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 37:18KJV
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Exodus 37:18 (KJV)

What does Exodus 37:18 mean?

Exodus 37:18 describes how the lampstand (the menorah) for the tabernacle was constructed with six branches extending from its sides—three branches on one side and three on the other. This verse gives a specific detail about the design, showing that the lampstand was not just a single shaft but had symmetrical branches.

This verse is part of the instructions being carried out by Bezalel, the craftsman chosen by Moses to build the tabernacle’s furnishings. The focus here is on the physical structure of the menorah, which would later hold the lamps that provided light in the holy place. The careful description emphasizes the importance of following God’s detailed instructions for worship and the tabernacle’s sacred objects.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 37:18

  • The word for "branches" (קָנֶה, qaneh) refers to stalks or arms, highlighting that these are extensions from the main shaft, not separate pieces.
  • The word for "sides" (צֵלָע, tsela) means "side" or "rib," suggesting the branches came out laterally, giving the menorah its distinctive shape.
  • The word for "candlestick" (מְנוֹרָה, menorah) is the specific term for this lampstand, which became an enduring symbol in Jewish tradition.

Why Exodus 37:18 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the menorah was designed with symmetry and intentionality, not as a random or improvised object.
  • The detailed description connects to earlier instructions in Exodus, showing the faithfulness of the builders in following God’s commands exactly.
  • Understanding the structure of the menorah helps readers visualize the tabernacle’s interior and appreciate the craftsmanship involved in Israel’s worship practices.

Where else these words appear

“sides” Hebrew H6654 · used in 27 verses

  • Genesis 6:16 A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it.
  • Joshua 12:9 The king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai, which is beside Bethel, one;
  • 2 Samuel 13:34 But Absalom fled. And the young man that kept the watch lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came much people by the way of the hill side behind him.

“candlestick” Hebrew H4501 · used in 31 verses

  • Exodus 25:31 And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.
  • 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.
  • Numbers 8:4 And this work of the candlestick was of beaten gold, unto the shaft thereof, unto the flowers thereof, was beaten work: according unto the pattern which the LORD had shewed Moses, so he made the candlestick.

“branches” Hebrew H7070 · used in 38 verses

  • Genesis 41:5 And he slept and dreamed the second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up upon one stalk, rank and good.
  • 1 Kings 14:15 For the LORD shall smite Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water, and he shall root up Israel out of this good land, which he gave to their fathers, and shall scatter them beyond the river, because they have made their groves, provoking the LORD to anger.
  • Jeremiah 6:20 To what purpose cometh there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet unto me.