The Tabernacle, as described in the book of Exodus, was more than just a portable sanctuary—it was a place where the Israelites were brought into an experience with God. 

Each section of the tabernacle’s design served a purpose. Even God’s instructions for the design of the priests’ garments was intricate and intentional.

God instructed them to engrave two onyx stones with the names of the sons of Israel. Each part of the priests’ attire was a physical reminder of their standing before the LORD and their purpose as priests.

Design That Connects with Existing Elements

Through the descriptions of such design elements in Exodus, the reader ought to even be reminded of imagery from the garden of Eden in Genesis.

The tabernacle was meant to be a place where God dwelt among his people, just as he dwelt among Adam and Eve in the garden. The veil of the holy of holies was embroidered with cherubim – an image reminding the Israelites and modern-day readers of how the garden of Eden was guarded by cherubim after the Fall. The tabernacle entrance faces the east, just as the entrance to the garden faces east.

Reading such portions of the Bible without considering how these details and elements fit into scripture as a whole may cause readers to feel that such specific descriptions are random information when in fact the opposite is true. 

Precision and detail always serves a purpose in Biblical design. As people created in God’s image, designers in the digital age can reflect their creator by implementing a similar level of intentionality and pursuit of excellence in their work.

Design That Draws Users In

The Tabernacle was designed with three main areas: the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Holy of Holies. Each space had a specific function and increasing levels of sacred significance. Again, each of these sections were created in such a way that forced the Israelites to engage with the elements, rather than just mindlessly move through each part of the process.

When it comes to design, we need to ask ourselves – how can we make every element of the user experience – whether it’s opening a brochure or clicking through a landing page – an experience that draws the user in and creates a greater appreciation for the product we’re offering? What aspects of the design will make people want to continue engaging with it, rather than clicking away?

Apple is one example of a company that tries to do this with excellence. Whether it’s unboxing the new iPhone or or airplaying a video from your device to your Apple TV, each step is crafted with simplicity and ease-of-use in mind. You don’t have to be a tech wizard to use an Apple product. The features of Apple products or the lack thereof are often the ones that die-hard fans rave about when making their case for why they’ve chosen these products over others options. The ability to seamlessly switch between devices in the Apple ecosystem is what makes it so attractive.

Design That Conveys Excellence

In the description of God’s instructions for the Tabernacle in Exodus 26, we see specificity like the measurements for the frames of acacia wood and the colors of the curtains. 

These things which may seem like minutiae to the reader are congruent with God’s character as it is portrayed throughout scripture.

In the Gospel of Luke, we are told that He knows the number of hairs on our head (Luke 12:7)

In the Psalms we read that he He determines the number of the stars (Psalm 147:4)

Design is literally meant to make things look appealing and inspire awe. As designers approach their work, they would do well to ask themselves, “Does this inspire awe? Does this encourage others to praise what is good, right and beautiful?” 

Approaching our work with excellence in mind is a powerful way to convey truths about our creator and our place in the world. We are made in the image of a creator who cares about the details. 

Working on diverse projects for various clients gives you exposure to real-world scenarios and challenges. This experience is invaluable and will help you adapt quickly to different design needs and styles.

About the Author:

Chris Duran is a content specialist of Design Magazine and TDS Australia.

Illustrations & Design by Thinh Ly

Thinh Ly is a mid-weight graphic designer at TDS Australia.

Tokyo Design Studio (TDS Australia) provides brand design, web design and video production services. With creative expertise, execution capability, and storytelling skills, we materialise solutions, shape directions, and create products to accompany and support your business branding process on a unique path.