The Spectrum of Spiritual Themes in the Tabernacle and in the Church
In this article the spiritual meaning of the vessels in the tabernacle is associated with a direction of view. The ark of the covenant symbolizes the holiness of God therefore its direction of view is vertically upwards. The showbread table represents the human level – horizontal. In contrast to the sacrifices the bread was eaten completely by the priests. The animals for sacrifice were slaughtered in a place north of the altar of burnt offerings. This location beside the six vessels of the tabernacle is also of importance. Its symbolic direction of view is vertically down against sin. The direction of view of the other vessels result from a superimposition of two of the main directions. The altar of burnt offerings is mainly related to sin but also to the sinful human. The seven petitions of the Lord’s prayer represent the same directions of view. The seven spiritual directions of view are compared to the seven spectral colours of white light. When all spectral colours are superimposed in balanced intensity this results in white light. Corresponding all seven spiritual themes must be present in balance in the life of a Christian and in the Church to please our Lord.