Exodus 40:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 40:21
21 And he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and set up the vail of the covering, and covered the ark of the testimony; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Chapter Context
Exodus 40 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, creation, faith. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 40:21
21 And he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and set up the vail of the covering, and covered the ark of the testimony; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Analysis
The veil (פָּרֹכֶת, parokhet) screening the ark creates the Most Holy Place (קֹדֶשׁ הַקֳּדָשִׁים, qodesh haQodashim, Holy of Holies), separating God's immediate presence from sinful humanity. The verb סָכַךְ (sakhakh, covered/screened) emphasizes protective barrier—sin cannot approach holiness without mediation. Only the high priest entered, once yearly with blood (Leviticus 16), prefiguring Christ's entry 'once for all' (Hebrews 9:12, ἐφάπαξ). The veil's tearing at Christ's death (Matthew 27:51) opened permanent access through His torn body (Hebrews 10:19-20).
Historical Context
The veil, elaborately woven with cherubim (Exodus 26:31), was thick enough to prevent accidental viewing of the ark. Its durability meant the high priest's body torn when dragged through if God struck him dead—hence Rabbinic tradition (unbiblical) of a rope tied to his ankle. The veil's function taught that casual approach to God meant death.
Reflection
- How does the veil's thick barrier teach the gravity of sin separating humanity from God?
- What does Christ's torn veil-body providing permanent access reveal about His sufficient sacrifice?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Witness: Exodus 26:33, 40:3
- Parallel theme: Exodus 35:12