The most sacred religious symbol of the Israelites, the chest constructed at God’s behest to shelter the tablets of the Ten Commandments, the covenant between God and Israel given to Moses on Mount Sinai. It was kept heavily veiled in the Holy of Holies of the tabernacle (the portable sanctuary of the Israelites, also called “the tent of the congregation”) and only the high priest could look upon its uncovered surface. Above the ark, which was constructed of acacia wood overlaid with gold, was a “mercy seat” covered by the outstretched wings of two golden cherubim.
The flame of the ark of the covenant burns at the high altar at the Inner Retreat. The altars of Church Universal and Triumphant that Keepers of the Flame tend daily around the world are tied to that flame and receive its emanations.
