MPV Commentary

How the Lamps Are to Be Lighted.

The Lord spoke to Moses about lighting the lamps in the tabernacle. The instructions were likely given immediately after the Levites had been assigned to assist the priests (see Numbers 3:1-4:49). This delay in recording these instructions allowed for other events in the camp to be described first.

Speak to Aaron, and instruct him to light the seven lamps on the golden candlestick. The candlestick was a massive piece of pure gold with six branches supporting the lamps, plus an additional lamp at its center (Exodus 25:31; 37:17). It was completed according to the pattern shown in the mount. Aaron's task was to light the house of God, which had no windows and required artificial lighting. He was to start by lighting the central lamp from the altar fire, then light the other lamps from each other. This process symbolized how all truth comes from Christ and is spread through His ministers (Revelation 4:5).

The seven lamps will provide light in front of the candlestick, which stood near the sanctuary boards on the south side, opposite the table of showbread on the north (Exodus 26:35). The lamps were positioned to shine both eastward and westward, illuminating all parts of the tabernacle.