Exodus 37:17

Then he made the lampstand out of pure hammered gold, all of one piece: its base and shaft, its cups, and its buds and petals.

Study Bible

Then he made the lampstand out of pure hammered gold
The lampstand, or menorah, was crafted by Bezalel, a skilled artisan filled with the Spirit of God. The use of pure gold signifies the holiness and divine nature of the object, as gold is often associated with purity and deity in the Bible. The process of hammering the gold indicates the meticulous and careful work required, symbolizing the refinement and perfection expected in worship. Gold's durability and value reflect the eternal and priceless nature of God's presence.

all of one piece
The lampstand being made from a single piece of gold emphasizes unity and perfection. This unity can be seen as a representation of the oneness of God, a central tenet in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4). The seamless construction also points to the integrity and wholeness required in the worship of God, as well as the unity of the body of Christ, the Church, as described in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 12:12).

its base and shaft
The base and shaft provide stability and support for the lampstand, symbolizing the foundational truths of the faith and the strength of God's Word. The base can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the foundation of the Church (1 Corinthians 3:11). The shaft, rising from the base, may represent the centrality of Christ in the believer's life, as He is the vine and we are the branches (John 15:5).

its cups, and its buds and petals
The cups, buds, and petals are decorative elements that resemble almond blossoms, which are significant in biblical symbolism. The almond tree is the first to bloom in Israel, symbolizing watchfulness and the hastening of God's promises. This imagery connects to the prophetic role of the lampstand, as it provides light, representing the revelation and guidance of God. The intricate design reflects the beauty and complexity of God's creation and His attention to detail. The blossoming elements can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's promises and the light of the world (John 8:12).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the lampstand. He was filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-5).

2. The Lampstand (Menorah)
A significant piece of furniture in the Tabernacle, made of pure gold, symbolizing the light of God and His presence among His people. It was crafted with intricate detail, including branches and almond blossoms.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The lampstand was placed in the Holy Place, providing light.

4. Pure Gold
Symbolizes purity, divinity, and the preciousness of God's presence. The use of pure gold for the lampstand underscores the holiness and sacredness of the items used in worship.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The context in which the Tabernacle was constructed, representing the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land, guided by God's presence.

Teaching Points

Symbol of Divine Light
The lampstand represents God's light and guidance. As believers, we are called to walk in the light of Christ, allowing His presence to illuminate our lives and guide our paths.

Craftsmanship and Excellence
Bezalel's work on the lampstand exemplifies the importance of using our God-given talents with excellence for His glory. We should strive to offer our best in service to God.

Purity and Holiness
The use of pure gold signifies the purity and holiness required in worship. We are reminded to approach God with pure hearts and to live lives set apart for His purposes.

God's Presence in Our Journey
Just as the lampstand provided light in the Tabernacle, God's presence provides light in our spiritual journey. We are encouraged to seek His guidance and remain in His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the lampstand by Bezalel reflect the importance of using our skills for God's purposes?

2. In what ways does the lampstand symbolize God's presence and guidance in your life today?

3. How can we apply the concept of purity, as represented by the pure gold of the lampstand, in our daily walk with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can be "light" in the world, reflecting the light of Christ as the lampstand did in the Tabernacle?

5. How does understanding the role of the lampstand in the Tabernacle enhance your appreciation of Jesus' declaration as the "light of the world"?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:31-40
Provides the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the lampstand, emphasizing its design and purpose.

John 8:12
Jesus declares Himself as the "light of the world," drawing a parallel to the lampstand's role in providing light in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's guidance and presence.

Revelation 1:12-13
Describes a vision of Jesus among seven golden lampstands, representing the churches, highlighting the continuity of the lampstand's symbolism from the Old Testament to the New Testament.