Exodus 40:25

and set up the lamps before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him.

Study Bible

and he lit the lamps before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him
and he lit the lamps
This phrase signifies the act of illumination within the Tabernacle, a sacred space where God's presence dwelt among the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "lit" is "עָלָה" (alah), which means to ascend or go up. This imagery of light ascending can be seen as symbolic of prayers rising to God or the divine enlightenment that comes from His presence. Lighting the lamps was a daily ritual, emphasizing the need for continual spiritual vigilance and the perpetual presence of God in the lives of His people. Historically, the menorah, or lampstand, was crafted from a single piece of gold, representing the unity and purity required in worship.

before the LORD
This phrase underscores the significance of performing acts of worship directly in the presence of God. The Hebrew word for "before" is "לִפְנֵי" (lifnei), which can also mean "in the face of" or "in the presence of." This indicates a direct and personal relationship with God, where the actions of the priests were not just ritualistic but relational. The Tabernacle was the meeting place between God and man, and every act performed there was done with the awareness of God's immediate presence. This serves as a reminder of the reverence and intentionality required in worship.

just as the LORD had commanded him
This phrase highlights the obedience of Moses and the Israelites to God's specific instructions. The Hebrew word for "commanded" is "צִוָּה" (tzivah), which implies a directive given with authority. The adherence to God's commands was crucial for maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people. It reflects a theme throughout Exodus of obedience leading to blessing and the fulfillment of God's promises. Historically, this obedience was not just about following rules but was an expression of faith and trust in God's wisdom and provision. The meticulous following of God's instructions for the Tabernacle and its services was a testament to the Israelites' commitment to honoring God in every detail of their worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is responsible for setting up the Tabernacle and ensuring everything is done according to God's instructions.

2. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Lamps
Part of the golden lampstand (Menorah) within the Tabernacle, which Moses lit as part of the consecration process. The lighting of the lamps symbolizes God's presence and guidance.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who commanded Moses to set up the Tabernacle and perform the rituals as a sign of His dwelling among His people.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to worship Him and follow His commandments as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' actions in lighting the lamps "just as the LORD had commanded him" demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's instructions. In our lives, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and faithfulness.

Symbolism of Light
The lighting of the lamps symbolizes God's presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to be lights in the world, reflecting God's presence and truth to those around us.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our lives a living Tabernacle.

Continual Worship and Devotion
The continual burning of the lamps signifies ongoing worship and devotion. We are encouraged to maintain a constant relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in lighting the lamps challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we be a light to those around us, reflecting the presence of God in our lives?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our worship and devotion to God are continual and not just occasional?

5. How do the instructions for the Tabernacle and its elements, like the lamps, enhance our understanding of God's holiness and our approach to worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:1-4
This passage provides further instructions on the care and maintenance of the lamps, emphasizing the importance of keeping them burning continually before the LORD.

John 8:12
Jesus refers to Himself as the "light of the world," drawing a parallel to the light of the lamps in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's presence and guidance.

Psalm 119:105
The psalmist describes God's word as a lamp to our feet, highlighting the guiding and illuminating role of God's presence and commandments in our lives.