The Tabernacle Hermeneutic: Mosaic permission from Ex 25:40 to behold Christ

Ex 25:40 is a hermeneutic used by Moses which gives the reader permission to behold Christ and “heavenly things” (τῶν ἐπουρανίων) in the tabernacle instructions (Ex 25-40). This Mosaic hermeneutic is highlighted by the author of Hebrews (Heb 8:5). The overwhelming textual and thematic connections between the tabernacle instructions and the creation account (Gen 1-3) demonstrates that this tabernacle hermeneutic (Ex 25:40) may be useful in other contexts in the Pentateuch. This tabernacle hermeneutic should be used on passages that share words, plot, and ceremonial practices with the tabernacle instructions. The use of “horn” (qeren) is analyzed in each major genre of the Pentateuch: law code, narrative, and poetry. Employing the tabernacle hermeneutic in these “horn” texts demonstrates several areas where Moses gives the reader permission to behold Christ and heavenly things just as in the tabernacle instructions. The three delimitations of shared words, plot, and practices are analyzed demonstrating weaknesses to consider and strengths to improve upon. The tabernacle hermeneutic of Ex 25:40 should be used on other Old Testament texts that meet the delimitations. This grants the reader Mosaic permission to behold Christ in the Pentateuch.