The narrative of Moses and the Tabernacle is a profound segment of the Pentateuch, specifically within the book of Exodus, which chronicles not only the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage but also their spiritual formation as God’s chosen people. The Tabernacle, a portable earthly dwelling place for the divine presence, stands as a central symbol of this covenantal relationship. When we encounter the passage where Moses is unable to enter the Tabernacle after its completion, it prompts a deep exploration into the nature of God's holiness, the role of Moses, and the significance of the Tabernacle itself.
In Exodus 40:34-35, we read: “Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” This moment occurs at the culmination of the Israelites' efforts to construct the Tabernacle according to the precise instructions given by God. The cloud and the glory of the Lord, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, signify God’s presence dwelling among His people.
To understand why Moses could not enter, we must first consider the overwhelming holiness and majesty of God’s presence. The glory of the Lord was so intense and all-encompassing that even Moses, who had previously spoken with God face to face, was unable to enter. This illustrates a fundamental biblical principle: the holiness of God is both awe-inspiring and, at times, inaccessible to humanity. The Tabernacle was not merely a physical structure but a sacred space where heaven and earth converged. God's holiness is often depicted as a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29), and it requires a reverent and prepared approach.
The inability of Moses to enter the Tabernacle also highlights the transition in the narrative from Moses as the sole mediator between God and the people to the establishment of a priestly system. Up until this point, Moses had been the primary intermediary. However, with the completion of the Tabernacle, the Levitical priesthood, led by Aaron, Moses’ brother, would take on a more central role in mediating between God and Israel. This shift is further elaborated in the book of Leviticus, where the roles and responsibilities of the priests are detailed. The Tabernacle's completion marks a new phase in the Israelites' worship and covenant relationship with God, where the priesthood becomes essential for maintaining the sacredness and order required for worship.
Moreover, the event underscores the importance of obedience and the fulfillment of God's commands. The entire process of constructing the Tabernacle was done according to the exact specifications provided by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). The presence of God filling the Tabernacle was a divine endorsement of Israel’s obedience and dedication. It was a moment of divine approval, showing that when the people of God follow His instructions with faithfulness, His presence becomes manifest among them.
This incident also foreshadows the greater narrative of redemption and the eventual coming of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, with its rituals and sacrifices, points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who would make a way for humanity to enter into the presence of God. In the New Testament, we see that through Christ, the barriers that once separated humanity from God’s holy presence are removed. Hebrews 10:19-22 speaks to this new access: “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.”
The cloud covering the Tabernacle and Moses’ inability to enter also serves as a reminder of the mystery and transcendence of God. While God desires to dwell among His people, His ways and presence are beyond human comprehension. This mystery invites a posture of humility and reverence. It reminds believers that while God is intimately involved with His creation, He remains sovereign and beyond the confines of human understanding.
In theological reflection, this passage encourages believers to consider the nature of God’s presence in their own lives. It challenges the faithful to approach God with respect and awe, recognizing both His immanence and transcendence. The story of the Tabernacle is a call to construct spaces in our lives—physical, spiritual, and communal—where God’s presence can dwell richly.
The Tabernacle's completion and the subsequent filling of it with God's glory also emphasize the communal aspect of worship. The Israelites, under Moses' leadership, worked together to create a space where God could dwell among them. This communal effort reflects the body of Christ today, where believers are called to work together to build up the church, the spiritual dwelling place of God (Ephesians 2:19-22).
In conclusion, Moses' inability to enter the newly completed Tabernacle is a multi-faceted event rich with theological significance. It speaks to the holiness of God, the transition to a priestly system, the importance of obedience, and the foreshadowing of Christ’s redemptive work. It challenges believers to approach God with reverence and to foster communities where His presence is welcomed and celebrated. As we reflect on this passage, we are invited to deepen our understanding of God's holiness and His desire to dwell among His people, both in the ancient world and today.
