So the tabernacle was set upThe tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. Its construction was commanded by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (
Exodus 25:8-9). The tabernacle was a central element of Israelite worship and symbolized God's presence with His people. It was meticulously designed with specific materials and dimensions, reflecting the holiness and order of God. The setting up of the tabernacle marked the completion of a significant phase in Israel's journey, as it provided a tangible place for worship and sacrifice.
on the first day of the first month
This timing is significant as it aligns with the beginning of the religious calendar for the Israelites, which was established at the time of the Exodus from Egypt (Exodus 12:2). The first month, known as Nisan or Abib, was a time of renewal and new beginnings, symbolizing liberation and the start of a new life for the Israelites. The setting up of the tabernacle on this day underscores the theme of new beginnings and God's faithfulness in establishing His covenant with His people.
of the second year
The reference to the second year indicates that this event took place one year after the Israelites' departure from Egypt. During this year, the Israelites received the Law at Mount Sinai, constructed the tabernacle, and organized themselves as a community under God's guidance. The completion of the tabernacle in the second year marks a transition from the initial phase of liberation to a period of establishing a structured community centered around worship and obedience to God. This timing also highlights the Israelites' journey from slavery to becoming a nation with a distinct identity and purpose.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
MosesThe leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. Moses is responsible for overseeing the construction and setup of the tabernacle as instructed by God.
2.
The TabernacleA portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to the divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
3.
The IsraelitesThe chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now in the wilderness, preparing to enter the Promised Land.
4.
The WildernessThe setting where the Israelites are journeying after their exodus from Egypt. It is a place of testing, learning, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.
5.
The First Day of the First MonthThis marks a new beginning for the Israelites, symbolizing a fresh start and the establishment of God's presence among His people through the tabernacle.
Teaching Points
Obedience to God's InstructionsThe setting up of the tabernacle as per God's command demonstrates the importance of obedience in our relationship with God. Just as Moses followed God's detailed instructions, we are called to live according to His Word.
God's Presence Among His PeopleThe tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our bodies His temple. We should live in a way that honors His presence.
New Beginnings and RenewalThe timing of the tabernacle's setup on the first day of the first month signifies new beginnings. In Christ, we are offered a fresh start and continual renewal through His grace.
The Importance of Community WorshipThe tabernacle served as a central place of worship for the Israelites. Similarly, gathering with fellow believers for worship is vital for spiritual growth and community.
Preparation for Future PromisesThe Israelites' journey and the establishment of the tabernacle were preparatory steps for entering the Promised Land. In our lives, God often prepares us through various experiences for the fulfillment of His promises.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 40:17?
2.How does Exodus 40:17 demonstrate obedience to God's specific instructions for the Tabernacle?
3.What significance does the timing "first month of the second year" hold?
4.How can we ensure our worship spaces honor God as in Exodus 40:17?
5.In what ways does Exodus 40:17 connect to God's covenant with Israel?
6.How can we apply the dedication shown in Exodus 40:17 to our lives today?
7.How does Exodus 40:17 relate to the historical accuracy of the Exodus narrative?
8.What archaeological evidence supports the events described in Exodus 40:17?
9.Why is the specific date in Exodus 40:17 significant in biblical chronology?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 40?
11.Exodus 37:1–9: How could ancient desert nomads craft such detailed cherubim from pure gold with the tools and resources supposedly available?
12.Numbers 9:1-2: How can we verify historically the timing of the second Passover in the second year after leaving Egypt when there is limited supporting evidence?
13.Exodus 40:16 - Why do other sections of the Bible emphasize different instructions for the same Tabernacle setup, creating apparent inconsistencies?
14.Exodus 12:40 - How do we reconcile the stated 430-year sojourn in Egypt with genealogies or other biblical timelines that seem shorter?What Does Exodus 40:17 Mean
So- This small word tiesExodus 40:17 to the detailed obedience of Moses and Israel recorded in 40:1-16. Everything God commanded “they did” (Exodus 39:42-43; 40:16), so the verse opens with a confident conclusion.
- It reminds us that God’s plans reach completion—“So shall My word be…” (Isaiah 55:11).
- In Christ we see the same divine follow-through: “Therefore, holy brothers… Jesus was faithful to Him who appointed Him” (Hebrews 3:1-2).
the tabernacle- The portable sanctuary where God chose to dwell “in the midst” of His people (Exodus 25:8).
- It foreshadows the Incarnation: “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14).
- Its very presence proclaimed hope: “Behold, God’s dwelling place is with man” (Revelation 21:3).
- Built exactly “according to the pattern” (Exodus 25:40), it underlines the sufficiency of God’s design for fellowship.
was set up- Moses “erected the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:18), finishing a year-long project of craftsmanship, giving visible form to God’s instructions.
- A once-for-all act—no halfway measures: much like Jesus crying, “It is finished” (John 19:30).
- The orderly assembly models the Church, “being fitted together… a dwelling place for God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:20-22).
-Hebrews 8:5 notes that the earthly tent reflects a heavenly reality, stressing both precision and permanence of God’s covenant work.
on the first day- A deliberate new-beginning marker. The same phrase announces Noah’s renewed earth (Genesis 8:13) and Christ’s resurrection morning (Mark 16:2).
- God loves fresh starts—“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
- Placing the tabernacle’s debut on Day 1 shows that worship and God’s presence belong at the very start of life’s calendar.
of the first month- The month of Aviv/Nisan, established at the Exodus: “This month is to be the first month of the year” (Exodus 12:2).
- It frames the tabernacle within redemption history—Passover would occur mid-month (Leviticus 23:5), keeping deliverance and worship inseparable.
-Numbers 9:1-5 records Israel observing the first anniversary Passover in this same month, under the shadow of the newly raised tent.
of the second year- Counting from the Exodus (Exodus 19:1;Numbers 1:1), twelve full months have passed. God’s faithfulness has carried Israel from slavery to structured worship.
- The verse signals transition: soon the cloud will lift, guiding the nation toward Canaan (Numbers 10:11-13).
- It also highlights growth—one year to move from redemption to organized service, mirroring the believer’s call to mature (Hebrews 5:12-14).
- Thus,Exodus 40:17 stamps a date on covenant progress: salvation, then sanctification, then onward mission.
summaryExodus 40:17 records more than a calendar note; it celebrates God’s faithfulness and Israel’s obedience. The dwelling God designed is now standing, raised on the very first day of the new religious year, exactly one year after deliverance began. Worship is positioned at the center of Israel’s timeline, forecasting the finished work of Christ and the Church’s calling to become God’s living tabernacle.
THE UPREARING OF THE TABERNACLE.
(17)On the first day of the month . . . the tabernacle was reared up.--The Tabernacle was so constructed as to be capable of being rapidly both put together and taken to pieces. The erection of the framework, and the stretching upon it of the fine linen and goats'-hair coverings, must have been the main difficulty. But the family of Abraham had been familiar with tent life from the time of its quitting Ur of the Chaldees to the descent into Egypt, and its location in Egypt on the borders of the desert, in close neighbourhood to various nomadic races, had kept up its familiarity with tents, their structure, and the most approved methods of pitching and striking them. Thus it is not surprisiug that the first erection was completed in less than a day.
Verses 17-33. -
The actual setting up of the tabernacle.
Verse 17. -
On the first day the tabernacle was reared up. Being constructed after the fashion of a tent, it was quite possible to rear up and also to take down, the tabernacle in less than a day.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Soוַיְהִ֞י(way·hî)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961:To fall out, come to pass, become, bethe tabernacleהַמִּשְׁכָּֽן׃(ham·miš·kān)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4908:A residence, the Tabernaclewas set upהוּקַ֖ם(hū·qam)Verb - Hofal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6965:To arise, stand up, standon the firstבְּאֶחָ֣ד(bə·’e·ḥāḏ)Preposition-b | Number - masculine singular
Strong's 259:United, one, firstdayלַחֹ֑דֶשׁ(la·ḥō·ḏeš)Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2320:The new moon, a monthof the firstהָרִאשׁ֛וֹן(hā·ri·šō·wn)Article | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 7223:First, in place, time, rankmonthבַּחֹ֧דֶשׁ(ba·ḥō·ḏeš)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2320:The new moon, a monthof the secondהַשֵּׁנִ֖ית(haš·šê·nîṯ)Article | Number - ordinal feminine singular
Strong's 8145:Second (an ordinal number)year.בַּשָּׁנָ֥ה(baš·šā·nāh)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8141:A year
Links
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OT Law: Exodus 40:17 It happened in the first month (Exo. Ex) 
