King James Version

What Does Numbers 8:4 Mean?

“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.”

Context

Speak unto Aaron, and say unto him, When thou lightest the lamps, the seven lamps shall give light over against the candlestick.

And Aaron did so; he lighted the lamps thereof over against the candlestick, as the LORD commanded Moses.

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.

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Take the Levites from among the children of Israel, and cleanse them.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(4) **And this work of the candlestick . . . —**Better, *And this was the work of the candlestick, i.e., *the material of which it was made. **Beaten gold.**—Better, *turned *(or *twisted*)* gold.* **Unto the shaft thereof, unto the flowers thereof.**—Literally, *unto its base, unto its flower or blossom, i.e., *the whole of the candlestick, from its base to its flowers. The several parts of the candlestick, beginning with the base and ending with the flowers, are enumerated in Exodus 25:31.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 8:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.