Exodus 35:18
The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,
Original Language Analysis
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
of the tabernacle
H4908
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
of the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
3 of 8
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
6 of 8
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
Historical Context
Pure olive oil was produced by crushing olives in a mortar rather than grinding in a mill, yielding the clearest, cleanest burning oil. The daily oil supply and lamp-tending fell to the priests as one of their primary duties, emphasizing the priority of maintaining God's light.
Questions for Reflection
- What is the spiritual significance of requiring 'beaten' oil for the light that represents God's presence?
- How does the continual burning of the lamps challenge believers regarding consistent spiritual vigilance?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Oil for lighting (שֶׁמֶן לַמָּאֹר, shemen la-ma'or) had to be pure, beaten olive oil—the finest quality requiring crushing the olives rather than pressing them. This oil kept the menorah burning continually (תָּמִיד, tamid, 'perpetually'), symbolizing the Holy Spirit's unceasing work in providing light and illumination. The requirement for 'beaten' oil parallels Christ's suffering ('beaten' for our iniquities, Isaiah 53:5) that provides the light of life to all who believe.