Exodus 40:4

KJV

And thou shalt bring in the table, and set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it; and thou shalt bring in the candlestick, and light the lamps thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt bring {H935} in the table {H7979}, and set in order {H6186} the things that are to be set in order {H6187} upon it; and thou shalt bring {H935} in the candlestick {H4501}, and light {H5927} the lamps {H5216} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

Bring in the table, and arrange its display. Bring in the menorah, and light its lamps.

Berean Standard Bible

Then bring in the table and set out its arrangement; bring in the lampstand as well, and set up its lamps.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt bring in the table, and set in order the things that are upon it; and thou shalt bring in the candlestick, and light the lamps thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 40:4 meticulously details God's precise instructions to Moses for furnishing the Holy Place within the newly completed Tabernacle, specifically focusing on the placement and arrangement of the Table of Showbread and the Menorah. This verse signifies the culmination of God's elaborate design for a portable sanctuary and Moses' unwavering obedience in preparing a sacred dwelling for the Lord among His people. The careful arrangement of these articles underscores God's demand for order, holiness, and reverence in worship, symbolizing His perpetual provision and illuminating presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 40 serves as the climactic conclusion to the book of Exodus, bringing to fruition the grand narrative of Israel's deliverance from Egyptian bondage, the covenant at Sinai, and the detailed blueprint for God's dwelling place. Verses 1-33 meticulously recount Moses' faithful adherence to every divine command, from the erection of the Tabernacle's framework to the hanging of its curtains and the placement of its sacred articles. This particular verse focuses on the interior furnishings of the Holy Place, immediately preceding the anointing of the Tabernacle and its priests in [Exodus 40:9-15](/exodus/40-9-15 "Exodus 40:9-15 - Anointing the Tabernacle and Priests") and the glorious descent of God's presence that fills the sanctuary in [Exodus 40:34-38](/exodus/40-34-38 "Exodus 40:34-38 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle"). The pervasive refrain "as the Lord commanded Moses" throughout the chapter emphasizes the perfect obedience required and rendered in establishing God's dwelling among His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle occurred in the wilderness, a nomadic environment where a portable sanctuary was indispensable for Israel's journey. This tent-like structure became the central hub of Israelite worship and communal life, symbolizing God's immanent presence among His chosen people. In the broader ancient Near Eastern context, temples were understood as the earthly abodes of deities, and their precise construction and furnishing were believed to be vital for inviting and maintaining divine presence. The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle, including the items mentioned in this verse, reflect Yahweh's unique holiness and His desire for a covenantal relationship with His redeemed people, but on His own terms. Unlike pagan temples built to appease capricious gods, the Tabernacle was a sacred space where a holy God condescended to dwell with a redeemed people, establishing a unique relationship. The articles within, such as the Table of Showbread and the Menorah, were not merely decorative but held profound symbolic and functional significance within Israel's cultic practices, representing God's provision, guidance, and the path to His presence.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Order and Holiness**, emphasizing God's meticulousness and His demand for precision in all matters related to His worship. Every detail of the Tabernacle's construction and furnishing was divinely ordained, underscoring that access to a holy God requires adherence to His specific commands. Secondly, the verse reinforces the theme of **God's Dwelling Among His People**, demonstrating His desire for intimate fellowship with Israel, a desire that culminates in the filling of the Tabernacle with His glory at the chapter's end. Thirdly, the items themselves represent **God's Provision and Illumination**: the Table of Showbread speaks to His sustenance, while the Menorah symbolizes His light and guidance. Moses' faithful execution of these commands exemplifies the theme of **Obedience to Divine Command**, a recurring motif throughout the book, particularly evident in [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - The Priestly Garments and Tabernacle Completed") and [Exodus 40](/exodus/40 "Exodus 40 - The Tabernacle Erected and Filled with Glory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Table (Hebrew, _shulchân'_):** Derived from H7979, this term refers specifically to the Table of Showbread, a piece of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold, positioned on the north side of the Holy Place. It was designed to hold twelve loaves of unleavened bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, perpetually set before the Lord. While the term broadly means "table" (as spread out), in this sacred context, it denotes a specific liturgical furnishing central to Israel's covenant worship.
* **Set in order (Hebrew, _ʻârak'_):** From H6186, this primitive root means "to set in a row, i.e. arrange, put in order." The phrase "set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it" (using the related noun H6187, _ʻêrek_, meaning "a pile, equipment, estimate") implies a deliberate, precise, and systematic placement, not merely a casual deposition. This highlights the divine demand for meticulousness, reverence, and ritual exactitude in handling sacred objects and in approaching God's presence.
* **Light (Hebrew, _ʻâlâh'_):** From H5927, this primitive root means "to ascend" or "to cause to ascend." In this context, "light the lamps thereof" uses _ʻâlâh_ to denote causing the light to ascend or go up, implying the act of kindling or igniting the wicks so that the light would shine forth. This verb emphasizes the active role of the priest in maintaining the constant illumination of the Menorah, which was essential for the functioning of the Holy Place and symbolized God's ever-present guidance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt bring in the table":** This instruction commands Moses to physically transport the Table of Showbread into the Holy Place. Its designated position on the north side of the sanctuary signifies the establishment of God's tangible provision within His dwelling place, ready for the priestly service.
* **"and set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it":** This clause refers to the precise arrangement of the twelve loaves of showbread (also known as "bread of the Presence"), which were to be laid out in two stacks of six, accompanied by bowls of frankincense. This was a perpetual offering, symbolizing God's unwavering provision for Israel's sustenance and Israel's continuous presence before God. The emphasis on "setting in order" underscores the ritual precision and intentionality demanded by God for His worship.
* **"and thou shalt bring in the candlestick":** Moses is further commanded to bring the Menorah, the seven-branched lampstand made of pure hammered gold, into the Holy Place. Its placement on the south side, opposite the Table of Showbread, was crucial for providing the sole source of illumination within the sacred chamber.
* **"and light the lamps thereof":** This final command specifies the priestly duty of ensuring that the lamps of the Menorah were continually kindled and maintained, burning from evening until morning. The constant light was indispensable for the priests performing their duties in the Holy Place and served as a powerful, enduring symbol of God's illuminating presence, divine truth, and spiritual guidance for His people.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 40:4 is rich with significant literary devices that amplify its theological weight. **Symbolism** is paramount, as each item mentioned—the Table of Showbread and the Menorah—is imbued with profound theological meaning. The Table, with its perpetual bread, symbolizes God's unfailing provision for His people and the enduring covenant relationship that sustains Israel. The Menorah, with its constant light, symbolizes God's divine presence as the ultimate source of truth, guidance, and spiritual illumination in a world of darkness. The meticulous detail in the instructions throughout Exodus, culminating in this verse, also highlights the device of **Repetition** of the theme of divine command and human obedience, reinforcing the absolute importance of adhering precisely to God's revealed will. Furthermore, the entire act of setting up the Tabernacle, including these specific furnishings, functions as **Foreshadowing**, pointing forward to God's ultimate dwelling among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ and the spiritual realities of the New Covenant that transcend the physical types.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 40:4, though a seemingly straightforward instruction, is profoundly significant theologically. It speaks volumes about God's orderly nature, His fervent desire for structured and reverent worship, and His unwavering commitment to dwelling intimately among His people. The Table of Showbread powerfully represents God's faithful provision for the physical and spiritual sustenance of His people, while the Menorah signifies His indispensable role as the source of all light, truth, and understanding, guiding His people through the wilderness of life. The meticulous obedience required of Moses in arranging these sacred elements underscores the fundamental principle that approaching a holy God demands intentionality, precision, and profound reverence, reflecting His perfect character and sovereign authority. This careful preparation was not arbitrary but essential for the manifestation of God's glory, establishing a foundational pattern for how humanity can draw near to the divine presence.

* [Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5-9 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Law of the Showbread")
* [Numbers 8:1-4](/numbers/8-1-4 "Numbers 8:1-4 - The Lighting of the Lamps")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1-5 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - The Earthly Sanctuary and Its Furnishings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed instructions and Moses' faithful execution in Exodus 40:4 serve as a profound call to consider the intentionality and reverence with which we approach God in our own lives and in corporate worship. Just as every item in the Tabernacle had its precise place and sacred purpose, our spiritual lives should be marked by divine order, clear purpose, and a conscious, abiding awareness of God's holy presence. The powerful symbols of provision (the showbread) and illumination (the Menorah) serve as timeless reminders that God is our ultimate sustainer and our infallible guide. We are invited to live in constant, humble reliance on His abundant provision and to walk perpetually in the radiant light of His truth, allowing Him to illuminate every step of our paths. Our lives, as temples of the Holy Spirit, should be thoughtfully "set in order" to honor Him, reflecting His character, and actively welcoming His indwelling presence. This requires disciplined spiritual practices, an unwavering commitment to biblical truth, and a heart of worship that prioritizes His glory above all else.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to "set things in order" to better honor God and more fully welcome His transforming presence?**
* **How do you currently experience God as your spiritual sustenance (like the showbread) and as the light that guides your path (like the Menorah)?**
* **What does the meticulous detail required for the Tabernacle teach you about the profound importance of intentionality and reverence in your personal worship and daily walk with God?**

### FAQ

**What was the purpose of the Table of Showbread and the Menorah in the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The Table of Showbread, positioned on the north side of the Holy Place, held twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Its purpose was to symbolize God's continuous provision for His people and their perpetual presence before Him in covenant relationship. The Menorah, or golden lampstand, was placed on the south side and served as the sole source of light within the Holy Place. It symbolized God as the ultimate source of all spiritual light, truth, and understanding, illuminating the path for His people and signifying His constant, guiding presence. Both items were integral to the daily priestly service and deeply symbolic of the profound covenant relationship between God and Israel, as detailed in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle Furnishings").

**Why was such meticulous detail required for setting up the Tabernacle and its furnishings?**

Answer: The meticulous detail in setting up the Tabernacle, as vividly recounted in [Exodus 40](/exodus/40 "Exodus 40 - The Tabernacle Erected and Filled with Glory"), underscored several crucial theological principles. Firstly, it emphasized God's absolute holiness and His demand for reverence, precision, and purity in all matters related to His worship and presence. Secondly, it highlighted the perfect obedience required of Moses and, by extension, of Israel, demonstrating that God's presence is contingent upon faithful adherence to His divine commands. Thirdly, every single detail was divinely inspired and carried profound symbolic meaning, pointing to deeper spiritual truths and ultimately foreshadowing the perfect redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The precision ensured that the earthly Tabernacle truly reflected the heavenly pattern revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai, as affirmed in [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "The Heavenly Pattern").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 40:4, with its focus on the Table of Showbread and the Menorah, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Table of Showbread, symbolizing God's perpetual provision and Israel's covenant presence before Him, powerfully foreshadows Jesus as the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"). He is the true, living sustenance descended from heaven, offering eternal life to all who believe, thereby ensuring our perpetual, unhindered presence before God through His perfect sacrifice. Similarly, the Menorah, the sole source of light in the Holy Place, points directly to Jesus as the [Light of the World](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"). He illuminates the pervasive darkness of sin and spiritual ignorance, revealing the Father in His fullness and guiding humanity into saving truth and eternal salvation. Just as the Tabernacle was God's tangible dwelling place among His people, Jesus is [Immanuel, God with us](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us"), the ultimate fulfillment of God's profound desire to dwell intimately among humanity. Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, He became the true and perfect temple, and now, by His indwelling Spirit, He makes believers living temples ([1_corinthians/6-19](/1-corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body, a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). The meticulous order of the Tabernacle points to the perfect order and divine completion of God's redemptive plan in Christ, who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and established a new and living way into God's very presence ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Leviticus 24:8

Every sabbath he shall set it in order before the LORD continually, [being taken] from the children of Israel by an everlasting covenant.

Exodus 40:22

And he put the table in the tent of the congregation, upon the side of the tabernacle northward, without the vail.

Exodus 40:25

And he lighted the lamps before the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Exodus 37:10

¶ And he made the table [of] shittim wood: two cubits [was] the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof:

Exodus 37:24

[Of] a talent of pure gold made he it, and all the vessels thereof.

Exodus 26:35

And thou shalt set the table without the vail, and the candlestick over against the table on the side of the tabernacle toward the south: and thou shalt put the table on the north side.

Exodus 26:36

And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework.