Contradiction with Exodus 40:33
Exodus 38:20 describes the setup of the tabernacle infrastructure, whereas Exodus 40:33 states that Moses finished the work, which suggests a different completion timeline.
Exodus 40:33: And he reared up the court round about the tabernacle and the altar, and set up the hanging of the court gate. So Moses finished the work.
Contradiction with Numbers 9:15
Exodus 38:20 focuses on the tabernacle altar, but Numbers 9:15 states the day the tabernacle was set up, providing differing timing details.
Numbers 9:15: And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, [namely], the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning.
Contradiction with Exodus 39:43
Exodus 38:20 covers specific design instructions, while Exodus 39:43 describes Moses examining all the work, which implies different sequences of verification and construction.
Exodus 39:43: And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.
Contradiction with Exodus 40:2
Exodus 38:20 deals with elements of tabernacle court setup, whereas Exodus 40:2 gives a specific date for erecting the tabernacle, indicating different chronological narratives.
Exodus 40:2: On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.
Contradiction with Acts 7:44
Exodus 38:20 discusses the making of implements for the tabernacle, while Acts 7:44 speaks of the tabernacle's pattern shown to Moses, highlighting potential variance in design intent versus execution details.
Acts 7:44: Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen. [speaking: or, who spake]