Tabernacle (disambiguation) - Definition and Overview

Tabernacle can mean:

• The biblical Tabernacle, the mishkan, a worship tent or other movable worship facility which the Israelites used during the Exodus and the time of the Book of Judges.

• In churches, a small cupboard, chest or cabinet in which consecrated communion wafers or bread are kept.

• In architecture, a canopied niche, often used for housing statues.

• An alternative word for a shrine, temple or chapel.

• The early Methodists of the eighteenth century called their chapels 'Tabernacles', the most famous of which was George Whitefield's London 'Tabernacle', formerly situated in Moorfields.

• The place of worship for American camp meetings (which originated during the Second Great Awakening) was usually called the tabernacle. Often it was open-sided to accommodate overflow crowds, and might have roll-up screens or netting on the sides for shade or insect protection.

• In Christian camps and singing schools, a permanent outdoor wallless pavilion where worship services or singings are conducted.

• The Salt Lake Tabernacle. A building owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.