Exodus 37:19
Three bowls made after the fashion of almonds in one branch, a knop and a flower; and three bowls made like almonds in another branch, a knop and a flower: so throughout the six branches going out of the candlestick.
Exodus 37:19 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes the intricate design of the golden candlestick, which was to be placed in the tabernacle as part of the furniture. The candlestick was made entirely of pure gold and had a central shaft with six branches extending from it. Each branch had three almond-shaped bowls, a knop, and a flower, all artistically crafted out of gold. This design was not only beautiful but also held symbolic significance. The almond-shaped bowls were believed to represent God's watchfulness and protection, as the almond tree is the first to bloom in Israel. The knop and the flower symbolized growth and beauty, reminding believers of God's provision and grace. The symmetry and attention to detail in the candlestick's design were meant to reflect the perfection and orderliness of God's creation and His divine presence among His people.
Theological Overview
The verse in question describes the construction of the golden candlestick in the tabernacle, as outlined in the book of Exodus. The use of the almond shape is significant in Biblical symbolism. Almonds were considered a symbol of watchfulness and promise due to the fact that they bloom early in the spring. This imagery is connected to God's watchful and faithful nature towards His people. The repetition of the almond shape on each branch emphasizes the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating the candlestick, highlighting the importance of precision and beauty in the service of God. The inclusion of the knop (or bud) and flower further emphasizes the idea of growth and beauty in representing the light of God's presence. Overall, this verse offers a rich theological interpretation of the candlestick as a symbol of God's constant presence and faithfulness to His people, as well as the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail in worship.
Exodus 37:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
three cups made like almond-blossoms in one branch, a knop and a flower, and three cups made like almond-blossoms in the other branch, a knop and a flower: so for the six branches going out of the candlestick.
World English Bible
three cups made like almond blossoms in one branch, a bud and a flower, and three cups made like almond blossoms in the other branch, a bud and a flower: so for the six branches going out of the lamp stand.
Douay-Rheims
Three cups in manner of a nut on each branch, and bowls withal and lilies: and three cups of the fashion of a nut in another branch, and bowls withal and lilies. The work of the six branches, that went out from the shaft of the candlestick was equal.
Geneva Bible (1599)
In one branche three bolles made like almondes, a knop and a floure: and in another branch three bolles made like almondes, a knop and a floure: and so throughout the sixe branches that proceeded out of the Candlesticke.