Exodus 25:34 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And on the lampstand itself there shall be four cups made like almond blossoms, with their calyxes and flowers,

NIV: And on the lampstand there are to be four cups shaped like almond flowers with buds and blossoms.

NASB: and on the lampstand four cups shaped like almond blossoms, its bulbs and its flowers.

CSB: There are to be four cups shaped like almond blossoms on the lampstand shaft along with its buds and petals.

NLT: Craft the center stem of the lampstand with four lamp cups shaped like almond blossoms, complete with buds and petals.

KJV: And in the candlestick shall be four bowls made like unto almonds, with their knops and their flowers.

NKJV: On the lampstand itself four bowls shall be made like almond blossoms, each with its ornamental knob and flower.

This is part of a sacred candelabra, called a menorāh (Exodus 25:31), created for God's sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). The central shaft of the lampstand has four golden almond blossoms. Each blossom is made of a bud, or "calyx," and a flower. The top blossom holds the light. The others connect to the six branches, three on each side, which hold the other six lamps at their tips. Each branch includes three blossoms (Exodus 25:32–33).

The design of this menorah results in a line of seven lights, each supported by a "branch" of segments. The segments extend from almond blossoms and join along the main trunk. Most depictions show an arrangement of three half-circles. Some align the almond blossoms to split the arcs into four sections. A few scholars think the branches should be straight, making the menorah triangular. This unique element has been a famous symbol of Judaism for millennia.

Exodus 25:31–40 indicates how Israel is to form a special candelabra for use in the sanctuary. The Hebrew root word used here is menorāh, which many recognize as a seven-branched candlestick still associated with Judaism. This lampstand is pure gold, with three branches on either side of a central piece. Each branch is made of three flower-like shapes with connecting arcs. The result is a pattern famously associated with Judaism.

Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).

The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 6/17/2025 4:46:25 PM