daily life.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse underscores the holiness of God and the reverence required in approaching Him. The specific items mentioned in this verse each had deep symbolic meaning. The tent of meeting represented God’s willingness to dwell with His people, the ark of the covenant was a symbol of God’s law and His covenant relationship with Israel, and the atonement cover was a physical representation of God’s mercy and forgiveness. These elements together highlight the need for both obedience to God’s law and reliance on His mercy. The verse also reminds us that worship and the presence of God are not casual matters but are to be approached with the utmost respect and preparation.

Literary Analysis

Exodus 31:7 functions as a concise summary of the key elements of the tabernacle that the workers were to create. The verse lists these elements in a specific order, starting with the tent of meeting, which was the central place of worship, and then moving to the ark and its components. The listing of these items creates a sense of progression, leading from the broader structure (the tent) to the most sacred item (the ark of the covenant and the atonement cover). The phrase “all the other furnishings of the tent” indicates that there were many other items involved, but the focus here is on the most significant pieces. This structure emphasizes the importance of each item in the worship of God.

Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 25:10-22 – This passage gives detailed instructions for the construction of the ark of the covenant, including the atonement cover, underscoring its importance.
• Leviticus 16:14-15 – These verses describe the ritual of the Day of Atonement, where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the atonement cover, highlighting its role in the forgiveness of sins.
• Hebrews 9:3-5 – The New Testament references the ark and the atonement cover, explaining their symbolic significance in the old covenant and how they point to Christ’s work.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Exodus 31:7 serves as a reminder of the seriousness and sanctity of worship. It challenges believers to approach God with reverence, understanding the depth of His holiness and the importance of the covenant relationship He offers. This verse also points to the need for both structure and sacred space in worship, encouraging Christians to consider the environment in which they seek God’s presence. Additionally, it serves as a reminder that God’s presence and forgiveness are available, but they come with a call to live according to His will and to honor the sacredness of His law.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows God’s love in His desire to dwell among His people and provide a way for them to experience His presence and receive His mercy. The tent of meeting and the ark of the covenant were tangible signs of God’s covenant love and His commitment to being with His people. The atonement cover, in particular, symbolizes God’s loving provision for forgiveness, pointing to His willingness to atone for the sins of His people. This verse reflects a God who is both holy and loving, offering a way for His people to draw near to Him while also upholding His righteousness.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Exodus 31:7 connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of what the tabernacle and its furnishings represented. The tent of meeting foreshadows Christ as Immanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23), who came to dwell among His people in the flesh. The ark of the covenant, which contained the law, points to Jesus as the one who perfectly fulfilled the law (Matthew 5:17). The atonement cover, where the high priest made atonement for sins, is a direct foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, where He made atonement for the sins of the world (Romans 3:25). In Christ, the presence of God, the fulfillment of the law, and the means of atonement come together perfectly.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the seriousness and sanctity of the tabernacle’s furnishings influence your understanding of worship today?
2. In what ways can you create sacred spaces in your life where you can experience God’s presence more fully?
3. How does understanding the symbolism of the ark and the atonement cover deepen your appreciation for Christ’s work on the cross?
4. What steps can you take to approach God with greater reverence and respect in your daily life?

This article explores Exodus 31:7, highlighting its significance in the context of Israelite worship and its deeper theological implications for Christians today. It encourages believers to approach God with reverence, understanding the importance of His presence, His law, and His mercy, all of which find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.