“And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, within and without shalt thou overlay it, and shalt make upon it a crown of gold round about.”
To gain a better understanding of this verse, it’s helpful to examine the context and significance of the Ark of the Covenant within the broader narrative of the book of Exodus.
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that housed the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, which were given to Moses by God on Mount Sinai. It was also considered the dwelling place of God’s presence among the Israelites as they journeyed through the wilderness. The instructions for constructing the Ark were provided to Moses as part of the detailed specifications for the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell.
Exodus 25:10-11:God instructs Moses to overlay the Ark with pure gold, both inside and out, and to make a crown or molding of gold around it. The use of pure gold, known for its value and beauty, emphasizes the sacredness and significance of the Ark as a representation of God’s presence and the covenant relationship between God and His people.
The overlaying of the Ark with gold inside and out highlights the importance of the inner and outer aspects of the covenant. The external appearance symbolizes the glory and majesty of God’s presence:which was to be displayed before the people. The internal overlaying with gold emphasizes the purity and holiness required in approaching God and the importance of the covenant being internalized within the hearts of the Israelites.
The crown or molding of gold around the Ark signifies its status as a royal object, representing God’s authority:and reign over His people. It serves as a visual reminder of God’s sovereignty and His covenant with the Israelites.
From a broader theological perspective, the Ark of the Covenant foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ. Just as the Ark contained the tablets of the Law, Jesus came to fulfill the Law and establish a new covenant between God and humanity through His sacrificial death and resurrection. Jesus, the perfect and sinless Savior, embodies the purity and holiness represented by the overlaying of gold.
