Exodus 37:23

Authorized King James Version

And he made his seven lamps, and his snuffers, and his snuffdishes, of pure gold.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ
And he made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
נֵֽרֹתֶ֖יהָ
lamps
a lamp (i.e., the burner) or light (literally or figuratively)
#4
שִׁבְעָ֑ה
his seven
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
#5
וּמַלְקָחֶ֥יהָ
and his snuffers
(only in dual) tweezers
#6
וּמַחְתֹּתֶ֖יהָ
and his snuffdishes
a pan for live coals
#7
זָהָ֥ב
gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#8
טָהֽוֹר׃
of pure
pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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