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Exodus 39:37 - Pure light's sacred service vessels

Exodus 39:37 - שמות 39:37

Hebrew Text

אֶת־הַמְּנֹרָה הַטְּהֹרָה אֶת־נֵרֹתֶיהָ נֵרֹת הַמַּעֲרָכָה וְאֶת־כָּל־כֵּלֶיהָ וְאֵת שֶׁמֶן הַמָּאוֹר׃

English Translation

the pure candlestick, with its lamps, the lamps to be set in order, and all its vessels, and the oil for light,

Transliteration

Et-hamenorah hatorah et-neroteha nerot hama'aracha ve'et-kol-keileha ve'et shemen hama'or.

Hebrew Leining Text

אֶת־הַמְּנֹרָ֨ה הַטְּהֹרָ֜ה אֶת־נֵרֹתֶ֗יהָ נֵרֹ֛ת הַמַּֽעֲרָכָ֖ה וְאֶת־כׇּל־כֵּלֶ֑יהָ וְאֵ֖ת שֶׁ֥מֶן הַמָּאֽוֹר׃
אֶת־הַמְּנֹרָ֨ה הַטְּהֹרָ֜ה אֶת־נֵרֹתֶ֗יהָ נֵרֹ֛ת הַמַּֽעֲרָכָ֖ה וְאֶת־כׇּל־כֵּלֶ֑יהָ וְאֵ֖ת שֶׁ֥מֶן הַמָּאֽוֹר׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Pure Menorah (הַמְּנֹרָה הַטְּהֹרָה)

The verse describes the Menorah as "pure" (טְהֹרָה), which Rashi explains refers to its construction from a single piece of beaten gold (Exodus 25:31). The purity also alludes to its spiritual symbolism—the Menorah represents the light of Torah and wisdom, which must remain untainted by foreign influences (Rambam, Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 3:10). The Talmud (Menachot 28b) further notes that even its accessories required purity, emphasizing the sanctity of the entire structure.

The Lamps and Their Arrangement (נֵרֹתֶיהָ נֵרֹת הַמַּעֲרָכָה)

The phrase "lamps to be set in order" (נֵרֹת הַמַּעֲרָכָה) refers to the daily duty of the Kohen to arrange the wicks and oil so that the flames would burn brightly. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 15:7) teaches that the six outer lamps were angled toward the central lamp, symbolizing that all wisdom must be directed toward the Divine presence. The Rambam (Hilchot Temidin uMusafin 3:12) details the meticulous care required in this mitzvah, reflecting the importance of consistency in divine service.

The Vessels and Oil (כָּל־כֵּלֶיהָ וְאֵת שֶׁמֶן הַמָּאוֹר)

The "vessels" (כֵּלֶיהָ) included tongs, snuffers, and other utensils used for maintenance, as described in Exodus 25:38. The Talmud (Shabbat 22b) notes that even these seemingly minor items were sanctified for holy use. The "oil for light" (שֶׁמֶן הַמָּאוֹר) had to be pure, pressed from olives, as stated in Exodus 27:20. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 36:1) compares the oil to the Jewish people, who must remain undiluted in their devotion to Torah.

  • Symbolism of Light: The Menorah’s eternal flame represents the continuous presence of Hashem among Israel (Zohar, Terumah 152a).
  • Practical Halacha: The Kohen Gadol was responsible for ensuring the Menorah was lit daily (Rambam, Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 9:7).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Menachot 88b
The verse is discussed in the context of the purity and arrangement of the menorah in the Temple.
📖 Shabbat 22b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the lighting and maintenance of the menorah, particularly in relation to the Sabbath.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the pure menorah in Exodus 39:37?
A: The pure menorah (מְנֹרָה הַטְּהֹרָה) symbolizes the eternal light of Torah and divine wisdom in Jewish tradition. Rashi explains that it had to be made of pure gold, representing purity of heart and intention in serving Hashem. The menorah's light in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) also reminds us of our mission to bring spiritual light into the world.
Q: Why does the verse mention arranging the lamps (נֵרֹת הַמַּעֲרָכָה)?
A: The Talmud (Menachot 88b) teaches that the kohen had to arrange the lamps daily so their wicks would face the center lamp (the western lamp), showing unity. Rambam (Hilchot Temidin u'Musafin 3:12) explains this teaches us about the importance of consistency and proper preparation in divine service.
Q: What was the special oil (שֶׁמֶן הַמָּאוֹר) used for the menorah?
A: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 36:1) states it was pure olive oil, pressed but not crushed, representing the highest quality. This teaches that mitzvot should be performed with the finest materials and intentions. The oil's purity also symbolizes how Torah wisdom must be transmitted clearly and without distortion.
Q: How does the menorah's description apply to us today?
A: Though we no longer have the Temple menorah, the Chofetz Chaim teaches that every Jewish home is like a mini-sanctuary. Just as the menorah brought light to the Mishkan, we bring light through Shabbat candles, Torah study, and good deeds. The arrangement of the lamps also reminds us to direct our actions toward holiness.
Q: Why does the Torah specify all the menorah's vessels (כָּל־כֵּלֶיהָ)?
A: Rashi notes that even the menorah's tongs and ash pans were essential for its service. This teaches that every detail of avodat Hashem (divine service) matters - both the grand gestures and the 'small' maintenance. The Ramban adds that this reflects how every mitzvah, big or small, contributes to our spiritual mission.