Exodus 40:2

KJV

On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.

KJV (with Strong's)

On the first {H7223} day {H3117} of the first {H259} month {H2320} shalt thou set up {H6965} the tabernacle {H4908} of the tent {H168} of the congregation {H4150}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"On the first day of the first month, you are to set up the tabernacle, the tent of meeting.

Berean Standard Bible

“On the first day of the first month you are to set up the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting.

American Standard Version

On the first day of the first month shalt thou rear up the tabernacle of the tent of meeting.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 40:2 delivers the culminating divine directive for the erection of the Tabernacle, Israel's portable sanctuary, on a profoundly significant date. This command marks the triumphant conclusion of God's intricate architectural blueprints and the dedicated labor of the Israelites, signifying the imminent establishment of God's tangible, dwelling presence at the very heart of His covenant people. This pivotal moment inaugurates a new era in Israel's journey, where the divine presence would visibly guide, sanctify, and define their communal life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 40:2 functions as the climactic instruction at the very end of the Book of Exodus, bringing to fruition the extensive divine directives given since [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"). The preceding chapters meticulously detail the intricate blueprints for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as outlined in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Blueprints and Priestly Garments"), followed by a thorough account of the skilled artisans, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, faithfully executing every aspect of God's divine design in [Exodus 35-39](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35-39 - Construction of the Tabernacle"). This verse, therefore, is not merely a final command but the ultimate step in a prolonged process of divine revelation and human obedience, setting the stage for the visible and tangible dwelling of God among His chosen people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The specified date, "the first day of the first month," carries profound historical and symbolic weight. This timing places the Tabernacle's erection approximately one year after the momentous [Passover](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Exodus") and the subsequent exodus from Egyptian bondage. In the ancient Near East, the new year often symbolized new beginnings, divine favor, and the re-establishment of cosmic order. For Israel, this date marked a spiritual new year, signifying a fresh phase in their covenant relationship with Yahweh. It was a visible declaration that, despite their recent failures (e.g., the golden calf incident in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf")), God remained committed to dwelling in their midst as they prepared to embark on their journey through the wilderness, with His tangible presence as their guide and protector.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Presence and Immanence**, as God fulfills His promise to dwell among His people, making Himself accessible. It underscores the theme of **Obedience and Faithfulness**, highlighting Moses' and Israel's meticulous adherence to God's detailed instructions, a stark contrast to their earlier rebellion. The timing also emphasizes **New Beginnings and Covenant Renewal**, as the Tabernacle's inauguration marks a fresh start for the nation after the golden calf idolatry, reaffirming God's commitment to His covenant with Israel. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, as the Tabernacle served as a sacred space where the holy God could dwell amidst an unholy people, requiring specific protocols for approach and interaction, foreshadowing the need for perfect atonement.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **first (Hebrew, _riʼshôwn'_):** Derived from a root meaning "head" or "beginning," this term signifies not only chronological precedence ("first") but also preeminence and importance. In the context of "the first day of the first month," it emphasizes the inaugural and foundational nature of this event, marking a new, divinely ordained beginning for Israel's calendar and their relationship with God.
* **set up (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** This primitive root verb carries a rich array of meanings, including "to rise," "to establish," "to confirm," and "to make firm." Beyond merely assembling the structure, the command to "set up" the Tabernacle implies its permanent establishment as the central and enduring locus of God's presence among His people, signifying stability, divine authority, and the fulfillment of God's purpose.
* **tabernacle (Hebrew, _mishkân'_):** From the root _shakan_, meaning "to dwell" or "to settle," _mishkân_ literally translates to "dwelling place" or "residence." This term profoundly emphasizes the Tabernacle's primary function: to be the tangible, earthly abode where God Himself would take up residence among His people. It signifies the divine condescension and intimate presence of Yahweh in the midst of Israel, a visible sign of His covenant faithfulness.
* **tent of the congregation (Hebrew, _ʼôhel môwʻêd'_):** Literally "tent of meeting" or "tent of appointment." This phrase highlights the Tabernacle's dual role as both a portable dwelling (_ʼôhel_, "tent") and the designated place where God would "meet" (_môwʻêd_, "appointment," "fixed time," "assembly") with His people. It was the appointed location for divine revelation, communication of God's will, and the reception of Israel's worship, sacrifices, and petitions, underscoring the relational aspect of God's presence where He would interact directly with His covenant community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"On the first day of the first month":** This precise temporal marker is highly significant. It refers to the month of Abib (later Nisan), which was established as the beginning of the religious year for Israel at the time of the Passover ([Exodus 12:2](/exodus/12-2 "Exodus 12:2 - Beginning of Months")). The choice of this specific date, approximately one year after the Exodus, symbolizes a new beginning for the nation, a spiritual reset, and the inauguration of a new phase in their relationship with God, marked by His central, tangible presence.
* **"shalt thou set up":** This is a direct, imperative command from God to Moses, indicating divine authority and the necessity of precise obedience. The verb "set up" (Hebrew: _qûwm_) implies not just assembly but also establishing, erecting, and making firm. It underscores the divine authority behind the instruction and Moses' role as the faithful executor of God's will, emphasizing the importance of meticulous adherence in matters of divine worship and the establishment of God's presence.
* **"the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation":** This phrase identifies the specific sacred structure to be erected. "Tabernacle" (_mishkân_) denotes God's dwelling place, while "tent of the congregation" (_ʼôhel môwʻêd_) emphasizes its function as the designated "tent of meeting" where God would commune with His people. The combination highlights both the sacred indwelling of God and the relational purpose of His presence, providing a tangible locus for worship, atonement, and divine communication.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 40:2 employs several potent literary devices. **Symbolism** is profoundly evident in the precise timing, "the first day of the first month," which signifies a new spiritual year and a fresh beginning for Israel, aligning with their liberation from Egypt and the establishment of a new covenantal phase. The Tabernacle itself is a powerful **symbol** of God's tangible presence, His covenant faithfulness, and His desire to dwell intimately with humanity. The direct and unqualified command, "shalt thou set up," functions as a **divine imperative**, underscoring God's absolute authority and the non-negotiable necessity of human obedience in matters of worship and sacred space. Furthermore, the culmination of the meticulous detailing of the Tabernacle's construction throughout Exodus, leading to this final instruction, highlights God's attribute of **order** and His sovereign control over every minute detail of His redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 40:2 encapsulates profound theological themes, most notably God's profound desire to dwell intimately with His people. The erection of the Tabernacle was the physical manifestation of God's promise to be present in the midst of Israel, a theme that reverberates throughout the entire biblical narrative. It underscores the principle of divine initiative—God chooses to make Himself accessible—and the necessity of human obedience in establishing the conditions for that presence. This moment also signifies a new covenantal phase, where God's holiness and His people's journey are inextricably linked by His central dwelling place. It foreshadows a greater reality where God's presence will be fully realized, not in a temporary structure, but in an eternal, perfect communion.
* [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with His People")
* [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")
* [Leviticus 26:11](/leviticus/26-11 "Leviticus 26:11-12 - God's Dwelling and Covenant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 40:2 offers timeless insights for contemporary believers, inviting us to reflect on the centrality of God's presence in our lives. Just as the Tabernacle was the physical and spiritual epicenter of Israel's camp, our lives are called to be centered on God's indwelling Spirit. This requires intentionality in cultivating a relationship with Him through prayer, worship, diligent engagement with His Word, and active participation in the community of faith. Furthermore, Moses' precise obedience to the divine command serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of heeding God's instructions, whether explicitly revealed in Scripture or discerned through the Holy Spirit's guidance. The symbolism of the "first day of the first month" encourages us to embrace new beginnings, recognizing that God, in His grace, offers fresh starts and opportunities for renewed commitment and deeper intimacy, regardless of past failures or spiritual setbacks. This verse calls us to create "space" for God's presence in our daily routines and priorities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I actively make God's presence central in my daily life, akin to the Tabernacle's centrality for Israel?**
* **Where might God be calling me to a greater degree of precise obedience in my life today, particularly in areas related to worship or spiritual discipline?**
* **How can I embrace the concept of "new beginnings" with God, allowing Him to initiate fresh phases of growth, purpose, and deeper intimacy in my spiritual journey?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "first day of the first month" in Exodus 40:2?**

Answer: The "first day of the first month" held profound significance as it marked the beginning of the religious year for the Israelites, a calendar established by God at the time of the [Passover](/exodus/12-2 "Exodus 12:2 - The First Month"). This timing, approximately one year after their liberation from Egyptian bondage, symbolized a new beginning and a fresh start for the nation. It signified the inauguration of a new era in their covenant relationship with God, where His tangible presence, embodied in the Tabernacle, would now be centrally established among them, guiding their journey and sanctifying their community. It underscored God's faithfulness despite Israel's recent failures, offering a renewed opportunity for covenant communion.

**Why was the Tabernacle also referred to as "the tent of the congregation"?**

Answer: The phrase "tent of the congregation" is a translation of the Hebrew _ʼôhel môwʻêd_, which more accurately means "tent of meeting" or "tent of appointment." This designation emphasized the Tabernacle's primary function as the divinely appointed place where God would "meet" with His people. It was the designated location for Him to communicate His will, receive their worship, sacrifices, and prayers, and renew His covenant with them. It highlighted the relational aspect of God's presence, providing a specific locus for divine-human interaction, as seen in passages like [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Meeting with Moses"), where God promised to meet with Moses above the mercy seat.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 40:2, with its focus on the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place among His people, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The earthly Tabernacle, a temporary and symbolic structure, foreshadowed the greater reality of God's presence fully embodied in the person of Jesus. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us," using the Greek word _eskēnōsen_, which literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Christ is the true and perfect "tent of meeting," the ultimate place where God meets humanity, not through rituals and sacrifices performed in an earthly structure, but through His own perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the eternal High Priest who perpetually intercedes for us ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ Our Intercessor")), and the one through whom we gain access to the Father. Through Him, believers become living temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body a Temple")), and ultimately, in the new heavens and new earth, God's dwelling will be fully and eternally with His redeemed people ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with His People")), a reality made possible only through Christ's perfect fulfillment of all that the Tabernacle symbolized.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 26:30

And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.

Exodus 13:4

This day came ye out in the month Abib.

Numbers 1:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tabernacle of the congregation, on the first [day] of the second month, in the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying,

Exodus 12:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying,

Exodus 12:2

This month [shall be] unto you the beginning of months: it [shall be] the first month of the year to you.

Exodus 40:17

And it came to pass in the first month in the second year, on the first [day] of the month, [that] the tabernacle was reared up.

Exodus 40:19

And he spread abroad the tent over the tabernacle, and put the covering of the tent above upon it; as the LORD commanded Moses.