Exodus 40:35

KJV

And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} was not able {H3201} to enter {H935} into the tent {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, because the cloud {H6051} abode {H7931} thereon, and the glory {H3519} of the LORD {H3068} filled {H4390} the tabernacle {H4908}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe was unable to enter the tent of meeting, because the cloud remained on it, and the glory of ADONAI filled the tabernacle.

Berean Standard Bible

Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

American Standard Version

And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of meeting, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of Jehovah filled the tabernacle.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 40:35 powerfully concludes the Tabernacle's construction and consecration, depicting the immediate and overwhelming consequence of God's manifest presence. Following the descent of the divine cloud and the filling of the Tabernacle with the glory of the LORD, Moses, despite his unique relationship with God, was utterly unable to enter the sacred space. This verse underscores the immense holiness and unapproachable majesty of God, signifying His acceptance of the Israelites' obedience in building His dwelling place and establishing a tangible, awe-inspiring reality of His presence among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 40 marks the triumphant culmination of the Tabernacle's construction, following the detailed divine blueprints given to Moses on [Mount Sinai](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Tabernacle Instructions"). The preceding verses in [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Completion of the Tabernacle") and the initial verses of [Exodus 40](/exodus/40 "Exodus 40 - Erection and Consecration of the Tabernacle") meticulously describe the completion, assembly, and anointing of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, culminating in the setting up of the Tent of Meeting on the first day of the first month. [Exodus 40:34](/exodus/40-34 "Exodus 40:34 - The Cloud Covers the Tent") specifically states that "the cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle," immediately preceding our verse. Thus, Exodus 40:35 highlights the profound, immediate, and awe-inspiring effect of this divine indwelling, demonstrating that God's presence was not merely symbolic but a tangible, unapproachable reality. The subsequent verses, [Exodus 40:36-38](/exodus/40-36-38 "Exodus 40:36-38 - The Cloud Guides Israel"), then transition to describe the cloud's role in guiding Israel throughout their wilderness journey, establishing the Tabernacle as the center of their spiritual and physical movement.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Tabernacle, or "dwelling place," was designed as a portable sanctuary, a physical representation of God's intention to dwell among His people, Israel, as they journeyed through the wilderness. This concept of divine indwelling was revolutionary in the ancient Near East, where gods were often confined to specific temples or geographic locations. The Tabernacle, however, symbolized a mobile, intimate, and accessible (yet holy) presence of the one true God. The "cloud" and "glory" were familiar manifestations of God's presence to the Israelites, having been present with them since their exodus from Egypt, notably at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - God Appears at Sinai"), where God's glory descended and made the mountain unapproachable ([Exodus 19:16-24](/exodus/19-16-24 "Exodus 19:16-24 - God's Presence on Sinai")). The inability of Moses, God's chosen mediator and the one who had previously spoken to God "face to face" ([Exodus 33:11](/exodus/33-11 "Exodus 33:11 - Moses Speaks with God")), to enter the Tabernacle underscores the extreme holiness and transcendent nature of God. It established a clear boundary between the divine and the human, emphasizing that access to God's immediate presence required divine provision and strict adherence to His holy standards, a principle foundational to Israelite worship and law.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **God's Presence and Dwelling (Shekinah)**, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant promise to dwell among His people ([Exodus 29:45-46](/exodus/29-45-46 "Exodus 29:45-46 - God's Promise to Dwell with Israel")). It also highlights the theme of **Divine Holiness and Transcendence**, as God's glory is so overwhelming that even Moses, His intimate servant, cannot approach it without mediation. This sets the stage for the elaborate sacrificial and priestly system detailed in [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus - Laws of Holiness and Sacrifice"), which provides the divinely ordained means for sinful humanity to approach a holy God. The verse further emphasizes **Obedience and Divine Acceptance**, as the cloud and glory's descent signify God's approval of Israel's meticulous adherence to the Tabernacle blueprints. Finally, it foreshadows the ongoing need for **Mediation and Atonement**, pointing to the ultimate solution for human access to God's presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glory (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_):** From H3519, this word properly means "weight," but figuratively signifies splendor or copiousness. In a theological context, it refers to the visible, tangible manifestation of God's inherent worth, honor, splendor, and majesty. It signifies His radiant presence, power, and the awe-inspiring display of His divine attributes. When God's _kâbôwd_ fills a space, it implies an overwhelming, uncontainable, and supremely holy presence that demands reverence and often renders human access impossible due to its intensity.

* **Filled (Hebrew, _mâlêʼ'_):** From H4390, this primitive root means "to fill" or (intransitively) "to be full of," in a wide application (literally and figuratively). In Exodus 40:35, it denotes a complete saturation, indicating that the glory of the LORD permeated every part of the Tabernacle, leaving no empty space. This "filling" signifies the totality and intensity of God's indwelling presence, making the Tabernacle a crucible of divine holiness and the direct cause of its inaccessibility to Moses.

* **Tabernacle (Hebrew, _mishkân'_):** From H4908, this word means "a residence" or "dwelling place." This term emphasizes the Tabernacle's fundamental purpose as the earthly abode where the transcendent God chose to "tabernacle" or dwell among His people. It signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to reside in their midst, making His presence concrete and central to Israel's identity and journey, a portable sanctuary for a mobile people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation":** This clause highlights the profound impact of God's presence. Moses, who had previously ascended [Mount Sinai](/exodus/24 "Exodus 24 - Moses on Sinai") and communed directly with God, is now barred from entering the very structure he helped construct. This emphasizes the absolute holiness and unapproachable nature of God's glory when it fully indwells a space, establishing a clear boundary even for God's most intimate servant. It demonstrates that access to God's immediate presence is not based on human merit or even prophetic status, but on divine allowance and provision.

* **"because the cloud abode thereon":** The "cloud" is a recurring biblical motif signifying God's visible presence, often associated with His glory and guidance. Its "abiding" or resting upon the Tent of Meeting indicates a settled, continuous divine presence, not merely a fleeting visitation. This visible sign served as a constant reminder to Israel of God's immediate oversight and protection, but also His awesome, veiled majesty, providing a boundary and a visible representation of the divine presence.

* **"and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle":** This phrase describes the overwhelming, radiant manifestation of God's inherent splendor and power that permeated every part of the sacred dwelling. The "filling" implies a complete saturation, leaving no empty space, making the Tabernacle a crucible of divine holiness. It is this intense, unmediated glory that rendered the space inaccessible, underscoring God's transcendence and the sacredness of His dwelling place, a testament to His acceptance of the completed work.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 40:35 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Theophany** is central, as the "cloud" and "glory of the LORD" represent a visible, tangible manifestation of God's presence, making His indwelling a concrete reality for the Israelites. This **theophany** is not merely a sign but an active force, as it directly prevents Moses from entering. **Symbolism** is also prominent, with the cloud symbolizing God's guidance, protection, and veiled majesty, while the glory symbolizes His inherent splendor, power, and holiness. The Tabernacle itself is a powerful **symbol** of God's desire to dwell with His people. The statement that Moses "was not able to enter" due to the overwhelming presence serves as a form of **intense emphasis**, highlighting the absolute, unapproachable nature of God's holiness. It underscores the vast chasm between finite humanity and infinite divinity, even for the most privileged of God's servants, thereby cultivating **awe** and reverence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 40:35 profoundly communicates God's desire for intimate dwelling with His people, while simultaneously affirming His absolute holiness and unapproachable majesty. The inability of Moses to enter the Tabernacle, even after its perfect construction according to divine command, underscores that access to God's presence is not a right earned by human effort or obedience, but a privilege granted by divine grace and mediated through specific, holy means. This moment establishes the Tabernacle as the sacred center of Israel's life, where God's glory resides, demanding reverence and setting the stage for the sacrificial system necessary to bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. It foreshadows the ongoing need for a mediator and a perfect atonement to truly dwell in God's presence.

* [Exodus 29:43](/exodus/29-43 "God's Promise to Meet")
* [Leviticus 16:2](/leviticus/16-2 "Aaron Not to Enter Holy Place at All Times")
* [Isaiah 6:1-5](/isaiah/6-1-5 "Isaiah's Vision of God's Glory")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 40:35 offers a profound glimpse into the nature of God—His overwhelming holiness, His desire for dwelling, and the awe His presence inspires. While we no longer have a physical Tabernacle, the spiritual reality it represents is even more potent for believers today. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep sense of reverence for God, recognizing that His glory is still uncontainable and His holiness remains absolute. Our access to Him is not through a physical structure or our own merit, but through the perfect mediation of Jesus Christ. This truth should humble us, reminding us that any intimacy we share with God is purely by His grace. Furthermore, knowing that the Holy Spirit indwells believers means that our very bodies are now temples of the living God. This calls us to a life of sanctification, living in a manner worthy of the divine presence within us, honoring God in all we do, and recognizing the sacredness of our calling.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the unapproachable holiness of God, as depicted in Exodus 40:35, impact your understanding of worship and reverence today?**
* **What does it mean for God's "glory" to "fill" a space, and how might we experience or perceive God's glory in our lives now?**
* **Considering Moses' inability to enter, how does the New Testament revelation of access to God through Christ change our perspective on divine presence and our relationship with God?**

### FAQ

**What is the "cloud" and "glory of the LORD" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "cloud" and "glory of the LORD" are visible manifestations of God's presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory. The cloud (Hebrew: _ʻânân_) served as a physical, tangible sign of God's immediate presence, guidance, and protection for Israel throughout their wilderness journey, as seen from [Exodus 13:21-22](/exodus/13-21-22 "God Guides with Cloud and Fire"). The "glory of the LORD" (Hebrew: _kâbôwd Yᵉhôvâh_) refers to the radiant, awe-inspiring splendor and majesty of God Himself, a visible display of His inherent worth and power. When the glory "filled" the Tabernacle, it indicated God's complete and overwhelming indwelling, making the space intensely holy and unapproachable to human beings without divine provision.

**Why was Moses, God's chosen leader, unable to enter the Tabernacle?**

Answer: Moses was unable to enter the Tabernacle because the glory of the LORD so completely filled it that it rendered the space unapproachable for any human, even God's most intimate servant. This was not a sign of Moses' unworthiness or a punishment, but rather a powerful demonstration of God's absolute holiness and transcendence. Just as [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "God Appears at Sinai") became unapproachable when God's glory descended upon it, so too did the Tabernacle. It underscored that human beings, even those in close communion with God, cannot stand in the unmediated presence of His full glory without divine provision. This emphasizes the need for a mediator and a way for sinful humanity to approach a holy God.

**What happened after Moses was unable to enter the Tabernacle?**

Answer: Following this event, the cloud of the LORD continued to rest upon the Tabernacle by day, and a fire was in it by night. This cloud became the visible guide for the Israelites throughout their wilderness wanderings. Whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the Israelites would set out on their journey; and wherever the cloud settled, there they would camp. This continuous divine guidance, described in [Exodus 40:36-38](/exodus/40-36-38 "The Cloud Guides Israel"), confirmed that the Tabernacle was indeed God's dwelling place and the center of His people's life and movement.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 40:35, with its depiction of God's overwhelming glory filling the Tabernacle and making it unapproachable, serves as a profound foreshadowing of Christ. The Tabernacle, a temporary dwelling place for God among His people, was a shadow of the ultimate reality found in Jesus. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh") declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us," using a Greek word (ἐσκήνωσεν, _eskēnōsen_) that literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Jesus is the true Tabernacle, the ultimate meeting place where God's glory is fully revealed, not in a cloud or an earthly structure, but in human flesh. Unlike Moses, who could not enter the earthly tent, in Christ, God Himself entered human experience, making His glory approachable. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection, Jesus became the new and living way ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Access Through Christ")) by which humanity can now draw near to God's holy presence. The barrier that prevented Moses' entry was torn down by Christ's sacrifice, granting believers access to the Father by one Spirit ([Ephesians 2:18](/ephesians/2-18 "Access to the Father")). Furthermore, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit means that believers themselves become temples of the living God ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "Believers as God's Temple")), fulfilling God's desire to dwell with His people in an even more intimate way, culminating in the eternal reality of the New Jerusalem where God's "tabernacle is with men, and he will dwell with them" ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "God Dwells with Humanity")).

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

1 Kings 8:11

So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of the LORD.

Isaiah 6:4

And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.

2 Chronicles 7:2

And the priests could not enter into the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled the LORD'S house.

Leviticus 16:2

And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy [place] within the vail before the mercy seat, which [is] upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.

Revelation 15:8

And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.

2 Chronicles 5:13

It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers [were] as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up [their] voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, [saying], For [he is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever: that [then] the house was filled with a cloud, [even] the house of the LORD;

2 Chronicles 5:14

So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.