Exodus 37:21
New International Version
One bud was under the first pair of branches extending from the lampstand, a second bud under the second pair, and a third bud under the third pair—six branches in all.

New Living Translation
There was an almond bud beneath each pair of branches where the six branches extended from the center stem, all made of one piece.

English Standard Version
and a calyx of one piece with it under each pair of the six branches going out of it.

Berean Standard Bible
A bud was under the first pair of branches that extended from the lampstand, a bud under the second pair, and a bud under the third pair.

King James Bible
And a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, according to the six branches going out of it.

New King James Version
There was a knob under the first two branches of the same, a knob under the second two branches of the same, and a knob under the third two branches of the same, according to the six branches extending from it.

New American Standard Bible
and a bulb was under the first pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the second pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the third pair of branches coming out of it, for the six branches coming out of the lampstand.

NASB 1995
and a bulb was under the first pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the second pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the third pair of branches coming out of it, for the six branches coming out of the lampstand.

NASB 1977
and a bulb was under the first pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the second pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the third pair of branches coming out of it, for the six branches coming out of the lampstand.

Legacy Standard Bible
and a bulb was under the first pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the second pair of branches coming out of it, and a bulb under the third pair of branches coming out of it, for the six branches coming out of the lampstand.

Amplified Bible
and a calyx was under the first pair of branches coming out of it, and a calyx under the second pair of branches, coming out of it, and a calyx under the third pair of branches coming out of it, for the six branches coming out of the lampstand.

Christian Standard Bible
For the six branches that extended from it, a bud was under the first pair of branches from it, a bud under the second pair of branches from it, and a bud under the third pair of branches from it.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
For the six branches that extended from it, a calyx was under the first pair of branches from it, a calyx under the second pair of branches from it, and a calyx under the third pair of branches from it.

American Standard Version
and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of it.

Contemporary English Version
There was also a blossom where each pair of branches came out from the stem.

English Revised Version
and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of it.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
There was a bud under each of the three pairs of branches coming out of the lamp stand.

Good News Translation
There was one bud below each of the three pairs of branches.

International Standard Version
A calyx was under the two branches that extended out of the stem; a calyx was under the next pair of branches that extended out of the stem; and a calyx was under the last pair of branches that extended out of the stem, and so on for the six branches extending from the lamp stand.

NET Bible
with a bud under the first two branches from it, and a bud under the next two branches from it, and a bud under the third two branches from it; according to the six branches that extended from it.

New Heart English Bible
and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of it.

Webster's Bible Translation
And a knob under two branches of the same, and a knob under two branches of the same, and a knob under two branches of the same, according to the six branches proceeding from it.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
A bud was under the first pair of branches that extended from the lampstand, a bud under the second pair, and a bud under the third pair.

World English Bible
and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, and a bud under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of it.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and a knob under the two branches of the same, and a knob under the two branches of the same, and a knob under the two branches of the same, [are] for the six branches which are coming out of it;

Young's Literal Translation
and a knop under the two branches of the same, and a knop under the two branches of the same, and a knop under the two branches of the same, are to the six branches which are coming out of it;

Smith's Literal Translation
And a chaplet under two stems out of it, and a chaplet under two stems out of it, and a chaplet under two stems out of it, for the six stems coming forth out of it.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And bowls under two branches in three places, which together make six branches going out from one shaft.

Catholic Public Domain Version
and little spheres under two branches in three places, which together made six branches proceeding from one bar.

New American Bible
The six branches that went out from the menorah had a knob under each pair.

New Revised Standard Version
There was a calyx of one piece with it under the first pair of branches, a calyx of one piece with it under the next pair of branches, and a calyx of one piece with it under the last pair of branches.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And a bud under two branches of the same, and a bud under two branches of the same, and a bud under two branches of the same; likewise for the six branches going out of the candlestick.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the lilies, the fruit under two branches of it, and the fruit under two branches of it, and the fruit under two branches of it; in this way for the six branches that come out from the lamp stand.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, and a knop under two branches of one piece with it, for the six branches going out of it.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And as to their lamps, which are on the ends, knops proceeded from them; and sockets proceeding from them, that the lamps might be upon them; and the seventh socket, on the top of the candlestick, on the summit above, entirely of solid gold.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Lampstand
20And on the lampstand were four cups shaped like almond blossoms with buds and petals. 21A bud was under the first pair of branches that extended from the lampstand, a bud under the second pair, and a bud under the third pair. 22The buds and branches were all of one piece with the lampstand, hammered out of pure gold.…

Cross References
Exodus 25:31-40
Then you are to make a lampstand of pure, hammered gold. It shall be made of one piece, including its base and shaft, its cups, and its buds and petals. / Six branches are to extend from the sides of the lampstand—three on one side and three on the other. / There are to be three cups shaped like almond blossoms on the first branch, each with buds and petals, three on the next branch, and the same for all six branches that extend from the lampstand. ...

Numbers 8:4
This is how the lampstand was constructed: it was made of hammered gold from its base to its blossoms, fashioned according to the pattern the LORD had shown Moses.

1 Kings 7:49
the lampstands of pure gold in front of the inner sanctuary, five on the right side and five on the left; the gold flowers, lamps, and tongs;

2 Chronicles 4:20
the lampstands of pure gold and their lamps, to burn in front of the inner sanctuary as prescribed;

Zechariah 4:2
“What do you see?” he asked. “I see a solid gold lampstand,” I replied, “with a bowl at the top and seven lamps on it, with seven spouts to the lamps.

Hebrews 9:2
A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were the lampstand, the table, and the consecrated bread. This was called the Holy Place.

Revelation 1:12-13
Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned, I saw seven golden lampstands, / and among the lampstands was One like the Son of Man, dressed in a long robe, with a golden sash around His chest.

Revelation 1:20
This is the mystery of the seven stars you saw in My right hand and of the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

Revelation 2:1
“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of Him who holds the seven stars in His right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.

Revelation 11:4
These witnesses are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth.

Exodus 26:35
And place the table outside the veil on the north side of the tabernacle, and put the lampstand opposite the table, on the south side.

Leviticus 24:4
He shall tend the lamps on the pure gold lampstand before the LORD continually.

1 Samuel 3:3
Before the lamp of God had gone out, Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was located.

2 Chronicles 13:11
Every morning and every evening they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense to the LORD. They set out the rows of showbread on the ceremonially clean table, and every evening they light the lamps of the gold lampstand. We are carrying out the requirements of the LORD our God, while you have forsaken Him.

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.


Treasury of Scripture

And a bud under two branches of the same, and a bud under two branches of the same, and a bud under two branches of the same, according to the six branches going out of it.

Exodus 25:35
And there shall be a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, according to the six branches that proceed out of the candlestick.

Jump to Previous
Branch Branches Bud Bulb Capital Extending First Knob Knop Lampstand Pair Piece Proceeding Second Six Thereof Third
Jump to Next
Branch Branches Bud Bulb Capital Extending First Knob Knop Lampstand Pair Piece Proceeding Second Six Thereof Third
Exodus 37
1. The ark and mercy seat with cherubim made
10. The table of showbread with its vessels
17. The candlestick with its lamps and instruments
25. The altar of incense
29. The anointing oil and sweet incense














A bud was under the first pair of branches that extended from the lampstand
The design of the lampstand, or menorah, is significant in its symbolism and craftsmanship. The "bud" here refers to the almond blossom, which is a recurring motif in the design of the lampstand. The almond tree is one of the first to bloom in Israel, symbolizing watchfulness and awakening. This imagery is fitting for the lampstand, which provides light, symbolizing God's presence and guidance. The lampstand itself was made of pure gold, emphasizing its sacred purpose in the Tabernacle, where it stood in the Holy Place. The branches extending from the central shaft represent the unity and diversity of God's people, with the buds symbolizing life and growth.

a bud under the second pair
The repetition of the design with a bud under each pair of branches highlights the meticulous and intentional craftsmanship commanded by God. Each pair of branches with its corresponding bud signifies completeness and order, reflecting the divine nature of God's instructions. The menorah's structure, with its central shaft and three pairs of branches, can be seen as a representation of the Tree of Life, connecting it to the Garden of Eden and the promise of eternal life. The menorah's light, fueled by pure olive oil, symbolizes the Holy Spirit, who illuminates and empowers believers.

and a bud under the third pair
The third pair of branches completes the symmetrical design of the menorah, with each bud reinforcing the theme of life and continuity. The number three often signifies divine perfection and completeness in biblical numerology. The menorah's seven lamps, with three pairs of branches and a central shaft, create a total of seven lights, a number symbolizing spiritual perfection and God's covenant with humanity. The menorah's light was to burn continually, representing the perpetual presence of God among His people. This imagery foreshadows Jesus Christ, who declared Himself the Light of the World, fulfilling the symbolism of the menorah by bringing spiritual illumination and life to all who believe in Him.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the lampstand, according to the divine pattern given to Moses.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings from God on Mount Sinai.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, where the lampstand was placed in the Holy Place.

4. The Lampstand (Menorah)
A sacred object made of pure gold, designed with branches and buds, symbolizing light and life, and placed in the Tabernacle.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, for whom the Tabernacle was constructed as a place of worship and divine encounter.
Teaching Points
Symbolism of Light
The lampstand represents God's light and presence among His people. As Christians, we are called to reflect His light in the world.

Divine Design
The detailed instructions for the lampstand highlight the importance of following God's design and purpose in our lives.

Spiritual Growth
The buds on the lampstand symbolize growth and fruitfulness. Believers are encouraged to grow in their faith and bear spiritual fruit.

Unity in Diversity
The branches of the lampstand, though distinct, are part of one structure. This reflects the unity and diversity within the body of Christ.

Holiness and Purity
Made of pure gold, the lampstand signifies the holiness and purity required in our relationship with God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Exodus 37:21?

2. How does Exodus 37:21 reflect God's detailed instructions for worship?

3. What significance do the almond blossoms hold in Exodus 37:21's design?

4. How does the lampstand's design in Exodus 37:21 connect to John 8:12?

5. How can we implement the principle of divine order in our worship today?

6. What does the craftsmanship in Exodus 37:21 teach about serving God with excellence?

7. What is the significance of the almond blossoms in Exodus 37:21?

8. How does Exodus 37:21 reflect God's design for the Tabernacle?

9. Why are lampstands important in the context of Exodus 37:21?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 37?

11. What does the menorah symbolize?

12. Exodus 37:17-24: Could a single gold talent realistically be fashioned into a single lampstand with six branches and intricate decorations as described?

13. How historically feasible was it for the Israelites to keep the lamps burning continually (Leviticus 24:2) given their technological limitations?

14. What is the biblical significance of the lampstand?
What Does Exodus 37:21 Mean
A bud was under the first pair of branches that extended from the lampstand

Exodus 37:21 opens with careful attention to the very first set of branches, mirroring the instruction in Exodus 25:33, “On one branch there are to be three cups shaped like almond blossoms with buds and petals.” By reproducing the original blueprint without deviation, Bezalel demonstrates that God’s pattern is perfect and warrants precise obedience (Exodus 39:42–43).

• The single “bud” portrays potential—life on the verge of opening. Against the backdrop of the wilderness tabernacle, this decorative detail points to God’s intent that His people flourish in a barren place (Numbers 17:8).

• The lampstand itself prefigures Christ, “the true light that gives light to everyone” (John 1:9), while the first pair of branches hints at the first disciples who would carry that light (Mark 6:7).


A bud under the second pair

• Repetition deepens the lesson: every branch, not merely the first, carries identical promise. God’s provision is consistent (Malachi 3:6).

• In Zechariah’s vision of a lampstand supplied by two olive trees (Zechariah 4:2–3), the prophet learns that God’s work succeeds “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). The recurring buds in Exodus anticipate that Spirit-empowered supply.

• The twin branches also remind us of the two tablets of the covenant housed nearby (Exodus 31:18). Light and law belong together; revelation is always meant to illuminate obedience (Psalm 19:8).


A bud under the third pair

• With six branches total (three pairs), the pattern reaches completion, echoing the six days of creation (Genesis 2:1). The buds announce that the Creator who once brought forth life out of nothing still brings life into worship.

Revelation 1:12–13 describes “seven golden lampstands” among which the risen Christ walks. The final pair in Exodus points forward to this complete, perfected witness—branches joined to a central shaft yet spreading light worldwide (Matthew 5:14–16).

• That every branch receives a bud affirms the believer’s personal calling to bear fruit (John 15:4–8). None are ornamental only; all are intended to blossom.


summary

Exodus 37:21 highlights three identical buds placed beneath each of the lampstand’s branch pairs. These details underscore God’s insistence on exact obedience, His promise of life in unlikely places, and the universal call for every bearer of His light to flourish. Together they point from the tabernacle’s golden artwork to Christ, the Light of the world, and to His people who shine with Him.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
A bud
וְכַפְתֹּ֡ר (wə·ḵap̄·tōr)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3730: Capital, knob, bulb

was under
תַּחַת֩ (ta·ḥaṯ)
Preposition
Strong's 8478: The bottom, below, in lieu of

the first pair
שְׁנֵ֨י (šə·nê)
Number - mdc
Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number)

of branches
הַקָּנִים֙ (haq·qā·nîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 7070: A reed, a, rod, shaft, tube, stem, the radius, beam

that extended
הַיֹּצְאִ֖ים (hay·yō·ṣə·’îm)
Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 3318: To go, bring, out, direct and proxim

from [the lampstand],
מִמֶּ֗נָּה (mim·men·nāh)
Preposition | third person feminine singular
Strong's 4480: A part of, from, out of

a bud
וְכַפְתֹּר֙ (wə·ḵap̄·tōr)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3730: Capital, knob, bulb

under
תַּ֣חַת (ta·ḥaṯ)
Preposition
Strong's 8478: The bottom, below, in lieu of

the second pair,
שְׁנֵ֤י (šə·nê)
Number - mdc
Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number)

and a bud
וְכַפְתֹּ֕ר (wə·ḵap̄·tōr)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3730: Capital, knob, bulb

under
תַּֽחַת־ (ta·ḥaṯ-)
Preposition
Strong's 8478: The bottom, below, in lieu of

the third pair.
שְׁנֵ֥י (šə·nê)
Number - mdc
Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number)


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OT Law: Exodus 37:21 And a bud under two branches (Exo. Ex)
Exodus 37:20
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