Exodus 40:35 – “Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 40:35 captures a profound moment in the narrative of Israel’s journey with God. After the Tabernacle was completed and the cloud symbolizing God’s presence had settled on it, the glory of the Lord filled the entire space so intensely that even Moses, who had been in close communion with God, could not enter the tent of meeting. This verse highlights the overwhelming holiness and glory of God, which was so powerful that even the leader of Israel, who had spoken with God face to face, was unable to approach. It emphasizes the idea that God’s presence is something utterly sacred, and it is not to be taken lightly.
Historical Context
This event takes place at the conclusion of the construction of the Tabernacle, a project that the Israelites undertook at God’s command while they were in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. The Tabernacle was designed to be a portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people as they traveled towards the Promised Land. The cloud mentioned in this verse had previously guided the Israelites through the desert, appearing as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Now, that same cloud, representing God’s presence, descended upon the Tabernacle, filling it with God’s glory to the point where even Moses could not enter.
Theological Implications
The fact that Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because of God’s overwhelming glory illustrates the concept of God’s holiness and the separateness of God from even the most righteous of humans. It reminds us that while God desires to dwell among His people, His holiness is far beyond our human capacity to fully grasp or approach on our own terms. This verse also underscores the idea that access to God is not something that can be presumed upon; it is a gift that God grants according to His will and purpose. It points to the need for a mediator—someone who can bridge the gap between God’s holiness and humanity’s sinfulness.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 40:35 serves as a climactic conclusion to the narrative of the Tabernacle’s construction. The verse is written with a stark simplicity that contrasts with the overwhelming nature of the event it describes. The use of the word “could not” in reference to Moses emphasizes the power of God’s presence and the limitations of even the greatest human leaders in the face of divine glory. The passage uses vivid imagery—the cloud, the glory filling the Tabernacle—to create a sense of awe and reverence, driving home the significance of what has just occurred.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 24:15-18 – “When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the LORD called to Moses from within the cloud.”
- 1 Kings 8:10-11 – “When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the LORD. And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled his temple.”
- Isaiah 6:1-5 – “In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple… ‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips… and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.'”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 40:35 is a powerful reminder of the holiness of God. It challenges us to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing that His presence is not something to be taken lightly. This verse also speaks to the need for humility when approaching God, acknowledging that we cannot come into His presence based on our own merits. Instead, we rely on God’s grace and the mediation of Jesus Christ to bring us into fellowship with Him. It also serves as a reminder that God’s presence is real and powerful, and it should evoke in us a deep respect and worship.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 40:35 shows that even in His overwhelming holiness, God desires to dwell among His people. While His glory is so powerful that it cannot be approached casually, the very fact that He chose to fill the Tabernacle with His presence demonstrates His love and commitment to His people. God’s love is seen in His willingness to come near to us, even though His holiness is far beyond what we can handle on our own. This verse invites us to marvel at the love of a God who is both transcendent and yet intimately involved in the lives of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The inability of Moses to enter the tent of meeting because of God’s overwhelming glory points to the need for a mediator who can stand in the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. Jesus Christ is that mediator. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provides a way for us to come into God’s presence without fear. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the one who makes it possible for us to approach God’s throne with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). The glory that filled the Tabernacle in Exodus is fully revealed in Jesus, who embodies the fullness of God’s presence among us.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does recognizing God’s holiness change the way you approach Him in prayer and worship?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of reverence in our relationship with God?
- How can we cultivate a sense of awe and respect for God’s presence in our daily lives?
- In what ways does the role of Jesus as our mediator enhance your understanding of God’s holiness?
- How can you respond to God’s overwhelming glory with humility and gratitude in your life?