Exodus 37:23

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

Study Bible

He made
This phrase refers to Bezalel, the skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which implies not just creation but careful and purposeful craftsmanship. This highlights the importance of divine inspiration and human skill working in harmony to fulfill God's commands. Bezalel's work is a reminder of how our talents and abilities are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory.

its seven lamps
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's perfect creation. The seven lamps of the menorah provided light in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's presence and guidance. The menorah's design, as described in Exodus, was intricate and beautiful, representing the light of God that illuminates the darkness. This imagery is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus is described as the "light of the world" (John 8:12), guiding believers in truth and righteousness.

its wick trimmers
Wick trimmers were essential tools for maintaining the lamps, ensuring they burned brightly and steadily. The Hebrew word for "trimmers" is מַלְקָחַיִם (malqachayim), which can also mean tongs or snuffers. This maintenance symbolizes the need for continual spiritual vigilance and discipline in our lives. Just as the lamps required regular attention to shine brightly, so too must believers tend to their spiritual lives through prayer, study, and obedience to God's Word.

and trays
The trays, or pans, were used to hold the ashes and remnants from the lamps. The Hebrew word מַחְתּוֹת (machtot) suggests a practical function, ensuring cleanliness and order in the Tabernacle. This reflects the broader biblical theme of purity and holiness, emphasizing that worship and service to God require a clean heart and a life set apart for His purposes. The trays remind us of the importance of removing spiritual impurities and distractions that can hinder our relationship with God.

of pure gold
Gold, in biblical times, was a symbol of purity, value, and divine majesty. The use of pure gold for the menorah and its accessories underscores the sacredness of the Tabernacle and the worship conducted within it. Gold's incorruptible nature points to the eternal and unchanging nature of God. In a spiritual sense, believers are called to reflect God's purity and holiness in their lives, striving to be vessels of honor in His service. The use of gold also foreshadows the heavenly city described in Revelation, where the streets are made of pure gold, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

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.