Tabernacle in Bible was circular not rectangular, says Bible-loving engineer

For many centuries, scholars envisioned the Biblical Tabernacle or Tent of Meeting as a rectangular tent. This was based on the details in the Old Testament's book of Exodus. A Wisconsin engineer challenged this theory and said this specifically detailed design of the temporary house of God is not a modest rectangular tent but is actually a circular edifice.

According to Breaking News Israel, mechanical engineer Andrew Hoy studied for several years the details of the portable place of worship used by Israel, as described in biblical manuscripts.

Hoy's concept went against the belief scholars of old had established. He said the Tabernacle is a massive circular structure that stands six stories tall.

His study of the book of Exodus led him to the details of the construction of the Tabernacle and the realization that there were discrepancies between the life-size replicas of the Tent of Meeting at Timna Park and Ariel, both located in Israel.

Hoy is now in Israel to further explore his theory. He intends to examine archaeological evidences validate the circular Tabernacle theory and to find backing and support for the discoveries. He described his theory in detail on the Project 314 website.

He knows that the challenge of validating his claim is not an easy one as the Tabernacle is a portable structure and was dissembled 3,000 years ago.

"I think that restoration of personal study is really important, to look at the text for yourself with a critical eye. I wasn't looking for this, but when I began to study the verses about the Tabernacle, this is what became clear to me as being the absolute truth," Hoy said to Breaking Israel News.

The engineer was raised in a Lutheran Church and studied in a religious seminary in Jerusalem. He focused on learning Hebrew so he can study the Bible in its original form. Reports said that Hoy has a deep passion for the Bible and a knack for numbers.