2 Chronicles 4:7

He made ten gold lampstands according to their specifications and placed them in the temple, five on the south side and five on the north.

Study Bible

He made ten gold lampstands
The making of ten gold lampstands signifies the abundance and splendor of Solomon's Temple, reflecting the wealth and glory of Israel during his reign. Gold, a symbol of purity and divinity, was extensively used in the temple, indicating the sacredness of the place where God would dwell among His people. The lampstands are reminiscent of the single lampstand in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31-40), which was a type of Christ as the Light of the World (John 8:12). The increase from one to ten lampstands may symbolize the expansion and fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

according to their specifications
This phrase emphasizes the importance of following divine instructions precisely, as seen throughout the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple. The specifications likely refer to the detailed instructions given by God, similar to those provided to Moses for the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:40). This adherence to divine design underscores the principle that worship and service to God must align with His revealed will.

and placed them in the temple
The placement of the lampstands in the temple highlights their role in illuminating the holy place, symbolizing the presence and guidance of God. The temple, as the central place of worship, was where God's glory dwelled among His people. The lampstands' presence in the temple signifies the light of God's truth and His covenant relationship with Israel.

five on the south side and five on the north
The symmetrical arrangement of the lampstands, five on each side, reflects the order and balance in God's creation and His dwelling place. This arrangement may also symbolize completeness and perfection, as the number ten often represents in biblical numerology. The positioning on the south and north sides ensures that the entire holy place is illuminated, symbolizing the pervasive and all-encompassing nature of God's light and truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple in Jerusalem. His reign is marked by wisdom and wealth, and he is the son of King David.

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place constructed by Solomon as a permanent dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for worship and sacrifices to God.

3. Gold Lampstands
These were crafted according to specific divine instructions and were placed in the temple to provide light, symbolizing God's presence and guidance.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Light
The lampstands symbolize God's presence and guidance. Just as the lampstands illuminated the temple, believers are called to be lights in the world, reflecting God's truth and love.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
Solomon's adherence to the specifications for the lampstands underscores the importance of following God's instructions in our lives. Obedience leads to the fulfillment of God's purposes.

Continuity of Worship
The transition from the Tabernacle to the Temple represents the continuity and consistency of worship practices. This reminds us of the importance of maintaining a consistent worship life, regardless of changes in circumstances.

God's Provision and Beauty
The use of gold for the lampstands reflects God's provision and the beauty of His creation. It encourages believers to offer their best to God in worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement and purpose of the lampstands in Solomon's temple reflect the role of believers as "lights" in the world today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are in line with His instructions, as seen in Solomon's adherence to the specifications for the temple furnishings?

3. How does the continuity of worship from the Tabernacle to the Temple inspire us to maintain a consistent worship life in our personal and communal practices?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer our best to God, reflecting the beauty and value of the gold lampstands in the temple?

5. How can the symbolism of light in the temple guide us in our interactions with others and in our role within the church community, as seen in the connection to Revelation 1:12-13?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:31-40
This passage describes the original instructions given to Moses for the construction of the lampstand (Menorah) in the Tabernacle, highlighting the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

1 Kings 7:49
This verse parallels 2 Chronicles 4:7, providing additional details about the temple furnishings, emphasizing the importance of light in worship.

Revelation 1:12-13
The imagery of lampstands is used in the New Testament to symbolize the churches, drawing a connection between the Old Testament temple and the New Testament church.