Exodus 25:8

Context of Exodus 25:8

The command in Exodus 25:8 is given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, immediately following the giving of the Ten Commandments and the establishment of the covenant with Israel. This verse marks the beginning of a detailed section (Exodus 25-31) outlining the precise instructions for building the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the garments for the priests. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, was to be the central place of worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence among His people as they journeyed through the wilderness. It was a divine initiative, not a human one, signifying God's desire to maintain a close relationship with His chosen nation.

Key Themes

• God's Desire for Presence: The primary message is God's profound desire to "dwell among them." This demonstrates His immanence and willingness to be close to humanity, not remaining distant and unapproachable. The Tabernacle served as the physical manifestation of this divine presence.
• A Holy Dwelling Place: The term "sanctuary" (Hebrew: miqdash) emphasizes holiness. It was to be set apart exclusively for God, reflecting His sacred nature and the reverence required in His presence. The meticulous details given for its construction underscored its unique purpose.
• Covenant Relationship: The construction of the Tabernacle was an integral part of the covenant established at Sinai. By dwelling among them, God reaffirmed His commitment to Israel as His people, providing a means for them to approach Him, offer sacrifices, and receive His guidance and blessings.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "sanctuary" is מִקְדָּשׁ (miqdash), derived from the root קָדַשׁ (qadash), meaning "to be holy" or "to be set apart." Thus, a miqdash is literally a "holy place" or a "set-apart place." The phrase "that I may dwell among them" uses the verb שָׁכַן (shakan), which means "to settle down," "to abide," or "to dwell." This is the root word from which the term "Shekinah" is derived, often used to describe the visible glory or presence of God. It signifies a settled, intimate, and continuous presence, not just a fleeting visit.

Significance and Application

Exodus 25:8 lays a foundational truth that reverberates throughout Scripture: God desires to dwell with His people.

• Foreshadowing Christ: The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, pointed to a greater reality. The ultimate fulfillment of God dwelling among humanity is found in Jesus Christ, who is called "the Word made flesh, and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). He is Emmanuel, "God with us."
• The Church as God's Dwelling: In the New Testament, believers, individually and collectively, become the spiritual dwelling place of God through the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 3:16 asks, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" This means God's presence is not confined to a physical building but resides in His people.
• Future Hope: The theme culminates in the vision of the New Jerusalem, where "the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them" (Revelation 21:3). This speaks to a future reality of perfect communion with God.

For believers today, Exodus 25:8 serves as a powerful reminder of God's enduring desire for relationship and His accessible presence. It calls us to live in a manner that honors Him as our dwelling place, making our lives a sanctuary for His Spirit.