What number verse is Exodus 25:34 in the Bible?

Exodus 25:34 is the 2,230th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 25:34 sits at position 2,230.

25:3325:33 25:3525:35

Exodus 25:34

“Instructions for the Golden Lampstand (Menorah)”· Exodus 25:31–40Read in context

King James Version

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

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KJV (with Strong's)

And in the candlestick ^H4501 shall be four ^H702 bowls ^H1375 made like unto almonds ^H8246, with their knops ^H3730 and their flowers ^H6525.

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Complete Jewish Bible

On the central shaft of the menorah are to be four cups shaped like almond blossoms, each with its ring of outer leaves and petals.

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Berean Standard Bible

And on the lampstand there shall be four cups shaped like almond blossoms with buds and petals.

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American Standard Version

and in the candlestick four cups made like almond-blossoms, the knops thereof, and the flowers thereof;

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World English Bible Messianic

and in the lamp stand four cups made like almond blossoms, its buds and its flowers;

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And in the shaft of the Candlesticke shalbe foure boules like vnto almondes, his knops and his floures.

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Young's Literal Translation

`And in the candlestick are four calyxes made like almonds, its knops and its flowers;

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Română · Cornilescu

Pe fusul sfeşnicului, să fie patru potiraşe în chip de floare cu migdal, cu gămălioarele şi florile lor.

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Translation

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In the KJVVerse 2,230 of 31,102 · 7.2%

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Study this verse

Summary

Exodus 25:34 provides precise divine specifications for the central shaft of the Tabernacle's golden lampstand, the Menorah. This verse mandates the ornamentation of the main stem with four distinct sets of almond-shaped bowls, decorative knops (bulbs), and blossoming flowers. This detailed botanical design not only distinguished the central shaft from its six branches but also underscored the divine demand for aesthetic perfection and symbolic richness in the sacred furnishings, which collectively symbolized God's illuminating presence, life-giving power, and watchful care among His covenant people in the wilderness.

Context

Literary Context

This verse is situated within God's detailed instructions to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, immediately following the establishment of the covenant at Mount Sinai. The broader context of Exodus 25 outlines the divine blueprint for the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and then, specifically, the Menorah. Verses 25:31-40 provide the comprehensive design for this seven-branched lampstand of pure gold. Verse 34 focuses exclusively on the unique ornamentation of the Menorah's central shaft, differentiating it from the three sets of similar decorations prescribed for each of the six branches in Exodus 25:33. This meticulous detail highlights the foundational importance of the central stem, from which all other branches extend, and emphasizes the divine precision required for every element of Israel's worship.

Historical & Cultural Context

The instructions for the Tabernacle were given to Moses while the Israelites were a nomadic people, encamped in the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. The Tabernacle was designed to be God's portable dwelling place, a tangible manifestation of His presence, guidance, and covenant faithfulness among His people. Its construction was an immense undertaking, demanding not only significant material resources but also exceptional skill and adherence to a precise divine blueprint, as commanded in Exodus 25:9. This divine dictation underscored the absolute holiness of God and the sacredness of His worship, ensuring that every detail was set apart and reflected His glory. The almond motif, common in the ancient Near East, held particular cultural significance as a harbinger of spring, symbolizing new life, vigilance, and divine watchfulness, a symbolism profoundly reinforced later in the narrative of Aaron's budding rod.

Key Themes

Exodus 25:34 contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it emphasizes God's holiness and transcendence, demanding absolute precision and beauty in the construction of His dwelling place. Secondly, it highlights the theme of divine presence and illumination, as the Menorah itself was the sole light source in the Holy Place, symbolizing God's guidance and truth among His people. Thirdly, the botanical imagery, particularly the almond motif, introduces themes of life, growth, and fruitfulness, reflecting the vitality inherent in God's presence and His desire for His people to flourish. Finally, the meticulous design speaks to the theme of divine order and wisdom, demonstrating that God is the ultimate architect, whose plans are perfect and purposeful, even in the smallest details of worship.

Exposition and Analysis

Key Word Analysis

Bowls gᵉbîyaʻ' H1375

From an unused root meaning "to be convex," this term (H1375) refers to a goblet or, by analogy, the calyx of a flower. In the context of the Menorah, these were cup-shaped ornaments, likely resembling the base of an almond blossom, serving as decorative elements integral to the overall botanical theme, emphasizing the life-giving aspect of the lampstand.

Knops kaphtôr' H3730

Probably from an unused root meaning "to encircle," this term (H3730) denotes a chaplet, or in an architectonic sense, a capital of a column, or a wreath-like button or disk. On the Menorah, these were ornamental bulbs or spherical swellings, often interpreted as a swelling bud, providing a transitional element between the bowls and the flowers, symbolizing the initial stage of blossoming and contributing to the organic, naturalistic design.

Flowers perach' H6525

From the root pārach (to sprout, bloom), this term (H6525) refers to a calyx (natural or artificial), generally bloom, blossom, or flower. These were the fully opened flower shapes, completing the botanical motif. Together with the bowls and knops, they created a sequence of natural growth, symbolizing life, beauty, and fruitfulness, reflecting the vibrant and living nature of God's presence.

Verse Breakdown

"And in the candlestick"

This phrase precisely locates the described ornamentation on the central shaft of the Menorah (the golden lampstand). This main stem was the foundational element, from which the six branches extended, and it was uniquely adorned to signify its distinct importance as the primary support for the light.

"[shall be] four bowls"

Unlike the three sets of decorations specified for each of the six branches (Exodus 25:33), the central shaft was to have four sets of these cup-shaped ornaments. This increased number signifies the foundational and unique role of the central shaft, perhaps emphasizing a greater measure of divine life, completeness, or stability emanating from the core of God's presence.

"made like unto almonds"

This crucial detail specifies the distinctive shape of the bowls, resembling an almond blossom or nut. The almond tree is renowned for being one of the first trees to bloom in the Near East, often before its leaves appear, symbolizing awakening, new life, divine watchfulness (as seen in Jeremiah 1:11-12), and the promise of fruitfulness and divine favor.

"[with] their knops and their flowers"

Each of the four almond-shaped bowls was to be accompanied by a knop (representing a bud or swelling) and a flower (representing a full blossom). This sequence creates a complete botanical progression from bud to full bloom, illustrating continuous life, growth, and beauty. This organic design vividly portrays the vibrant, living, and flourishing nature of God's presence and the life He imparts.

Literary Devices

The passage employs rich Symbolism and Metaphor to convey profound theological truths. The entire Menorah, with its detailed botanical ornamentation, is a powerful Symbol of God's illuminating presence, His life-giving power, and His watchful care. The almond motif, specifically, functions as a Symbol of new life, resurrection, and vigilance, drawing on its natural characteristic as one of the first trees to blossom in spring. The progression from knop (bud) to bowl (calyx) to flower (blossom) serves as a Metaphor for natural growth, vitality, and flourishing, reflecting the dynamic and beautiful nature of God's interaction with His creation and His people. This intricate, organic design also subtly hints at Typology, foreshadowing the ultimate source of life and light, Jesus Christ, and the spiritual fruitfulness that springs from Him.

Theological and Thematic Connections

Exodus 25:34 profoundly underscores God's meticulous nature and His demand for beauty, excellence, and perfection in worship. The precise and intricate instructions for the Menorah, down to the specific shapes of almond-shaped bowls, knops, and flowers, reveal that God is not indifferent to aesthetics or detail in the sacred realm. This divine attention to minutiae signifies the absolute holiness of His presence and the sacredness of the space where He condescended to meet with His people. The almond motif, in particular, points to deeper theological themes of life, resurrection, and divine watchfulness, connecting the physical structure to profound spiritual truths. It teaches that true worship involves offering our very best, reflecting the glory, order, and beauty of the divine architect, and acknowledging that His presence brings life and flourishing.

Numbers 17:8 Hebrews 9:2 Psalm 19:1

Reflection and Application

While the physical Tabernacle no longer stands, the profound principles embedded in Exodus 25:34 remain eternally relevant for believers today. God's meticulousness in the Menorah's design reminds us that He is a God of order, beauty, and intentionality, who cares deeply about the details of our lives and, especially, our worship. This calls us to cultivate a spirit of excellence and intentionality in all we do for Him, whether in our personal devotion, our service to others within the body of Christ, or the corporate worship of the church. The almond motif, symbolizing new life, awakening, and divine watchfulness, serves as a powerful encouragement for us to embrace spiritual renewal, to remain vigilant in our faith, and to bear abundant fruit in our lives, reflecting the radiant light of Christ to a world desperately in need of His truth. Our lives, like the Menorah, are intended to be vessels of divine light and beauty, meticulously shaped by God's design, shining brightly for His glory and illuminating the path for others.

Questions for Reflection

In what specific areas of my life or worship might I be neglecting "details" that God, as a God of order and beauty, might care about?
How can the symbolism of the almond—representing new life and divine watchfulness—inspire and strengthen my spiritual journey and commitment today?
What does God's demand for beauty, excellence, and precision in the Tabernacle's furnishings teach me about the quality and intentionality of my offerings and service to Him?

FAQ

Why was the Menorah so intricately designed?

The intricate design of the Menorah, including the almond-shaped bowls, knops, and flowers, served multiple profound purposes. Firstly, it was a direct reflection of the glory, majesty, and holiness of God, demonstrating that only the finest craftsmanship, purest materials, and most precise adherence to divine instruction were acceptable for His sacred dwelling place. Secondly, every detail was imbued with rich symbolism, conveying theological truths about God's character, His life-giving presence, and His desire for beauty and order in worship. It was a tangible representation of divine perfection and the sacredness of the Holy Place, designed by God Himself to ensure its unique significance and to be a constant reminder of His presence among His people, as commanded in Exodus 25:8.

What is the significance of the almond motif on the Menorah?

The almond motif on the Menorah holds deep and multifaceted symbolic significance. In the ancient Near East, the almond tree was particularly notable for being the first tree to blossom in spring, often before its leaves appeared, making it a powerful symbol of awakening, new life, and divine vigilance. This symbolism is profoundly reinforced in Numbers 17:8, where Aaron's rod, made of almond wood, miraculously budded, blossomed, and bore ripe almonds, serving as God's unmistakable sign of divine validation for Aaron's priestly authority. On the Menorah, the almond likely symbolized God's ever-present, life-giving power and His watchful care over His people, as well as the vitality, fruitfulness, and spiritual flourishing associated with His divine presence, emphasizing that all true spiritual life and light originate from Him.

Christ-Centered Fulfillment

The Menorah, with its intricate almond-blossom design and role as the sole source of light in the Holy Place, stands as a profound and beautiful type of Christ. Just as the Menorah illuminated the path within the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's guidance and truth, so too is Jesus the "Light of the World" (John 8:12), who dispels spiritual darkness and reveals the Father's truth to humanity. He is the ultimate illumination, guiding believers into all truth (John 14:6). The almond motif, symbolizing new life, resurrection, and divine watchfulness, powerfully foreshadows Christ, who is "the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20), bringing spiritual life and eternal hope through His victorious resurrection. The meticulous divine design of the Menorah points to the perfect, divinely ordained plan of salvation embodied in Christ, the ultimate "true tabernacle" (Hebrews 8:2) through whom God truly dwells among us. Through Him, believers are not only illuminated but also become "light in the Lord" (Ephesians 5:8), reflecting His glory and bearing fruit for His kingdom, thereby fulfilling the very purpose symbolized by the Menorah's organic, life-filled design.

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Public-domain commentary

Matthew Henry

From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 25:31–40. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.

1662–1714 · 10 verses

Passage under commentExodus 25:31–40

31¶ And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.

32And six branches shall come out of the sides of it; three branches of the candlestick out of the one side, and three branches of the candlestick out of the other side:

33Three 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.

34And in the candlestick shall be four bowls made like unto almonds, with their knops and their flowers.

35And there shall be a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, according to the six branches that proceed out of the candlestick.

36Their knops and their branches shall be of the same: all it shall be one beaten work of pure gold.

37And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof: and they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it.

38And the tongs thereof, and the snuffdishes thereof, shall be of pure gold.

39Of a talent of pure gold shall he make it, with all these vessels.

40And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points

I.The next thing ordered to be made for the furnishing of God's palace was a rich stately candlestick, all of pure gold, not hollow, but solid. The particular directions here given concerning it show,

1.That it was very magnificent, and a great ornament to the place; it had many branches drawn from the main shaft, which had not only their bowls (to put the oil and the kindled wick in) for necessity, but knops and flowers for ornament.

2.That it was very convenient, and admirably contrived both to scatter the light and to keep the tabernacle clean from smoke and snuffs.

3.That it was very significant. The tabernacle had no windows by which to let in the light of the day, all its light was candle-light, which intimates the comparative darkness of that dispensation, while the Sun or righteousness had not as yet risen, nor had the day-star from on high yet visited his church. Yet God left not himself without witness, nor them without instruction; the commandment was a lamp, and the law a light, and the prophets were branches from that lamp, which gave light in their several ages to the Old Testament church. The church is still dark, as the tabernacle was, in comparison with what it will be in heaven; but the word of God is the candlestick, a light shining in a dark place (Pe2 1:19), and a dark place indeed the world would be without it. The Spirit of God, in his various gifts and graces, is compared to the seven lamps which burn before the throne, Rev 4:5. The churches are golden candlesticks, the lights of the world, holding forth the word of life as the candlestick does the light, Phi 2:15, Phi 2:16. Ministers are to light the lamps, and snuff them (Exo 25:37), by opening the scriptures. The treasure of this light is now put into earthen vessels, Co2 4:6, Co2 4:7. The branches of the candlestick spread every way, to denote the diffusing of the light of the gospel into all parts by the Christian ministry, Mat 5:14, Mat 5:15. There is a diversity of gifts, but the same Spirit gives to each to profit withal.

II.There is in the midst of these instructions an express caution given to Moses, to take heed of varying from his model:

Make them after the pattern shown thee, Exo 25:40. Nothing was left to his own invention, or the fancy of the workmen, or the people's humour; but the will of God must be religiously observed in every particular. Thus,

1.All God's providences are exactly according to his counsels, and the copy never varies from the original. Infinite Wisdom never changes its measures; whatever is purposed shall undoubtedly be performed.

2.All his ordinances must be administered according to his institutions. Christ's instruction to his disciples (Mat 28:20) is similar to this: Observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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