The Tabernacle in the Wilderness
The plans for the design of the Tabernacle were given to Moses in Exodus. The details are specific.
In 1999, our friend Dr Randall Smith undertook an incredible project: Construct a replica of the Tabernacle on a property in the Judean wilderness near the Dead Sea and Jericho. He procured his materials from local Bedouin craftsmen, had goldsmiths from Euro Disney make the Ark, and opened the Wilderness Tabernacle Study Center in 2000.
For many years, Bible students have experience this graphic visual of how to approach God....
It all begins with a cleansing at the "Bronze Laver" located in the courtyard. Being cleansed is an important part of the process of meeting with God.
The sacrifice of animals was required for the "atonement" of sin. Here is the spot where the animals were prepared for the sacrifice. Sharp knives were required! The animals were hung on the hooks, their blood drained, and parts were cut off for the food for the priests.
The bronze altar was where the animals were brought to for the sacrifice. A payment for sin was required before an audience with God,
Inside the tent of meeting was the 7 candle menorah. This was to symbolize "The Light of the World", which Jesus later used to describe hmnself.
Here was the table of the shew bread, where somne of the manna was stored. This was a remoinder of God's provision.
The incense altar was a visual of our prayers going up to God like the smoke of the incense.
Finally, the Ark was the place where the sin issue was resolved, here at the Mercy Seat.
