### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mᵉnôwrâh**, represented by `{{H4501}}`, refers to a **chandelier** or **candlestick**. It appears **40 times** across **31 unique verses** in the Bible. This term primarily denotes the sacred lampstand first constructed for the Tabernacle and later placed in the Temple, serving as a source of light before the Lord.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The construction and use of the **mᵉnôwrâh** are detailed extensively in the Pentateuch. It was to be made of pure, beaten **gold** `{{H2091}}`, complete with a central shaft, branches, bowls, knops, and flowers [[Exodus 25:31]]. Its specific placement was in the tent of the congregation, opposite the **table** `{{H7979}}` ([[Exodus 26:35]], [[Exodus 40:24]]). In Solomon's temple, the single candlestick was replaced by ten **candlesticks** of gold ([[1 Kings 7:49]], [[2 Chronicles 4:7]]). The **candlestick** also appears in a prophetic vision to Zechariah [[Zechariah 4:2]] and is listed among the sacred items carried away to Babylon [[Jeremiah 52:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the construction and function of the **mᵉnôwrâh**:
* `{{H5216}}` **nîyr**: As a **lamp** or light, this is what the **mᵉnôwrâh** was designed to hold. The seven **lamps** were to be placed on the candlestick to give light [[Numbers 8:2]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb**: Meaning **gold**, this material is consistently specified for the candlestick's construction, emphasizing its value and purity [[Exodus 37:17]].
* `{{H7070}}` **qâneh**: This word for a **reed**, stalk, or **branch** describes the arms extending from the central shaft of the candlestick [[Exodus 25:32]].
* `{{H3730}}` **kaphtôr**: Defined as a **knop** or capital, this term refers to the ornamental knobs that were an integral part of the candlestick's design [[Exodus 25:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4501}}` is significant in the context of worship.
* **A Sacred Vessel of Worship:** The **mᵉnôwrâh** was a central element of Tabernacle and Temple worship. Its care was part of the charge given to the Levites, alongside the **ark** `{{H727}}`, the **table** `{{H7979}}`, and the **altars** `{{H4196}}` [[Numbers 3:31]].
* **A Source of Divine Light:** The primary purpose of the **candlestick** was to hold the **lamps** `{{H5216}}` that were to be ordered "before the LORD continually" [[Leviticus 24:4]].
* **Symbol of Divine Command:** The **candlestick** was not of human design but was made "according unto the pattern which the LORD had shewed Moses" [[Numbers 8:4]]. Its specific creation from "pure" and "beaten" **gold** `{{H2091}}` underscores its prescribed holiness [[Exodus 25:31]].
* **A Prophetic Symbol:** In the book of Zechariah, the **candlestick** of gold with its bowl and seven lamps is the subject of a divine vision, indicating its use as a powerful symbol for revealing God's purposes [[Zechariah 4:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **mᵉnôwrâh** is more than just a simple **candlestick**. It is a cornerstone of Israel's worship, a divinely designed vessel crafted from pure **gold** `{{H2091}}` to provide light in God's holy presence. From its detailed construction in Exodus to its symbolic appearance in Zechariah, the **mᵉnôwrâh** represents sacred duty, divine purity, and the perpetual light of God's covenant with His people.
TRV