Exodus 27 - Printer Friendly

Much of the book of Exodus records God's designs for His sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). Prior chapters explained how to construct the main building (Exodus 26) and several accessory objects (Exodus 25). These are all to be made precisely to the given dimensions.

The first object seen when entering the tabernacle courtyard was a large bronze altar (Exodus 40:29). This is a wooden frame overlaid with bronze. The altar is a square 7.5 feet, or about 230 centimeters, on each side, and 4.5 feet tall, or about 140 centimeters. Halfway up the inside of the altar is a bronze grating. Four "horns" protrude, one on each corner. The altar is carried with bronze-covered poles. All the utensils for the altar are also made of bronze (Exodus 27:1–8).

The courtyard of the tabernacle is a large rectangular field. The wall surrounding this space is about 75 by 150 feet, or 23 by 46 meters, and 7.5 feet, or 230 centimeters, in height. This is half the height of the tabernacle walls themselves (Exodus 26:15–16). The long walls are each made of fifty bronze poles supporting a linen hanging. The western wall, behind the tabernacle, has ten of these poles (Exodus 27:9–12).

On the eastern side, the tabernacle court has only six bronze pillars and linen hangings. The other 30 feet, or 9 meters, are covered by a screen. This is made of finely worked linen and yarn hung from four pillars. Bronze tent pegs will hold these various elements in place (Exodus 27:13–19).

An ornate lampstand (Exodus 25:31) stood inside the tabernacle. This kept burning constantly using a supply of pure olive oil. Care of these lights fell to Aaron (Exodus 6:20; 7:7) and his sons. This family will form the hereditary priesthood (Exodus 28:1; 30:30) of the nation of Israel (Exodus 27:20–21).

Exodus 27:1–8 records the construction of a bronze sacrificial altar. Israel is to make this of acacia wood overlaid with bronze. Four "horns" protrude from the corners. A grating sits inside and halfway up the altar's height. This altar is carried with bronze-coated poles. This will be known as the "altar of burnt offering" (Leviticus 4:7; 16:18) and placed directly inside the courtyard of the tabernacle.

Exodus 27:9–19 details the outdoor courtyard surrounding the tabernacle (Exodus 26). This space is 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide with walls 5 cubits tall. The walls are sheets of linen. These are suspended from bronze posts with silver hooks. The east border is the same except for an opening 20 cubits wide, covered by a linen curtain suspended from four pillars.

The Lord is describing the sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9) and sacred objects which Israel is to build. Chapter 25 included the ark, a sacred table, and a lampstand. Chapter 26 described the tabernacle itself, made of wooden scaffolds, linen, and animal skins. This passage depicts the bronze altar, courtyard walls, and lamp oil. Future chapters will discuss priestly concerns, an incense altar, and other regulations.

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.