have “lamp,” by which the word is elsewhere frequently rendered. The
Hebrew word denotes properly any kind of candle or lamp or torch. It is
used as a figure of conscience (Proverbs 20:27), of a Christian example
(Matthew 5:14, 15), and of prosperity (Job 21:17; Proverbs 13:9).
- CANDLESTICK the lamp-stand, “candelabrum,” which Moses was
commanded to make for the tabernacle, according to the pattern shown
him. Its form is described in Exodus 25:31-40; 37:17-24, and may be seen
represented on the Arch of Titus at Rome. It was among the spoils taken
by the Romans from the temple of Jerusalem (A.D. 70). It was made of
fine gold, and with the utensils belonging to it was a talent in weight.
The tabernacle was a tent without windows, and thus artificial light was
needed. This was supplied by the candlestick, which, however, served also
as a symbol of the church or people of God, who are “the light of the
world.” The light which “symbolizes the knowledge of God is not the sun
or any natural light, but an artificial light supplied with a specially
prepared oil; for the knowledge of God is in truth not natural nor common
to all men, but furnished over and above nature.”
This candlestick was placed on the south side of the Holy Place, opposite
the table of shewbread (Exodus 27:21; 30:7, 8; Leviticus 24:3; 1 Samuel
3:3). It was lighted every evening, and was extinguished in the morning. In
the morning the priests trimmed the seven lamps, borne by the seven
branches, with golden snuffers, carrying away the ashes in golden dishes
(Exodus 25:38), and supplying the lamps at the same time with fresh oil.
What ultimately became of the candlestick is unknown.
In Solomon’s temple there were ten separate candlesticks of pure gold, five
on the right and five on the left of the Holy Place (1 Kings 7:49; 2
Chronicles 4:7). Their structure is not mentioned. They were carried away
to Babylon (Jeremiah 52:19).
In the temple erected after the Exile there was again but one candlestick,
and like the first, with seven branches. It was this which was afterwards
carried away by Titus to Rome, where it was deposited in the Temple of
Peace. When Genseric plundered Rome, he is said to have carried it to
Carthage (A.D. 455). It was recaptured by Belisarius (A.D. 533), and
carried to Constantinople and thence to Jerusalem, where it finally
disappeared.