Exodus 26:32Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In discussing the laver, it is stated: ‘Thou shalt make the laver of brass for washing, and its socket of brass, and shalt put it between the tabernacle of the congregation and between the altar.’ (Exodus 30:18) Do you understand what is meant by each of these items? Palladius responds, Not entirely; I find myself perplexed and cannot grasp its meaning. Cyril replies, I will strive to provide a clear and comprehensible explanation for each of the mentioned principles. The sacred tabernacle, Palladius, was constructed in the wilderness, consisting of two distinct areas: the inner sanctuary known as the Holy of Holies, and the adjacent area called the Holy Place.

The Tabernacle serves as a representation of the Church, and Moses is instructed that the sockets of the four pillars should be made of silver. This silver signifies the purity of the Divine word, as affirmed in Scripture: The words of the Lord are pure words, silver refined from the earth (Psalm 11:7). The silver-covered bases provide support for the four pillars of the tabernacle, reflecting how the Church's ministers, enriched with divine eloquence, exemplify the teachings of the four evangelists through both their speech and actions, serving as models for all.

The term for veil in Hebrew signifies separation, as noted by Cook, implying a sense of alienation. This veil was symbolically linked to the cherubim, similar to the fabric used at the top of the tabernacle. O. Gerlach comments that the entire sanctum, encircled by the servants of God, was designed to elevate the thoughts of both the worshipper and priest toward the enigmatic realm where Jehovah manifested in His full glory. The English-language commentary Bible references Flavius Josephus's portrayal of the tabernacle's curtain made for the Romans. Josephus omits mention of the woven cherubim and instead remarks on the flowers and other decorations incorporated into the curtain, with no living creatures depicted.