25:23-40

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The table and the lamp-stand

(Ex 25:23-40)

These two pieces of furniture were placed opposite each other against the side walls of the Holy Place (see Ex 26:35).

The table was made of wood overlaid with gold, and the vessels associated with it (used in the ceremonies of the Holy Place) were all made of gold (Ex 25:23-29).

On the table were twelve small loaves of bread (called ‘presence bread’) arranged in two rows of six. Each Sabbath the priests placed twelve fresh loaves on the table and ate the old loaves (Lev 24:5-9).

The symbolism of the presence bread is not explained. Possibly it was a reminder that the whole of Israel, in its twelve tribes, lived constantly in the presence of God. God was their provider, and the bread was a fitting and constant acknowledgment of this before him (Ex 25:30).

No dimensions are given for the lampstand. It weighed about thirty-five kilograms, held seven lamps, was made of one piece of gold, and was richly ornamented. Its trays and other utensils were also of gold.

This seven-headed lamp provided continual light in the otherwise dark Holy Place, and was tended by the priests morning and evening (Ex 25:31-40; cf. Ex 27:20-21).