Definition: And thou shalt set the altar of the burnt offering before the door of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 40:6 – it’s a really important and fascinating part of God’s plan for the Israelite people. Here's what it means in simple terms: God is telling the Israelites to build a special altar (a platform for offering) right outside the walls of the Tabernacle, which was a temporary house where God would live with his people. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Thou shalt set…” : This means you must do this. It's a command from God. “…the altar of the burnt offering…” : An altar is a special platform for making sacrifices – offerings to God. A “burnt offering” is an offering made with fire, symbolizing repentance and devotion. “…before the door of the tabernacle…” : This places the altar right in front of the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was a huge, portable house that God used to dwell among his people for forty years. It was a symbolic representation of God’s presence. “of the tent of the congregation” : This is a bit more complex. “Tent” refers to the structure of the Tabernacle – the walls and roof. “Congregation” means the Israelites, or the people God has chosen to follow. So, essentially, God is saying: "You need to build a dedicated space for making sacrifices right next to where you'll be living with God." Why was this important? It was a crucial step in establishing a special relationship between God and his chosen people. By placing the altar outside the Tabernacle, it symbolized that God’s presence wasn’t just inside the building, but also with them, in their midst. It was a way for the Israelites to feel closer to God and show their devotion through offerings. In short, it's about establishing a permanent and visible connection between God and his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss its significance in a broader context (like the Old Testament)?