Lets Read The Bible Scripture, prayer, and peace

Lets Read The Bible Monthly Goal

Lets Read The Bible is kept free and ad free through donations. Help us cover the monthly operating cost and keep Scripture reading peaceful and accessible.

May, 2026 $5.00 / $500.00

Catholic Public Domain Version

Exodus 40:20

“And he placed the table in the tabernacle of the testimony, at the north side, beyond the veil,”

Verse Explanation

A saved explanation for Exodus 40:20.

Plain-language explanation

Exodus 40:20 describes how Moses set the table inside the tabernacle, placing it in the Holy Place “at the north side,” and “beyond the veil” (meaning it was set within the inner area separated from the outer court by the curtain/veil).

Catholic context

Many Catholics understand this as part of God’s careful order for worship: the tabernacle teaches that approaching God is not random, but has a meaningful structure. The “veil” also points to the idea that access to God is mediated through what God provides—something Christians later connect to Christ, while still respecting the Old Covenant’s own worship.

Historical background

This was the end of the tabernacle’s construction. The Israelites had been building it according to God’s instructions, and now the furniture was placed exactly where God commanded. The table of the Presence (often linked with the bread offered to God) had a specific location—on the north side—so the worship of Israel could follow the divine pattern.

Reflection

God is portrayed as a God of presence and order. Even the placement of ordinary objects in the tabernacle matters, because worship is meant to draw the heart toward God. This verse invites us to consider how we “set place” for God in our own lives—what space we give Him, and how faithfully we follow His guidance.

Practical takeaway

Ask yourself: “Where is my ‘north side’—my inner space for God?” Choose one concrete action: set aside a regular time for prayer, keep your Bible and devotional materials accessible, or simplify one distraction so you can “stay beyond the veil,” at least in the sense of focusing on God’s presence.

Prayer

Lord God, You ordered worship with care and invited Your people to draw near. Help me to place You at the center of my day. Teach me to approach You with reverence, faithfulness, and peace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.