Exodus 39:35 – “The ark of the covenant law with its poles and the atonement cover.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 39:35 describes the completion of the Ark of the Covenant, including its poles and the atonement cover, also known as the mercy seat. The Ark was the most sacred item within the Tabernacle, symbolizing God’s covenant with the people of Israel and His presence among them. The Ark contained the tablets of the covenant law, which were the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
The poles attached to the Ark were used to carry it, as the Ark was never to be touched directly by human hands. The atonement cover was placed on top of the Ark and was made of pure gold. This cover was significant because it was where the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of a sacrifice on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing the forgiveness of Israel’s sins. The atonement cover was where God’s presence would appear in the form of a cloud between the cherubim, making it the focal point of Israel’s worship and relationship with God.
Historical Context
The Ark of the Covenant was constructed during the Israelites’ time in the wilderness after they had been freed from slavery in Egypt. God gave Moses specific instructions on how to build the Ark, including the materials to use and the dimensions to follow. The Ark was made from acacia wood and overlaid with gold, reflecting its importance and the holiness of its purpose.
The Ark was placed in the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle, a space separated by a curtain from the rest of the sanctuary. Only the High Priest could enter this space, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. The Ark represented God’s throne on earth, and its presence among the Israelites was a powerful reminder of God’s covenant with them and His guidance as they journeyed toward the Promised Land.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 39:35 emphasizes the holiness and significance of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark was the physical manifestation of God’s presence among His people, and it served as a symbol of His covenant and His law. The inclusion of the atonement cover highlights the importance of atonement and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. The blood sprinkled on the atonement cover represented the sacrifice necessary to atone for the sins of the people, pointing to the seriousness of sin and the cost of forgiveness.
This verse also underscores the idea of God’s presence being both near and yet set apart. While the Ark symbolized God’s presence with His people, the need for a cover, poles, and the restricted access to the Ark all pointed to the holiness of God and the reverence with which He must be approached.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 39:35 is part of a detailed narrative that describes the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The verse is succinct yet rich in meaning, listing the key components of the Ark of the Covenant. The specific mention of the “poles” and the “atonement cover” emphasizes their importance in the overall function and symbolism of the Ark.
The verse’s structure, with its focus on the Ark and its parts, contributes to the broader theme of obedience and reverence that runs throughout the description of the Tabernacle. The careful attention to detail in the construction of the Ark reflects the seriousness with which the Israelites approached their relationship with God and their worship practices.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:10-22: These verses provide the original instructions for the construction of the Ark, including the dimensions, materials, and the design of the atonement cover.
- 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 to atone for the sins of Israel.
- Hebrews 9:4-5: “Above the ark were the cherubim of the Glory, overshadowing the atonement cover. But we cannot discuss these things in detail now.” This New Testament reference highlights the significance of the Ark and the atonement cover in the context of the new covenant.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 39:35 serves as a reminder of the importance of God’s presence and the seriousness of sin. The Ark of the Covenant, with its law, poles, and atonement cover, symbolizes God’s holiness and the need for atonement. This verse challenges us to reflect on how we approach God in our own lives, recognizing His holiness and the need for a mediator who makes us right with Him.
The verse also points to the central role of God’s Word in our relationship with Him, just as the tablets of the law were central to the Ark. For Christians, the Bible serves as the foundation of our faith, guiding us in our walk with God and reminding us of His covenant promises.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire to dwell among His people and to provide a way for them to be in a right relationship with Him. The Ark of the Covenant, with its atonement cover, represents God’s willingness to forgive and restore His people through the sacrificial system He established. The presence of the Ark among the Israelites was a constant reminder of God’s commitment to His covenant and His loving guidance.
God’s love is also evident in the way He provides for our spiritual needs. The atonement cover points to the ultimate act of love—Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, where He shed His blood to atone for the sins of humanity. This verse reminds us that God’s love is both holy and redemptive, offering us a way to be reconciled with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The Ark of the Covenant, especially the atonement cover, points directly to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the atonement for sin. Just as the High Priest sprinkled blood on the atonement cover to atone for the sins of the people, Jesus’ blood was shed on the cross to atone for the sins of all humanity. Hebrews 9:12 tells us, “He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.”
Jesus is our mediator, the one who makes it possible for us to come into God’s presence without fear of judgment. The Ark of the Covenant, with its atonement cover, foreshadows the perfect and complete atonement that Jesus accomplished through His death and resurrection.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the description of the Ark of the Covenant and its atonement cover deepen your understanding of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?
- In what ways can you ensure that God’s Word remains central in your life, much like the tablets of the law were central to the Ark?
- How does recognizing Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the atonement cover influence your approach to worship and your relationship with God?
- What steps can you take to approach God with reverence and gratitude for the forgiveness He offers through Jesus?
- How can you incorporate the themes of God’s presence and holiness into your daily walk with Him, ensuring that your life reflects His love and grace?
This exploration of Exodus 39:35 encourages believers to reflect on the importance of God’s presence, the seriousness of sin, and the provision of atonement through Jesus Christ, who fulfills the symbolism of the Ark of the Covenant and the atonement cover.