Exodus 25:16 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And you shall put into the ark the testimony that I shall give you.

NIV: Then put in the ark the tablets of the covenant law, which I will give you.

NASB: You shall put into the ark the testimony which I shall give you.

CSB: Put the tablets of the testimony that I will give you into the ark.

NLT: When the Ark is finished, place inside it the stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, which I will give to you.

KJV: And thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee.

NKJV: And you shall put into the ark the Testimony which I will give you.

The word translated as "ark" is a Hebrew term that literally means a "chest," or "box." The container described here (Exodus 25:10) is meant to carry stone tablets which record God's law (Exodus 19:5–6; 24:12; 2 Chronicles 5:10). These physical objects are a testimony to God's promises. This is why this "box of the testimony" is called the "ark of the covenant."

At some point, the ark also held a jar of manna (Exodus 16:33–34) and Aaron's staff (Numbers 17:10). These items (Hebrews 9:4) were lost along with the ark when Babylon conquered Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 36:17–18). The ark is not seen again, in Scripture, until John's vision of a heavenly temple (Revelation 11:19). It seems likely that the ark has been destroyed. However, it is possible that the ark is hidden and may be found. Its purpose has been fulfilled (Hebrews 8:8–13), so it no longer serves a crucial purpose in the world.

Exodus 25:10–22 records the design of the ark of the covenant. This is a wooden box with square ends and rectangular sides overlaid with gold. Rings will be used to hold poles for carrying the ark. This box will store the written laws given by God to Israel (Exodus 24:12). The ark's lid features two golden angels facing each other with outstretched, covering wings. This "mercy seat" will be the focal point of God's interactions with Israel. Since the angels are not being worshipped, they are not the prohibited "graven images" of the second commandment (Exodus 20:4–6). Scripture never credits the ark as a source of supernatural power.

Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).

The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 7/11/2025 8:14:59 AM