<< Previous: Introduction
Next: The Gate >>
Diagrams of the Tabernacle and Basic Layout
The tabernacle consisted of a tent-like structure (the tabernacle proper) covered by rug-like coverings for a roof, and an external courtyard (150 feet by 75 feet). The whole compound was surrounded by a high fence about 7 feet in height. The fence was made of linen hangings held by pillars.
The tent (tabernacle proper) was divided into the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. The tent was made of acacia wood boards overlaid with gold and fitted together to form the walls, measuring 45 by 15 feet. On top, four layers of curtains acted as a roof to shield the tabernacle from sun and rain: The innermost layer was woven with fine linen and embroidered with figures of cherubim (angels), the second layer was made of goat’s hair, the third layer was made of rams’ skins dyed red, and the outermost layer was made of porpoise skins. The curtains were pinned to the ground with loops and clasps.
The specific layout of the tabernacle and its courtyard is significant because it illustrates God’s prescribed way for man to approach Him.
The whole compound was surrounded by a high fence with only one entrance. A person could not simply come from any direction into the tabernacle as he pleased — he had to enter through the one gate, which was always located to the east (so that people were facing west when they entered the tabernacle — a direct opposition to the pagan sun worshippers of the day who always faced east). Upon entering the gate, he encountered the brazen altar, where he was to present his animal offering, and then hand the reigns over to the priests, who make atonement and intercession for him in the tent.
Purchase a Tabernacle Model Kit
A great visual aid for teaching about the tabernacle with adults and children.
This setup informed the Israelites that they could only come to God in the way He prescribed. There was no other way. As we will see even more clearly in the following sections, God is using the Old Testament tabernacle to tell us that we, too, must come to Him only through the way He has provided for us — Jesus Christ.
A painted tabernacle model kit showing the layout of the complete tabernacle in 1:90 scale.
This is just one of the teaching videos from GoodSeed's evangelistic book series, No Ordinary Story.
Learn more >>
What is the Tabernacle of Moses?
- Diagrams of the Tabernacle and Basic Layout
- The Gate
- The Brazen Altar
- The Laver
- The Menorah
- The Table of Showbread
- The Golden Altar of Incense
- The Ark of the Covenant and Atonement Cover
Why Study the Tabernacle of Moses?
Why the Jewish Old Testament Tabernacle?
Sunday School Lessons on the Tabernacle
BOOKS & RESOURCES
The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus
All that the Prophets have Spoken
I WANT TO LEARN
ABOUT GOODSEED
The Monthly
GoodSeed eNewsletter
Sign up to receive articles, testimonies, sneak peeks of new resources & upcoming seminars. You'll receive a PDF copy of The Tabernacle: Model of Messiah as a thank you for partnering with us.
© 2023 GoodSeed International. All rights reserved.
