Exodus 40:24

He also placed the lampstand in the Tent of Meeting opposite the table on the south side of the tabernacle

Study Bible

He placed the lampstand
The act of placing the lampstand is significant in the context of the tabernacle's construction and dedication. The Hebrew word for "lampstand" is "מְנוֹרָה" (menorah), which is a symbol of divine light and presence. The menorah was crafted from pure gold and was a central element in the holy place, representing God's eternal light and guidance for His people. The placement of the lampstand by Moses signifies obedience to God's specific instructions and the importance of divine illumination in the life of the Israelites. It serves as a reminder that God's light should guide our paths and illuminate our understanding.

in the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" refers to the sacred space where God would meet with Moses and the Israelites. In Hebrew, it is "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Moed), which translates to "tent of appointment" or "meeting." This was a place of divine encounter, where God's presence was manifest among His people. The Tent of Meeting was a precursor to the temple and a foreshadowing of the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the importance of having a designated space for worship and communion with God, highlighting the sacredness of meeting with the Divine.

opposite the table
The placement of the lampstand "opposite the table" indicates a deliberate and ordered arrangement within the tabernacle. The table referred to here is the Table of Showbread, which held the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people. The lampstand's position opposite the table suggests a balance between light and sustenance, between divine revelation and divine provision. This arrangement teaches us about the harmony and order in God's design, where spiritual enlightenment and physical nourishment are both essential for a holistic relationship with God.

on the south side of the tabernacle
The specification of the "south side" for the lampstand's placement is not arbitrary but holds symbolic meaning. In biblical symbolism, the south often represents warmth, light, and life, as it is associated with the sun's path. The south side of the tabernacle being the location for the lampstand underscores the theme of light and life emanating from God's presence. It also reflects the meticulous nature of God's instructions for the tabernacle, where every detail has purpose and meaning. This teaches us about the importance of following God's guidance precisely and the assurance that His plans are perfect and intentional.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was instructed by God to set up the tabernacle and its furnishings according to divine specifications.

2. The Lampstand
A key piece of furniture in the tabernacle, symbolizing the light of God and His presence among His people.

3. The Tent of Meeting
The sacred space where God met with Moses and the Israelites, serving as the central place of worship and divine communication.

4. The Table
Refers to the table of showbread, which was placed opposite the lampstand, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness, representing God's dwelling place among His people.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Light
The lampstand represents God's guidance and presence. Just as the lampstand illuminated the tabernacle, believers are called to reflect God's light in the world.

Divine Order and Obedience
Moses' precise placement of the lampstand demonstrates obedience to God's instructions. Believers are encouraged to follow God's guidance in their lives with the same attention to detail and faithfulness.

God's Provision and Fellowship
The proximity of the lampstand to the table of showbread highlights the relationship between God's light and His provision. Christians are reminded of the importance of spiritual nourishment and fellowship with God.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The lampstand points to Christ, the true light. Believers are called to live in His light and share it with others, fulfilling the Great Commission.

Worship and Presence
The placement of the lampstand in the Tent of Meeting underscores the importance of worship and the awareness of God's presence in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the lampstand in the tabernacle reflect the importance of God's presence in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are reflecting God's light in our communities, similar to the lampstand's role in the tabernacle?

3. How does the relationship between the lampstand and the table of showbread inform our understanding of spiritual nourishment and fellowship with God?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain obedience to God's instructions, as demonstrated by Moses in setting up the tabernacle?

5. How can the symbolism of the lampstand enhance our understanding of Jesus as the "light of the world" and our role as His followers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:1-4
This passage provides instructions for the care and maintenance of the lampstand, emphasizing its role in the continual presence of God's light.

John 8:12
Jesus refers to Himself as the "light of the world," drawing a parallel to the lampstand's function in the tabernacle as a symbol of divine illumination.

Revelation 1:12-13
The imagery of the lampstands in John's vision connects to the presence of Christ among the churches, echoing the tabernacle's symbolism of God's presence.