The Outer Court was the first area a person would enter. Surrounded by a linen fence, it was a large, open-air space where sacrifices were made for the atonement of sin. It represented the accessible presence of God for all people.

• The Altar of Burnt Offering: A bronze altar where animal sacrifices were made. This represented the required sacrifice for sin.
• The Bronze Laver: A large basin of water for the priests to wash their hands and feet. This represented the need for cleansing and purification before serving God.

The Holy Place was a large tent structure, accessible only to the priests. It was the place of daily ministry and represented a closer, more intimate communion with God.

• The Table of Showbread: A golden table with twelve loaves of bread, representing God’s provision for the twelve tribes of Israel.
• The Golden Lampstand: A pure gold lampstand with seven branches, providing light for the Holy Place. This represented God’s eternal light and guidance.
• The Altar of Incense: A small golden altar where incense was burned, creating a sweet aroma. This represented the prayers of God’s people ascending to Him.

The Holy of Holies was the innermost and most sacred part of the Tabernacle, separated by a thick veil. Only the High Priest could enter this space, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement. It represented the very throne room of God’s presence.

• The Ark of the Covenant: A gold-covered wooden chest containing the two stone tablets of the Law, Aaron’s staff, and a pot of manna.
• The Mercy Seat: A gold lid covering the Ark, where God’s presence was said to dwell. It was here that the blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled on the Day of Atonement.