Exodus 37:23

He also made its seven lamps, its wick trimmers, and trays of pure gold.

Study Bible

He also made its seven lamps
The seven lamps refer to the lampstand, or menorah, which was a critical element in the Tabernacle. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible, reflecting God's creation week. The menorah's design was given directly by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:31-40), emphasizing its divine origin and purpose. The seven lamps provided light in the Holy Place, symbolizing God's presence and guidance. This imagery is echoed in Revelation 1:12-13, where Jesus is depicted among seven golden lampstands, representing the churches.

its wick trimmers
Wick trimmers were essential tools for maintaining the lamps, ensuring they burned brightly and consistently. This maintenance symbolizes the need for continual spiritual vigilance and purity. Just as the priests were responsible for tending the lamps, believers are called to maintain their spiritual lives through prayer, study, and obedience. The trimming of wicks can also be seen as a metaphor for sanctification, the process of being made holy.

and trays of pure gold
The use of pure gold signifies the value and purity required in the worship of God. Gold was the most precious metal known at the time, symbolizing the divine nature and glory of God. The trays, likely used to hold the trimmings and ashes, underscore the importance of cleanliness and order in worship. This attention to detail reflects the holiness and perfection expected in the service of God. The use of gold throughout the Tabernacle points to the heavenly reality it represents, as seen in Revelation 21:18, where the New Jerusalem is described as being made of pure gold.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the lampstand and its accessories.

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Lampstand (Menorah)
A significant piece of Tabernacle furniture, symbolizing the light of God and His presence among His people.

4. Seven Lamps
Representing completeness and perfection, often associated with the divine presence and guidance.

5. Wick Trimmers and Trays
Tools made of pure gold, used for maintaining the lamps, ensuring they burned brightly and continuously.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Light
The lampstand's light symbolizes God's presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to reflect His light in our lives.

Perfection and Completeness
The number seven signifies completeness. Our walk with God should strive for spiritual maturity and completeness in Christ.

Continuous Maintenance
Just as the lamps required regular trimming and care, our spiritual lives need constant attention and nurturing through prayer, study, and fellowship.

Purity and Holiness
The use of pure gold signifies the purity and holiness required in our worship and service to God.

Role of the Church
The lampstand's function parallels the church's role to be a beacon of light and truth in the world, pointing others to Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction and purpose of the lampstand in the Tabernacle reflect God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our spiritual "lamps" are burning brightly and continuously in our daily lives?

3. How does the symbolism of the number seven in the Bible encourage us to pursue spiritual completeness and maturity?

4. What practical steps can we take to maintain the purity and holiness of our worship and service to God, as symbolized by the use of pure gold?

5. How can the church today fulfill its role as a "lampstand," shining the light of Christ in a world that often seems dark and lost?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:1-4
This passage describes the command to keep the lamps burning continually, emphasizing the perpetual nature of God's presence and guidance.

Revelation 1:12-13, 20
The imagery of the seven golden lampstands in Revelation connects to the menorah, symbolizing the churches and the presence of Christ among them.

Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus' teaching on being the light of the world relates to the function of the lampstand, encouraging believers to shine brightly in a dark world.