The Tabernacle, the Priesthood and the Offerings

This book is part of Ritchie’s Classic Reprint Series of publications and, as the title suggests, is split into three sections. The first section, which considers the Tabernacle, concentrates upon the structure itself, meditating upon such matters as the curtains, the coverings, and the court, among others. The vessels of the Tabernacle were the subject of a separate volume. The second section, covering the priesthood is most detailed, particularly in respect to the typical significance of the jewels that formed the priest’s breastplate. The final section is not a standard consideration of the offerings but gives space to reflect upon a variety of subjects such as the Day of Atonement, the sprinkling of the blood upon the mercy seat, and the scapegoat.

Being a classic, the reader should not expect light reading. This is a book to be read alongside the scriptures, to which it makes many references. This reviewer first obtained a copy of this work over thirty years ago but only came to appreciate its value when studying the book of Exodus in some detail. It was then that the author’s comprehensive consideration proved its worth. There may be lighter treatments of this area of typical study but none will be as fruitful or as satisfying as Soltau.