Exodus 37:18

And six branches going out of the sides thereof; three branches of the candlestick out of the one side thereof, and three branches of the candlestick out of the other side thereof:

Exodus 37:18 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the account of Bezalel building the tabernacle furniture. The preceding line tells how he made the lampstand of pure gold, beaten work from one piece. The following line describes the almond-shaped bowls, knops, and flowers on each branch. Together these lines show that the craftsman followed the pattern God gave to Moses.

Meaning

The verse reports that six branches went out from the sides of the lampstand, three on each side. These branches were not separate pieces attached later. They were hammered out from the same piece of gold as the shaft, so the whole lampstand was one unified object. The number six, with the central shaft, made seven lights. This design gave light in the Holy Place and pictured God’s presence and guidance for His people. The symmetry of the branches also reflects order and beauty in worship.

Biblical connections

This verse fulfills the command in Exodus 25:32, where God told Moses to make the lampstand with six branches. The same careful work appears in the New Testament, where the risen Christ walks among seven golden lampstands, which represent the churches (Revelation 1:12-13, 20). The connection shows that the tabernacle’s light pointed forward to Christ and His people.

Application

Bezalel worked with skill and exact obedience. His careful following of God’s instructions teaches believers to value precision in worship and daily life. The lampstand’s unity reminds us that the church is one body, joined to Christ, and called to shine His light. Just as the lampstand was made of one piece, so believers are united in Christ and should reflect His light together.

Reflection

God notices the details of how His people serve Him. The lampstand was not merely functional; it was beautiful and orderly. As we serve, we can offer our best work, knowing that God delights in faithful craftsmanship and wholehearted obedience.