Exodus 39:37
The pure candlestick, with the lamps thereof, even with the lamps to be set in order, and all the vessels thereof, and the oil for light,
Original Language Analysis
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַטְּהֹרָ֜ה
The pure
H2889
הַטְּהֹרָ֜ה
The pure
Strong's:
H2889
Word #:
3 of 13
pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
נֵרֹ֛ת
thereof even with the lamps
H5216
נֵרֹ֛ת
thereof even with the lamps
Strong's:
H5216
Word #:
5 of 13
a lamp (i.e., the burner) or light (literally or figuratively)
נֵרֹ֛ת
thereof even with the lamps
H5216
נֵרֹ֛ת
thereof even with the lamps
Strong's:
H5216
Word #:
6 of 13
a lamp (i.e., the burner) or light (literally or figuratively)
הַמַּֽעֲרָכָ֖ה
to be set in order
H4634
הַמַּֽעֲרָכָ֖ה
to be set in order
Strong's:
H4634
Word #:
7 of 13
an arrangement; concretely, a pile; specifically a military array
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
9 of 13
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
כֵּלֶ֑יהָ
and all the vessels
H3627
כֵּלֶ֑יהָ
and all the vessels
Strong's:
H3627
Word #:
10 of 13
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
וְאֵ֖ת
H853
וְאֵ֖ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
11 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
The lampstand's seven lamps burned continually, requiring daily priestly tending (Exodus 27:20-21; Leviticus 24:2-4). The olive oil, pure and beaten (processed), symbolized the Holy Spirit's illumination. The Holy Place's windowless construction meant the lampstand provided the only light.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the daily lamp tending illustrate that sustained spiritual light requires consistent spiritual disciplines?
- What does Christ as the perfect light and believers as dependent lights teach about your witness?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The pure candlestick (מְנֹרַת הַטָּהֹר, menorat haTahor, pure lampstand) with lamps 'to be set in order' (לְהַעֲלֹת, leha'alot, lit. to cause to ascend—i.e., trimmed and filled) and oil for light provided illumination in the Holy Place. The seven lamps symbolize perfect/complete light; the pure gold signifies divine glory. The phrase 'set in order' teaches that light requires maintenance—priests daily trimmed wicks and replenished oil. Christ, the light of the world (John 8:12), gives perfect illumination. Believers, as lights (Matthew 5:14-16), require Spirit-oil to shine.