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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 40:16–33.
When the tabernacle and the furniture of it were prepared, they did not put off the rearing of it till they came to Canaan, though they now hoped to be there very shortly; but, in obedience to the will of God, they set it up in the midst of their camp, while they were in the wilderness. Those that are unsettled in the world must not think that this will excuse them in their continued irreligion; as if it were enough to begin to serve God when they begin to be settled in the world. No; a tabernacle for God is a very needful and profitable companion even in a wilderness, especially considering that our carcases may fall in that wilderness, and we may be fixed in another world before we come to fix in this.
The rearing of the tabernacle was a good day's work; the consecrating of it, and of the priests, was attended to some days after. Here we have an account only of that new-year's-day's work. 1. Moses not only did all that God directed him to do, but in the order that God appointed; for God will be sought in the due order. 2. To each particular there is added an express reference to the divine appointment, which Moses governed himself by as carefully and conscientiously as the workmen did; and therefore, as before, so here it is repeated, as the Lord commanded Moses, seven times in less than fourteen verses. Moses himself, as great a man as he was, would not pretend to vary from the institution, neither to add to it nor diminish from it, in the least punctilio. Those that command others must remember that their Master also is in heaven, and they must do as they are commanded. 3. That which was to be veiled be veiled (Exo 40:21), and that which was to be used he used immediately, for the instruction of the priests, that by seeing him do the several offices they might learn to do them the more dexterously. Though Moses was not properly a priest, yet he is numbered among the priests (Psa 99:6), and the Jewish writers call him the priest of the priests; what he did he did by special warrant and direction from God, rather as a prophet, or law-giver, than as a priest. He set the wheels a going, and then left the work in the hands of the appointed ministry. (1.) When he had placed the table, he set the show-bread in order upon it (Exo 40:23); for God will never have his table unfurnished. (2.) As soon as he had fixed the candlestick, he lighted the lamps before the Lord, Exo 40:25. Even that dark dispensation would not admit of unlighted candles. (3.) The golden altar being put in its place, immediately he burnt sweet incense thereon (Exo 40:27); for God's altar must be a smoking altar. (4.) The altar of the burnt-offering was no sooner set up in the court of the tabernacle than he had a burnt-offering, and a meat-offering, ready to offer upon it, Exo 40:29. Some think, though this is mentioned here, it was not done till some time after; but it seems to me that he immediately began the ceremony of its consecration, though it was not completed for seven days. (5.) At the laver likewise, when he had fixed that, Moses himself washed his hands and feet. Thus, in all these instances, he not only showed the priests how to do their duty, but has taught us that God's gifts are intended for use, and not barely for show. Though the altars, and table, and candlestick, were fresh and new, he did not say it was a pity to sully them; no, he handselled them immediately. Talents were given to be occupied, not to be buried.
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Summary
Exodus 40:25 records the climactic moment of the Tabernacle's inauguration, detailing Moses' precise act of lighting the lamps of the Menorah within the Holy Place. This action, performed "before the LORD" and strictly "as the LORD commanded Moses," signifies the completion of the sanctuary's setup according to divine blueprint and the establishment of its perpetual illumination. This act was essential for priestly service and powerfully symbolized God's guiding, illuminating presence among His people, underscoring the themes of meticulous obedience, divine presence, and the sacredness of prescribed worship.
Context
Literary Context
Exodus 40:25 is situated within the climactic final chapter of the book of Exodus, which meticulously describes the setting up and dedication of the Tabernacle. Following chapters 25-31, where God provides detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction, and chapters 35-39, which recount the Israelites' faithful execution of these commands, chapter 40 serves as the grand culmination. Moses, acting as God's appointed builder and priest, systematically assembles each component, from the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place to the various altars and basins in the courtyard. The repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" (found throughout Exodus 40) emphasizes the absolute fidelity to God's precise instructions, ensuring the Tabernacle was a true dwelling place for the divine presence. The lighting of the lamps is one of the final, crucial acts before the glory of the LORD descends, signaling the readiness of the sanctuary for worship and the commencement of the priestly ministry.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction and dedication of the Tabernacle occurred approximately one year after the Exodus from Egypt, during Israel's wilderness wanderings. This period was foundational for Israel's identity as God's covenant people, transitioning from a nomadic slave population to a nation governed by divine law. The Tabernacle served as the central point of worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence in their midst, a mobile sanctuary that would accompany them on their journey to the Promised Land. The act of lighting lamps was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern temples, often associated with maintaining a deity's presence and ensuring visibility for ritual acts. However, the Menorah's lamps in the Tabernacle were unique in their design and purpose, specifically commanded by Yahweh (as detailed in Exodus 25:31-40) to provide continuous light in the Holy Place, a space otherwise devoid of natural light. This perpetual illumination was not merely practical but profoundly symbolic, representing God's enduring truth, guidance, and the constant availability of His presence to His chosen priests.
Key Themes
The verse Exodus 40:25 contributes to several overarching themes in Exodus. Foremost is the theme of Divine Presence and Dwelling, as the Tabernacle's completion and illumination signify God's readiness to reside among His people, fulfilling His promise to be "God with us" (Exodus 29:45-46). Another crucial theme is Meticulous Obedience to Divine Command, highlighted by the repeated refrain "as the LORD commanded Moses" throughout Exodus 40. This emphasizes that authentic worship and the establishment of God's sanctuary must align perfectly with His revealed will. Finally, the act of lighting the lamps underscores the theme of Divine Illumination and Guidance, symbolizing God's truth and light perpetually shining within the sanctuary, guiding His people and revealing His character (Psalm 119:105).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H5927), derived from a primitive root meaning "to ascend" or "to cause to ascend," is used here in the sense of "to cause to burn" or "to light." It signifies a deliberate and purposeful action of initiating the flame, causing the light to rise or appear. In the context of the Tabernacle, Moses' act of lighting the lamps was a ceremonial and priestly duty, essential for activating the Menorah's function as a source of continuous light in the Holy Place. This act was not arbitrary but a direct fulfillment of divine command, underscoring the sacredness and intentionality behind every detail of Tabernacle service and the ascent of its light as an act of worship.
Referring specifically to the individual wicks and oil within the seven branches of the Menorah, these "lamps" (H5216) were the instruments of illumination. The root meaning of nîyr ("to glisten") highlights the radiant quality of the light produced. Unlike ordinary lamps, the Menorah's lamps were to burn continually (as prescribed in Leviticus 24:2-4), symbolizing an unbroken divine presence and the perpetual availability of God's truth and guidance. The quality of the oil (pure olive oil) and the daily tending of the lamps by the priests highlighted the purity and diligence required in approaching and serving the Holy God.
This noun (H6440), often translated as "face" or "presence," is used here with a preposition to signify being "before" or "in the presence of" someone. In the context of the Tabernacle, "before the LORD" (Hebrew, liphnê YHWH) denotes being in the immediate, consecrated presence of Yahweh (H3068). It specifically refers to the Holy Place, the first chamber of the sanctuary, where the Menorah stood opposite the Table of Showbread, and before the veil separating it from the Most Holy Place where the Ark of the Covenant resided. Performing this act liphnê YHWH signifies that it was an act of worship, service, and obedience directly rendered to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and His dwelling among His people. It emphasizes the sacredness of the space and the divine audience for the priestly duties.
Verse Breakdown
"And he lighted the lamps"
This clause describes Moses' direct action of igniting the wicks of the Menorah. This was not a casual act but a ceremonial one, indicating the initiation of the Menorah's function as a perpetual source of light within the Holy Place. It signifies the activation of one of the key elements of the Tabernacle's interior worship space, making it ready for the ongoing priestly duties.
"before the LORD"
This phrase specifies the location and divine audience for Moses' action. The lamps were lit within the Holy Place, a sacred chamber designated for priestly service, directly in the presence of God's symbolic dwelling. This underscores that the act was an offering of service and worship directed towards Yahweh, performed in a consecrated space according to His holy standards.
"as the LORD commanded Moses."
This concluding clause functions as an affirmation of Moses' absolute obedience and fidelity to God's instructions. It reiterates a recurring motif throughout Exodus 40, emphasizing that every detail of the Tabernacle's construction and setup, including the lighting of the lamps, was executed precisely according to the divine blueprint. This highlights the importance of divine revelation as the sole authority for true worship and the establishment of God's dwelling place.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. Repetition is a prominent feature, particularly the phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses," which appears ten times in Exodus 40 alone. This insistent repetition serves to underscore the theme of perfect obedience and fidelity to divine instruction, validating the legitimacy and sacredness of the Tabernacle's construction. Symbolism is also central, with the "lamps" of the Menorah representing God's illuminating presence, truth, and guidance. The act of "lighting" these lamps is therefore symbolic of making God's presence manifest and accessible within the sanctuary. Furthermore, the verse functions as a culmination, marking the completion of a long and detailed process of construction, bringing the Tabernacle to its functional state and setting the stage for the descent of God's glory.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 40:25 powerfully encapsulates the theological principles of divine command, human obedience, and the manifestation of God's presence. The meticulous adherence to God's instructions for the Tabernacle, culminating in the lighting of the lamps, demonstrates that true worship is not self-invented but divinely prescribed. This act of illumination in the Holy Place symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people, providing light, guidance, and truth in their midst. It speaks to the necessity of a consecrated space and consecrated actions for humanity to approach a holy God, foreshadowing the ultimate means of access provided through Christ.
Reflection and Application
Exodus 40:25, though describing an ancient ritual, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that our spiritual lives are not about convenience or personal preference, but about diligent and joyful obedience to God's revealed will. Just as Moses meticulously followed every instruction for the Tabernacle, we are called to align our lives, our worship, and our service with the commands and principles found in God's Word. The continuous light of the Menorah serves as a powerful metaphor for the constant need for God's truth to illuminate our hearts and minds. We are to actively seek His light through prayer, scripture study, and communion, allowing it to guide our steps and expose any darkness within us. Furthermore, as those indwelt by the Holy Spirit, we are called to be "lights in the world" (Philippians 2:15), reflecting the divine light we have received, ensuring our "lamps" are always burning brightly through consistent spiritual nourishment and active faith.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was lighting the lamps such an important act in the Tabernacle?
Lighting the lamps of the Menorah was a crucial act because it initiated the perpetual illumination of the Holy Place, a chamber within the Tabernacle that had no natural light. This continuous light was not merely practical for the priests to perform their duties; it was profoundly symbolic. It represented God's constant, illuminating presence among His people, His unchanging truth, and His perpetual guidance. As commanded in Leviticus 24:2-4, the lamps were to burn continually, signifying an unbroken communion and the enduring availability of God's light in the midst of His covenant people. It was a visible sign that God was indeed dwelling with them and providing spiritual clarity.
What is the significance of the phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses"?
The phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" is a recurring refrain throughout Exodus 40, appearing ten times in this chapter alone. Its significance lies in emphasizing the absolute fidelity and meticulous obedience with which Moses and the Israelites constructed and set up the Tabernacle. It underscores that every detail, every furnishing, and every ritual was not of human design or preference, but directly from divine revelation. This repetition serves to validate the Tabernacle's sacredness and functionality, ensuring it was a dwelling place truly consecrated to Yahweh according to His precise will. It highlights the principle that true worship and service to God must be according to His revealed Word, not human invention.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 40:25, with Moses lighting the Tabernacle lamps "before the LORD," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus, who is the true and eternal Light of the World. The physical light of the Menorah, though essential for the Old Covenant sanctuary, was but a shadow of the spiritual illumination brought by Christ. Jesus declared, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" and "I am the true light, which gives light to everyone, coming into the world". He not only illuminates the path to God but is the very presence of God made manifest, a greater reality than the symbolic light in the Tabernacle. While the Old Covenant priests tended the lamps daily, Christ, as our Great High Priest (as described in Hebrews 4:14-16), perpetually intercedes for us and ensures that the light of God's truth and grace shines eternally. The obedience of Moses in lighting the lamps foreshadows the perfect obedience of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and established a new and living way into the very presence of God, not through a physical sanctuary, but through His own body (as seen in Hebrews 10:19-20).