Exodus 27:21

In the tabernacle of the congregation without the vail, which [is] before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall order it from evening to morning before the LORD: [it shall be] a statute for ever unto their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel.

In the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150} without {H2351} the vail {H6532}, which is before the testimony {H5715}, Aaron {H175} and his sons {H1121} shall order {H6186} it from evening {H6153} to morning {H1242} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}: it shall be a statute {H2708} for ever {H5769} unto their generations {H1755} on the behalf of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}.

Aharon and his sons are to put it in the tent of meeting, outside the curtain in front of the testimony, and keep it burning from evening until morning before ADONAI. This is to be a permanent regulation through all the generations of the people of Isra'el.

In the Tent of Meeting, outside the veil that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to tend the lamps before the LORD from evening until morning. This is to be a permanent statute for the Israelites for the generations to come.

In the tent of meeting, without the veil which is before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall keep it in order from evening to morning before Jehovah: it shall be a statute for ever throughout their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel.

Commentary

Exodus 27:21 details a crucial, perpetual duty for the Levitical priesthood concerning the lighting of the Tabernacle. This verse concludes the instructions for the Tabernacle's courtyard and its furnishings, emphasizing the importance of continuous light within the sacred space.

Context

This verse follows specific instructions given to Moses regarding the construction and maintenance of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God would dwell among the Israelites. Specifically, it relates to the lampstand (menorah) located in the Holy Place, just outside the veil that separated it from the Most Holy Place, which housed the Ark of the Covenant (the "testimony"). Exodus 27:20 previously stipulated the use of "pure olive oil beaten for the light, to cause the lamp to burn always." This daily tending of the lamps was a vital part of the priests' service, ensuring that the Tabernacle was never in darkness.

Key Themes

  • Continuous Worship and Service: The command for the lamps to burn "from evening to morning" signifies a perpetual act of worship and service before the LORD. It underscores the idea that God's presence and the people's devotion are ongoing.
  • Priestly Responsibility: "Aaron and his sons" were specifically charged with this duty, highlighting the unique and sacred role of the priesthood in mediating between God and Israel. Their meticulous adherence to these commands was essential for the spiritual well-being of the community.
  • God's Presence and Guidance: The light of the menorah symbolized God's constant presence and His illuminating truth among His people. It was a visible reminder that even in the darkness of night, God's light was present in their midst.
  • Perpetual Statute: The phrase "it shall be a statute for ever unto their generations" emphasizes the enduring nature of this divine command. It was not a temporary instruction but a foundational element of Israelite worship for all time, enacted "on the behalf of the children of Israel."

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "without the vail, which is before the testimony" clearly defines the location of the lampstand in the Holy Place, distinct from the Most Holy Place. The Hebrew term for "testimony" ('edut) refers to the tablets of the Law (the Ten Commandments) placed within the Ark of the Covenant, signifying God's covenant with Israel.

Practical Application

While the physical Tabernacle no longer stands, the principles behind this command remain relevant for believers today.

  • Consistent Devotion: Just as the lamps were tended continually, believers are called to maintain a consistent and ongoing relationship with God through prayer, study of His Word, and worship. Our spiritual light should not flicker or fade.
  • Light in the World: As followers of Christ, we are called to be "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). Our lives, illuminated by God's truth, should shine brightly in the darkness, drawing others to Him.
  • Faithful Service: The diligence of Aaron and his sons reminds us of the importance of faithfulness in our service to God, whether in grand acts or daily disciplines. Every act of obedience, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to His glory.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 19:21 (6 votes)

    And it shall be a perpetual statute unto them, that he that sprinkleth the water of separation shall wash his clothes; and he that toucheth the water of separation shall be unclean until even.

  • Numbers 18:23 (6 votes)

    But the Levites shall do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they shall bear their iniquity: [it shall be] a statute for ever throughout your generations, that among the children of Israel they have no inheritance.

  • Leviticus 3:17 (5 votes)

    [It shall be] a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all your dwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood.

  • 1 Samuel 3:3 (5 votes)

    And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God [was], and Samuel was laid down [to sleep];

  • Exodus 30:8 (5 votes)

    And when Aaron lighteth the lamps at even, he shall burn incense upon it, a perpetual incense before the LORD throughout your generations.

  • 2 Chronicles 13:11 (5 votes)

    And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense: the shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye have forsaken him.

  • Leviticus 16:34 (5 votes)

    And this shall be an everlasting statute unto you, to make an atonement for the children of Israel for all their sins once a year. And he did as the LORD commanded Moses.