Exodus 37:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 37:20
20 And in the candlestick were four bowls made like almonds, his knops, and his flowers:
Chapter Context
Exodus 37 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, prayer, worship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 37:20
20 And in the candlestick were four bowls made like almonds, his knops, and his flowers:
Analysis
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).
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.
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?