Exodus 40:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 40:2
2 On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.
Chapter Context
Exodus 40 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 40:2
2 On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.
Analysis
God commands Moses to erect the tabernacle 'on the first day of the first month' (בְּאֶחָד לַחֹדֶשׁ הָרִאשׁוֹן, be'echad laChodesh haRishon). This date marks a new beginning—the first month (Abib/Nisan) is Israel's redemption month (Exodus 12:2), and the first day signifies inauguration. Nearly one year after Exodus (19:1), the tabernacle's erection signals covenant completion. The specific date teaches that God orders redemptive history precisely; nothing is random. This 'new year' dedication prefigures Christ's resurrection establishing the new covenant (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:15).
Historical Context
The first month's first day marked the anniversary month (not exact day) of Israel's Exodus from Egypt. This deliberate timing connected the tabernacle's completion to redemption—God's dwelling among His people flows from His saving work. The precision demonstrates God's sovereignty over history's calendar.
Reflection
- What does God specifying the exact dedication date teach about His sovereignty over redemptive history?
- How does the tabernacle's 'first day of first month' dedication parallel Christ's new covenant inauguration?
Cross-References
- Temple: Exodus 26:30, Numbers 1:1, 7:1
- Parallel theme: Exodus 13:4