Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'And he lighted the lamps before the Lord' mean in Exodus 40:25?
A: This verse describes Aharon (Aaron) lighting the Menorah (lampstand) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) exactly as Hashem commanded Moshe. According to Rashi, this teaches us the importance of fulfilling mitzvot (commandments) precisely as instructed, without adding or subtracting.
Q: Why is lighting the Menorah important in Judaism?
A: The Menorah represents wisdom and Divine light. The Rambam explains that its lighting symbolizes the continuous presence of Hashem's guidance. Today, while we no longer have the Temple Menorah, we remember this mitzvah through the Chanukah menorah and the spiritual light of Torah study.
Q: Who lit the Menorah in Exodus 40:25?
A: Aharon the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) lit the Menorah, as part of his priestly duties. The Talmud (Yoma 24b) teaches that this mitzvah was specifically given to the Kohanim (priests), showing their role in bringing spiritual light to the Jewish people.
Q: How does the Menorah commandment apply to us today?
A: While we can't light the Temple Menorah today, the Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 15:7) teaches that every Jew should be like a menorah - spreading light through Torah study and good deeds. The Chanukah menorah also commemorates the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Temple.
Q: What lesson can we learn from 'as the Lord commanded Moshe' in this verse?
A: The Sforno explains that this phrase teaches the importance of performing mitzvot with exactness and devotion. Just as Aharon followed Hashem's instructions precisely through Moshe, we too should strive to fulfill Torah commandments carefully and with proper intent.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Shemot/Exodus 40:25) describes Aharon fulfilling the mitzvah of lighting the menorah in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) exactly as Hashem commanded Moshe. This act symbolizes the dedication of the Mishkan and the beginning of the divine service performed by the Kohanim.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Exodus 40:25) emphasizes that the phrase "as the Lord commanded Moshe" highlights Aharon's complete adherence to the divine instructions. He notes that Aharon did not deviate in any way from what Moshe had taught him, demonstrating the precision required in avodat Hashem (divine service).
Symbolism of the Menorah
The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 3:12) explains that lighting the menorah represents the continuous presence of the Shechinah (Divine Presence) among Israel. The light symbolizes Torah wisdom and spiritual enlightenment, as stated in Mishlei (Proverbs 6:23): "For the commandment is a lamp, and the Torah is light."
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Significance
The Talmud (Menachot 88b) discusses the proper way to kindle the menorah, emphasizing that the wicks must be tilted toward the center lamp (the ner ma'aravi) to show unity in divine service. This detail reinforces the idea that all aspects of avodah must be performed with precision and intent.
Practical Lesson
The Kli Yakar (Exodus 40:25) derives a moral lesson: just as the menorah's light must be kindled faithfully, so too must a Jew strive to illuminate the world with Torah and mitzvot, following divine commandments without alteration.