The Ark of the Covenant is a sacred artifact known by various names: the
Ark of Testimony, the Atonement Ark, or even Moses' Ark. For centuries
before Christ, this ark had a special purpose, serving as a dwelling
place for YHVH's presence. Its significance remains profound, and in
this blog, I aim to reveal its deep meaning to you, the reader.
The Ark's Construction and Symbolism
The Ark is a unique architectural object. Measuring 114.3 cm in length and 68.58 cm in both width and height, it was a significant "treasure chest." Constructed entirely from acacia wood and overlaid with gold, it was a grand and holy vessel.
The lid of the Ark, known as the mercy seat or atonement cover, sealed the Ark. Atop the Ark were two cherubs, one on each end, carved from gold. These were fashioned with 40 blows, symbolizing the 40 lashes Christ received. The mercy seat was the throne of YHVH and YAHSHUA.
During the times of the Priests and Prophets, the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrificial lamb on the mercy seat. Research suggests this blood was sprinkled on the right side, possibly where the Father sat, which would appear on the left side if viewed from the front. This act is reflecting that YAHSHUA, the Lamb of YHVH, sat at the right hand of YHVH after His victory over death, symbolizing forgiveness and redemption.
The Contents of the Ark
Inside the Ark were three significant items:
1. The Tablets of the Covenant: These stone tablets, inscribed with the Ten Commandments, represented the law. Two sets existed: one carved by YHVH (Exodus 31:18) and one by Moses (Exodus 34:1). The first set was broken by Moses in anger when he saw the Israelites worshiping the golden calf. Traditional Jewish teachers believe these tablets were made of sapphire, symbolizing YHVH's throne.
2. The Golden Pot of Manna: This pot contained manna, the unique food YHVH provided for the Israelites for 40 years in the wilderness (Exodus 16:35). This manna symbolized YHVH's provision and the spiritual nourishment necessary for the Israelites' journey.
3. Aaron's Rod: Aaron's rod, which budded and produced almonds, was a miraculous symbol of YHVH's authority and choice of leadership. This rod, capable of performing miracles (Exodus 7:9, 7:19, 8:5), affirmed Aaron's priesthood during a time of rebellion among the Israelites (Numbers 17).
The Mercy Seat and Yahshua's Blood
The mercy seat covered the Ark and its contents, symbolizing forgiveness and atonement. The blood sprinkled on the mercy seat was a temporary solution for sin. In contrast, YAHSHUA, the ultimate Lamb of YHVH, provided a permanent solution through His sacrifice. The New Covenant, established by YAHSHUA's blood, surpasses the old sacrificial system.
YAHSHUA as the Bread of Life
YAHSHUA declared Himself the bread of life, fulfilling the symbolic manna in the Ark (John 6:31-38). Unlike the temporary manna, YAHSHUA offers eternal spiritual nourishment. He came from heaven to do the will of the Father, providing eternal life to those who believe in Him.
The New Covenant and the Broken Tablets
The broken tablets represent the broken law and the need for a new covenant. YAHSHUA established this new covenant, writing the law on human hearts instead of stone (2 Corinthians 3:3). The old law brought death, but the Spirit brings life (2 Corinthians 3:6). The new covenant, through YAHSHUA, offers justification and life.
YAHSHUA and Aaron's Rod
Aaron's rod symbolized YHVH's chosen leadership. Similarly, YAHSHUA is the chosen High Priest of the new covenant, perfectly fulfilling the role of mediator between YHVH and humanity. His sacrifice on the cross and His bloodshed replaced the old sacrificial system, offering permanent atonement and redemption.
The Power of YAHSHUA's Blood
The blood of YAHSHUA holds immense power and significance:
1. Purchased Possession: We are bought with YAHSHUA's precious blood, becoming YHVH's possession (Acts 20:28).
2. Redemption and Atonement: His blood brings redemption and atonement for sins, offering a permanent covering through faith (Romans 3:24-25).
3. Unity: The blood unites believers, making us one body in YAHSHUA (1 Corinthians 10:16-17).
4. Redemption: It redeems us from futile ways inherited from our forefathers, with YAHSHUA's unblemished blood being the ultimate price (1 Peter 1:18-19).
5. Cleansing: His blood cleanses and purifies us from all sin and defilement (Revelation 7:14).
The Ark and the blood of YAHSHUA reveal YHVH's consistent plan for salvation. From the Ark's contents to YAHSHUA's sacrifice, we see YHVH's order, love, and purpose. The Ark's symbolism aligns with YAHSHUA's fulfillment of the law and the establishment of the new covenant. YHVH's eternal plan for redemption through YAHSHUA remains unwavering, demonstrating His sovereignty, love, and desire for reconciliation with humanity.
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