Exodus 37:20
And in the candlestick were four bowls made like almonds, his knops, and his flowers:
Original Language Analysis
מְשֻׁ֨קָּדִ֔ים
made like almonds
H8246
מְשֻׁ֨קָּדִ֔ים
made like almonds
Strong's:
H8246
Word #:
4 of 6
to be (intensively, make) almond-shaped
Historical Context
The central shaft bore more decorative elements (four sets of almond-bowls versus three on branches), emphasizing its primary role. This shaft supported the six branches structurally while also bearing its own lamp at the top, making it both foundation and participant in the seven-fold light.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the central shaft bearing more decorative elements (four versus three) teach about Christ's fuller display of divine glory?
- How does the combination of structural support and light-bearing in the central shaft illustrate Christ's dual role as foundation and illumination?
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Analysis & Commentary
The central shaft also decorated with four bowls like almond blossoms (אַרְבָּעָה גְבִעִים מְשֻׁקָּדִים, arba'ah gevi'im meshukadim), with knops and flowers, demonstrates that the primary light source also displays beauty and life. Four (number representing earth/universality) versus three (on branches) suggests the central shaft's greater completeness or fullness. Christ, the true light, combines perfect illumination with perfect beauty—'altogether lovely' (Song of Solomon 5:16), 'full of grace and truth' (John 1:14).