25:1ff Chapters 25 through 31 record God’s directions for building the Tabernacle. Chapters 35 through 39 tell how these instructions were carried out. But what can all these ancient, complicated construction details show us today? First, the high quality of the precious materials making up the Tabernacle shows God’s greatness and transcendence. Second, the veil surrounding the Most Holy Place shows God’s moral perfection as symbolized by his separation from the common and unclean. Third, the portable nature of the Tabernacle shows God’s desire to be with his people as they traveled. Fourth, the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the service performed there provide a picture of the atonement that would one day come through Jesus Christ.
25:10 Much of the Tabernacle and its furniture was made of shittim wood, more commonly known as acacia wood. Acacia trees flourished in barren regions and were fairly common in Old Testament times. The wood was brownish-orange and very hard, making it an excellent material for furniture. Acacia wood is still used in furniture making today.
25:17 The cover of the Ark of the Covenant was called the mercy seat. This is where, between the two golden cherubim (mighty angels), the presence of God would dwell in a cloud above their outstretched wings. The mercy seat was where the highest and most perfect act of atonement would be made when the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place on the Day of Atonement to atone for the sins of all the people (30:10).