Exodus 27:20

And you are to command the Israelites to bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to keep the lamps burning continually.

Study Bible

And you are to command
This phrase indicates a direct instruction from God to Moses. The Hebrew word for "command" is "tsavah," which implies a strong directive, not merely a suggestion. This highlights the importance of obedience in the relationship between God and His people. In the context of the Israelites, it underscores the necessity of following divine instructions to maintain holiness and order in their worship practices.

the Israelites
The term "Israelites" refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. This collective identity is crucial as it signifies the chosen people of God, set apart for His purposes. Historically, the Israelites were a distinct group among the ancient Near Eastern peoples, and their identity was deeply tied to their covenant relationship with God. This covenantal identity is central to understanding their role in God's redemptive plan.

to bring you clear oil
The phrase "clear oil" refers to pure, high-quality olive oil. In Hebrew, the word for "clear" is "zakh," meaning pure or clean. This purity is symbolic of the holiness required in worship and service to God. Olive oil was a valuable commodity in the ancient world, used for anointing, lighting, and cooking, and its use here emphasizes the offering of the best to God.

of pressed olives
The process of pressing olives to extract oil was labor-intensive, involving crushing and pressing to obtain the finest oil. This method ensured that the oil was free from impurities, suitable for sacred use. The imagery of pressing can also be seen as a metaphor for the trials and pressures that produce spiritual purity and devotion in the life of a believer.

for the light
The light refers to the lampstand in the Tabernacle, which was to burn continually. Light in the Bible often symbolizes God's presence, guidance, and truth. The perpetual light in the Tabernacle served as a constant reminder of God's eternal presence with His people. It also foreshadows Christ as the Light of the World, illuminating the path to salvation.

to keep the lamps burning continually
This phrase emphasizes the need for constant vigilance and dedication in worship. The Hebrew word for "continually" is "tamid," indicating an unbroken, perpetual state. This continual burning of the lamps signifies the unending nature of God's covenant with Israel and the perpetual worship and devotion expected from His people. It serves as a reminder for believers today to maintain a steadfast and enduring faith, always ready to shine the light of Christ in a dark world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is receiving instructions from God on how to maintain the Tabernacle.

2. Israelites
The people of God, who are commanded to bring pure olive oil for the lampstand in the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, where the lampstand is located.

4. Lampstand (Menorah)
A seven-branched candelabrum in the Tabernacle, symbolizing the light of God's presence.

5. Pure Oil of Pressed Olives
The specific type of oil required for the lamp, symbolizing purity and dedication.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
The requirement for pure oil signifies the need for purity in our worship and service to God. Just as the oil was to be pure, our hearts and actions should be free from impurity.

Continuous Devotion
The command to keep the lamps burning continually reflects the need for ongoing devotion and vigilance in our spiritual lives. Our relationship with God should be constant and unwavering.

Symbolism of Light
Light in the Tabernacle symbolizes God's presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to reflect God's light in the world, illuminating the darkness with His truth and love.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were collectively responsible for providing the oil, illustrating the communal aspect of worship and service. We are called to support and encourage one another in our faith journeys.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The lampstand points to Christ, the true Light of the World. Our lives should be centered on Him, drawing from His light and sharing it with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the requirement for "pure oil of pressed olives" teach us about the nature of our offerings to God?

2. How can we ensure that the "lamps" of our spiritual lives are kept burning continually?

3. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, support each other in maintaining our spiritual light?

4. How does the symbolism of light in the Tabernacle connect to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence as a guiding light in your life. How can you share that experience with others to encourage them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:1-4
This passage provides further instructions on the maintenance of the lampstand, emphasizing the importance of keeping the light burning continually.

Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus speaks of believers as the light of the world, drawing a parallel to the lampstand's role in the Tabernacle.

John 8:12
Jesus declares Himself as the Light of the World, connecting the physical light in the Tabernacle to the spiritual light He provides.

Psalm 119:105
The Word of God is described as a lamp to our feet, highlighting the guiding and illuminating role of God's truth.

Revelation 1:12-13
The vision of the Son of Man among the lampstands, symbolizing the presence of Christ among His churches.