The Tabernacle was also known as the Tent of the Congregation or the Tent of the Meeting, and was supposedly the earthly dwelling place of Yahweh (the God of Israel). It was used by the Israelites from after they left Egypt until the time of Solomon, when he built Solomon’s Temple.

The innermost portion was called The Holy of Holies, and contained the Ark of the Covenant. It was separated from the rest of the Tabernacle by a veil suspended by four pillars. Just outside it was the Holy Place, which contained the golden lampstand, the Menorah. It also contained the showbread, as well as the golden altar of incense. The ark of the Covenant stored Moses’ 2 Stone Tablets on which were written the ten commandments, as well as Aaron’s staff that budded, and a golden urn containing manna.

Twice a day, a priest will stand outside and burn incense at the altar. Besides the Levites, anyone who went near the Tabernacle was ordered to be put to death.

The Holy of Holies itself could only be entered by the High Priest, and then only once a year, on the Day of Atonement.