Exodus 35:17
The hangings of the court, his pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court,
Original Language Analysis
אֵ֚ת
H853
אֵ֚ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
קַלְעֵ֣י
The hangings
H7050
קַלְעֵ֣י
The hangings
Strong's:
H7050
Word #:
2 of 11
a (door) screen (as if slung across), or the valve (of the door) itself
הֶֽחָצֵֽר׃
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵֽר׃
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
3 of 11
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
עַמֻּדָ֖יו
his pillars
H5982
עַמֻּדָ֖יו
his pillars
Strong's:
H5982
Word #:
5 of 11
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאֵ֕ת
H853
וְאֵ֕ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
The menorah weighed approximately 75 pounds of pure gold and stood about 5 feet tall. Its design included almond blossoms, knops (bulbs), and flowers—decorative elements reflecting the tree of life. It required daily tending with pure beaten olive oil.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the menorah's design (one piece with seven branches) illustrate both God's unity and His intention for His people to radiate His light?
- In what ways does the daily tending of the lamps teach about the need for continuous spiritual maintenance and walking in the light?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The candlestick (מְנוֹרָה, menorah) provided the only light in the Holy Place, symbolizing God as the source of all illumination and truth. Its design—one central shaft with six branches—represents God's perfect light radiating through His people (Israel as seven branches, the complete number). Beaten from one piece of gold (31:8), it pictures unity and purity. Christ declared Himself the light of the world (John 8:12), and believers are called to be lights bearing witness to Him (Matthew 5:14-16).