Exodus 25:39 - Printer Friendly

ESV: It shall be made, with all these utensils, out of a talent of pure gold.

NIV: A talent of pure gold is to be used for the lampstand and all these accessories.

NASB: It shall be made from a talent of pure gold, with all these utensils.

CSB: The lampstand with all these utensils is to be made from seventy-five pounds of pure gold.

NLT: You will need 75 pounds of pure gold for the lampstand and its accessories.

KJV: Of a talent of pure gold shall he make it, with all these vessels.

NKJV: It shall be made of a talent of pure gold, with all these utensils.

This gold is for an ornate lampstand (Exodus 25:31). The lights are used in the sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9) built from donated materials (Exodus 25:1–7). Some objects, like the main body of the ark (Exodus 25:10–11), the sacred table (Exodus 25:23–24), and carrying poles (Exodus 25:13, 28), are made of wood covered in a thin layer of gold. Others, like the mercy seat (Exodus 25:17) and utensils for the table (Exodus 25:29) are made of solid metal.

One "talent" was about seventy-five pounds, or thirty-four kilograms. This special object will require that much gold to make its ornate pieces and accessories (Exodus 25:38).

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 12:47:09 AM