Exodus 26:33Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The sacred space serves as a reflection of the past, where sacrifices achieved everything, while the holy of holies represents the current reality of the New Testament. The apostle refers to the holy of holies as encompassing both heaven and the heavenly veil, in addition to the flesh of Christ that penetrates that veil: “He hath revealed to us,” he states, “through the veil, that is, His flesh” (Heb. 10:20). Moses, the revered servant of God and leader of the prophets, who partook in miraculous deeds such as walking on water and guiding the people in the desert, provided manna for sustenance and delivered the commandments. This esteemed figure established the tabernacle for the Israelites according to the divine pattern revealed to him on the mountain.

Of this, we understand in the following way; concerning the basin, 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 grasp what is being conveyed about each item? Palladius. Not entirely; I find myself confused and cannot discern its meaning. Cyril. To each of the presented principles, I will offer a clear and comprehensible explanation as best I can. The sacred tabernacle was constructed in the wilderness with a twofold design and structure: one portion was the inner tabernacle known as the Holy of Holies, and the adjacent section was referred to as the Holy Place.

The vision must align with its designation, where each element observed should lead to a perspective that unveils the magnificent illustration. The great Apostle remarks that the veil of the tabernacle in the earthly realm is represented by flesh (Hebrews 10:20), likely due to its composition from the four primal elements. It seems plausible that when the Apostle experienced a glimpse of the tabernacle and ascended into the celestial sanctuaries, the mysteries of paradise were unveiled to him through the Spirit. Therefore, it is beneficial to consider this interpretation carefully and align our understanding of the tabernacle to its specific components.

The highest form of contemplation, which is the reflection on the Creator, is symbolized by the tabernacle situated in the Holy of Holies, positioned directly opposite the entrance. The three curtains found within the Tabernacle were made of fine linen and scarlet, as noted in Scripture: “of fine linen, and scarlet, and scarlet spun.... and of fine linen” (Ex. 36:37). One curtain was placed before the Holy of Holies, another at the entrance of the Tabernacle, and the third at the entrance to the court. These curtains embody Immanuel because, through Him, those who have become partakers of the sacrament are elevated to the contemplation of the Divine Nature, as our Lord proclaimed that He is the door (John 10:7): the inner door for those who are perfected.

The tabernacle serves as a representation of all of creation. Just as the Almighty Creator fashioned the heavens and the earth, extending the sky that separates the upper from the lower realms, He instructed the construction of a tabernacle measuring thirteen cubits in length and ten cubits in width. By placing a veil in the center, mirroring the firmament, He divided the tabernacle into two sections. The area closest to the entrance was designated as holy, while the inner section behind the veil was referred to as the holy of holies.

The prophet declares that the tops of the gates trembled at the sound of those who cried out, as noted in Isaiah 6:4. This is indicative of the temple's veil, which concealed the ark of the covenant, representing the Virgin Mary. It reveals the truth to me, allowing me to understand the importance of reverencing and worshiping with humility and respect the sacrament that is with You. Simultaneously, I may be restrained from approaching with audacity the profound contemplation of Him who transcends all understanding by observing the shadows of the law.

The Temple was divided from the inner sanctuary by a curtain, and the area behind the altar, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, was referred to as the Holy of Holies. The Church exists in two states: one is the journey on earth, distanced from the Lord, while the other is the fellowship with the Lord who reigns in heaven. The middle wall symbolizes heaven itself, while the Ark of the Covenant represents the Lord, who, being the sole possessor of the Father's hidden truths, traversed the profound realms of heaven.