Exodus 27 continues the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, focusing on the construction of the altar for burnt offerings and the design of the courtyard that will enclose the sacred space.
The Altar of Burnt Offering
The chapter begins with the specifications for the altar.
1. Materials and Dimensions: The altar is to be made of acacia wood, covered with bronze. It is to be square, 5 cubits long and 5 cubits wide, and 3 cubits high. It will have horns on the four corners, also covered with bronze.
2. Utensils: A set of utensils for the altar is also specified, all made of bronze: pots for the ashes, shovels, basins, meat forks, and fire pans. These were used to manage the offerings and clean the altar.
3.Grill: A bronze grating, or "grill," is to be made for the altar, and it is to be placed under the ledge of the altar.
4. Portability: The altar is designed to be carried, with poles of acacia wood covered in bronze to be inserted into rings on the sides. This ensures it can be transported with the rest of the Tabernacle during the Israelites' travels.
The Tabernacle Courtyard
After the altar, God provides instructions for the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle.
1. Size and Structure: The courtyard is to be rectangular, 100 cubits long on the north and south sides, and 50 cubits wide on the east and west sides. The walls are to be made of curtains of fine twisted linen.
2. Pillars: The linen curtains are to be hung from bronze pillars, with silver hooks and rings. There will be twenty pillars on the north side, twenty on the south, ten on the west, and ten on the east.
3. The Courtyard Gate: The entrance to the courtyard is to be on the east side. It will be a screen of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine twisted linen. It will be 20 cubits wide and will hang from four pillars. The gate would be the only way to enter the sacred complex.
Oil for the Lamps
The final section of the chapter returns to the Lampstand from a previous chapter.
1. Pure Olive Oil: God commands the Israelites to bring pure, beaten olive oil to Moses.
2. Purpose: This oil is to be used to keep the lamps burning continually in the Tent of Meeting, specifically in the Holy Place, before the veil. This duty is to be carried out by Aaron and his sons, serving as a perpetual ordinance for all generations.

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