NOTES for Exo 25:1-40
The detailed description of lampstands, chests, tables, and golden ornaments appears excessive. Yet in this the seriousness of the people's formation is shown. They are separated from the other peoples, set apart as a special portion. They are united around the tablets of the Covenant, joined together by the presence of God. The mystery of this shared being of humanity and God cannot be conveyed in words. The invisible expresses itself in the visible and concrete manifestations of Israel's religious ordinances. Service to God becomes the people's main task and the goal of their life.