A tabernacle is a fitting that allows the mast on a boat to be easily lowered and raised. This fitting is typically mounted on the deck or the mast itself, providing a stable and secure base for the mast during these maneuvers. Tabernacles are particularly useful on sailboats that frequently need to pass under low bridges or be transported on land. By using a tabernacle, the mast can be quickly and easily lowered, making the boat more versatile and easier to handle in various situations.
Tabernacle Definition
The word “tabernacle” has multiple meanings depending on the context:
Religious Meaning: In a religious context, a tabernacle refers to a sacred shrine or sanctuary, such as the tent used by the Israelites as a portable temple in the Old Testament. In Christian tradition, it is also a cabinet where consecrated Eucharistic bread is stored in churches.
Maritime Meaning: On boats, a tabernacle refers to a special fitting that allows the mast to be lowered and raised. This fitting is mounted on the deck, providing a stable base for the mast during maneuvers.
Ark of the Tabernacle
The Ark of the Tabernacle, also known as the Ark of the Covenant, is a significant and sacred artifact in the religious traditions of Judaism and Christianity. It is described in the Hebrew Bible as a chest that held the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments.
Here are some key aspects:
- Construction: The Ark was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. It featured a gold lid called the “Mercy Seat” with two cherubim (angelic figures) facing each other, whose wings covered the ark.
- Dimensions: According to biblical descriptions, the Ark was approximately 2.5 cubits long, 1.5 cubits wide, and 1.5 cubits high (about 45 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 27 inches high).
- Ten Commandments: The primary contents were the two stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
- Additional Items: According to the Letter to the Hebrews in the New Testament, the Ark also contained Aaron’s rod that budded and a pot of manna.
- Divine Presence: The Ark was considered the earthly dwelling place of God’s presence and a symbol of His covenant with the Israelites.
- Holy of Holies: It was placed in the innermost part of the Tabernacle, known as the Holy of Holies. Only the High Priest could approach it, and only once a year on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement).
- Portable Sanctuary: The Tabernacle itself was a portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them during their wanderings in the desert.
- Solomon’s Temple: Eventually, the Ark was housed in Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem, signifying a permanent home for the divine presence.
- Cultural Impact: The Ark has inspired numerous cultural references and has been a subject of fascination in various religious, historical, and even popular cultural contexts.
- Mystery and Legend: Its whereabouts after the destruction of the First Temple are unknown, leading to many legends and theories about its fate.
The Ark of the Tabernacle remains one of the most profound symbols of faith and divine covenant in the Judeo-Christian tradition.