Exodus 37:18

Six branches extended from the sides, three on one side and three on the other.

Study Bible

Six branches extended from the sides
The description of the lampstand, or menorah, in the Tabernacle is significant in its design and symbolism. The six branches extending from the central shaft represent the completeness and perfection of God's creation, as the number six often symbolizes in biblical numerology. The menorah itself is a symbol of light, representing God's presence and guidance. The design reflects the tree of life, a motif that appears throughout Scripture, symbolizing life and sustenance provided by God. The menorah's branches are crafted from a single piece of gold, emphasizing unity and the divine craftsmanship involved in its creation.

Three on one side and three on the other
The symmetrical design of the menorah, with three branches on each side, highlights balance and order, reflecting God's nature as a God of order and harmony. This structure can also be seen as a representation of the balance between the spiritual and physical realms, with the central shaft symbolizing the divine connection between heaven and earth. The menorah's design is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus refers to Himself as the light of the world (John 8:12), drawing a parallel between the menorah's light and His role as the spiritual light guiding humanity. The menorah's presence in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple underscores its importance in Jewish worship and its enduring symbol of God's eternal light and presence among His people.

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 to carry out this work.

2. Lampstand (Menorah)
A sacred object in the Tabernacle, symbolizing the light of God and His presence among His people. It was made of pure gold and had six branches extending from a central shaft.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was the center of worship and sacrifice.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Light
The lampstand represents God's light and presence. As believers, we are called to reflect His light in a dark world, living as testimonies of His truth and love.

Divine Design
The detailed instructions for the lampstand highlight God's attention to detail and order. This reminds us that God cares about the specifics of our lives and has a purpose for each of us.

Empowerment for Service
Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit to accomplish his task, we too are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill the roles and responsibilities God has given us.

Unity and Diversity
The lampstand's branches, though distinct, are part of one structure. This illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role but is part of the whole.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the design of the lampstand reflect God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, be a light in our communities, reflecting the presence of God?

3. How does the empowerment of Bezalel by the Spirit of God encourage us in our own spiritual gifts and callings?

4. What lessons can we learn from the unity and diversity of the lampstand's branches in relation to the church today?

5. How does the symbolism of the lampstand in the Tabernacle connect to Jesus' declaration of being the "light of the world"? How can this understanding impact our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:31-40
Provides the original 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 the Tabernacle as a symbol of divine light and guidance.

Revelation 1:12-13
Describes a vision of Jesus among seven golden lampstands, symbolizing His presence and authority among the churches.