“And it came to pass on the day that Moses had fully set up the tabernacle, and had anointed it, and sanctified it, and all the instruments thereof, both the altar and all the vessels thereof, and had anointed them, and sanctified them;”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and focuses on the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. In Numbers 7, we find a detailed account of the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the dedication of the tabernacle.
Setting up the Tabernacle:The verse begins by stating that it happened on the day when Moses fully set up the tabernacle. The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary, a dwelling place for God, where the Israelites worshiped and offered sacrifices. It was constructed according to God’s instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). Setting up the tabernacle involved assembling its various parts and anointing and sanctifying them.
Anointing and Sanctifying:The verse mentions that Moses anointed and sanctified both the tabernacle and its instruments. Anointing with oil was a symbolic act of consecration, signifying the setting apart of objects or individuals for holy purposes. By anointing the tabernacle and its vessels, Moses was dedicating them to God’s service and indicating their separation for sacred use.
Significance:The act of anointing and sanctifying the tabernacle and its instruments emphasized their sacredness and highlighted the presence of God among the Israelites. It also demonstrated the importance of following God’s instructions precisely and treating the place of worship with reverence and respect.
Application:While the tabernacle and its rituals were specific to the Israelites’ worship in the Old Testament, there are lessons we can draw from this verse. It reminds us of the significance of preparing and dedicating ourselves for God’s service. Just as the tabernacle was set apart for worship, we are called to consecrate our lives, thoughts, and actions to God. We should strive to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness and to honor Him with all that we do.
In summary, Numbers 7:1 highlights the dedication of the tabernacle by Moses. It underscores the importance of consecrating ourselves and our activities to God, just as the tabernacle and its instruments were anointed and sanctified for holy use.
