Numbers 8:3

And Aaron did so; he set up the lamps facing toward the front of the lampstand, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

So Aaron did so
This phrase indicates obedience and faithfulness to God's command. Aaron, as the high priest, serves as a model of compliance to divine instructions. The Hebrew root for "did" is עָשָׂה ('asah), which means to do, make, or accomplish. This verb is often used in the context of fulfilling God's commands, emphasizing the importance of action in faith. Aaron's obedience is a testament to his role as a mediator between God and the Israelites, highlighting the necessity of following God's precise instructions in worship and service.

he set up the lamps
The act of setting up the lamps is significant in the context of the Tabernacle, where the lamps symbolize the presence and guidance of God. The Hebrew word for "set up" is עָלָה ('alah), which can mean to ascend or to offer. This suggests that Aaron's action is not merely physical but also spiritual, elevating the act to one of worship. The lamps, part of the golden lampstand or menorah, are a perpetual symbol of God's light and truth, illuminating the path for His people.

to face the area in front of the lampstand
This phrase describes the specific orientation of the lamps, which were to illuminate the area before the lampstand. The Hebrew word for "face" is פָּנֶה (paneh), meaning face or presence. This orientation ensures that the light shines outward, symbolizing the outward expression of God's presence and the illumination of His truth to the world. The lampstand itself, made of pure gold, represents the purity and holiness of God, and the light it casts is a metaphor for divine wisdom and guidance.

just as the LORD had commanded Moses
This final phrase underscores the divine authority behind the instructions given to Aaron. The Hebrew word for "commanded" is צָוָה (tsavah), which means to command, charge, or appoint. This highlights the importance of divine instruction in the life of the Israelites and the necessity of adhering to God's commands. Moses, as the intermediary between God and the people, receives these commands directly from the LORD, emphasizing the chain of divine authority and the importance of obedience in maintaining a covenant relationship with God. This obedience is not just a ritualistic act but a demonstration of faith and trust in God's sovereign will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He was responsible for carrying out the priestly duties, including the maintenance of the lampstand in the Tabernacle.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the commandments and instructions from God. He conveyed God's instructions to Aaron regarding the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

3. The Lampstand (Menorah)
A seven-branched lampstand made of pure gold, placed in the Tabernacle. It symbolized the light of God's presence among His people.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It was the dwelling place of God among His people.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who gave specific instructions for worship and the maintenance of the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Aaron's actions demonstrate the importance of following God's instructions precisely. As believers, we are called to obey God's Word in our daily lives.

Symbolism of Light
The lampstand represents God's presence and guidance. We are reminded to seek His light in our lives and reflect it to others.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
Aaron's role as a high priest underscores the responsibility of spiritual leaders to maintain the spiritual well-being of their communities.

Continuous Worship
The continual burning of the lamps signifies the need for ongoing worship and devotion to God, not just in designated times but as a lifestyle.

God's Presence Among His People
The lampstand in the Tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people, a truth fulfilled in Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Aaron's obedience in setting up the lamps reflect our own need for obedience in our spiritual walk?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the "light" of God's presence is continually burning in our lives and communities?

3. How does the role of the lampstand in the Tabernacle connect to Jesus' declaration of being the "light of the world"?

4. What responsibilities do spiritual leaders have today that parallel Aaron's duties in maintaining the lampstand?

5. How can we apply the principle of continuous worship in our daily routines and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:31-40
Provides the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the lampstand, emphasizing its design and purpose.

Leviticus 24:1-4
Describes the perpetual maintenance of the lamps by Aaron and his sons, highlighting the importance of keeping the light burning continually.

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