Exodus 25:33

Three bowls made like unto almonds, [with] a knop and a flower in one branch; and three bowls made like almonds in the other branch, [with] a knop and a flower: so in the six branches that come out of the candlestick.

Three {H7969} bowls {H1375} made like unto almonds {H8246}, with a knop {H3730} and a flower {H6525} in one {H259} branch {H7070}; and three {H7969} bowls {H1375} made like almonds {H8246} in the other {H259} branch {H7070}, with a knop {H3730} and a flower {H6525}: so in the six {H8337} branches {H7070} that come {H3318} out of the candlestick {H4501}.

On one branch are to be three cups shaped like almond blossoms, each with a ring of outer leaves and petals; likewise on the opposite branch three cups shaped like almond blossoms, each with a ring of outer leaves and petals; and similarly for all six branches extending from the menorah.

There are to be three cups shaped like almond blossoms on the first branch, each with buds and petals, three on the next branch, and the same for all six branches that extend from the lampstand.

three cups made like almond-blossoms in one branch, a knop and a flower; and three cups made like almond-blossoms in the other branch, a knop and a flower: so for the six branches going out of the candlestick:

Commentary

Exodus 25:33 provides intricate details for the construction of the Menorah, the golden lampstand that was to stand in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. This verse specifically describes the decorative elements on the six branches extending from the central shaft.

Context

This verse is part of God's precise instructions to Moses on Mount Sinai for building the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God's presence would dwell among the Israelites. Following the general command to make the lampstand (Exodus 25:31), verses 32-36 detail its exact dimensions and ornamentation. The meticulous nature of these instructions underscores the divine origin and sacred purpose of every element within God's dwelling place, emphasizing that every aspect of worship was to be according to God's specific design.

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Order: The detailed specifications for the Menorah, down to its almond-shaped bowls, buds (knops), and blossoms (flowers), highlight God's demand for exactness in worship and service. This precision reflects His perfect character and the importance of following His divine blueprint in all matters of faith and practice.
  • Symbolism of Light: The Menorah was the sole source of light in the Holy Place, illuminating the showbread table and the altar of incense. It symbolized God's presence, guidance, and revelation, bringing light into darkness. This rich symbolism foreshadows the ultimate light provided by Jesus Christ, the true Light of the world, who illuminates spiritual understanding.
  • Beauty and Holiness: The intricate, naturalistic designs of almonds, knops, and flowers imbued the lampstand with beauty, reflecting the holiness and glory of God. This artistry elevated the sacred space and inspired reverence, signifying that God's dwelling place should be both functional and aesthetically glorious.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "knop" is kaphtor (ื›ึทึผืคึฐืชึนึผืจ), often translated as "bulb" or "bud," suggesting a swelling or rounded projection. The "bowls made like unto almonds" and "flower" (perach, ืคึถึผืจึทื—) emphasize a motif of organic growth and life. The almond blossom, in particular, was significant; it was the first tree to bud in spring, symbolizing new life and divine watchfulness (as seen in Jeremiah 1:11-12, where the almond tree, shaqed, is linked to God "watching" over His word). This natural imagery suggests divine creativity intertwined with sacred design.

Practical Application

Exodus 25:33 reminds us that God cares deeply about the details of our worship and service. While we no longer build a physical Tabernacle, the principle remains: our devotion should be intentional, ordered, and beautiful in His eyes, reflecting His character and glory. Just as the Menorah brought physical light into the Tabernacle, believers are called to be light in the world, shining with the truth and grace of God through their lives and actions. The intricate design also speaks to the wonder of God's creation, from which these artistic motifs were drawn, encouraging us to appreciate beauty and order in all aspects of life.

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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 1:11

    ยถ Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a rod of an almond tree.

  • Jeremiah 1:12

    Then said the LORD unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.

  • Zechariah 4:3

    And two olive trees by it, one upon the right [side] of the bowl, and the other upon the left [side] thereof.

  • Exodus 37:19

    Three bowls made after the fashion of almonds in one branch, a knop and a flower; and three bowls made like almonds in another branch, a knop and a flower: so throughout the six branches going out of the candlestick.

  • Exodus 37:20

    And in the candlestick [were] four bowls made like almonds, his knops, and his flowers:

  • Numbers 17:4

    And thou shalt lay them up in the tabernacle of the congregation before the testimony, where I will meet with you.

  • Numbers 17:8

    ยถ And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.
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