Topical Encyclopedia Gold holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, symbolizing purity, divinity, and wealth. Its use in the construction of sacred objects underscores its importance in the worship and religious practices of the Israelites. The Bible provides numerous references to gold being used in the making of altar lamps and other sacred articles, reflecting its esteemed status and the reverence with which it was regarded.Altar Lamps: In the construction of the Tabernacle, God commanded Moses to use gold extensively, particularly in the crafting of the menorah, or lampstand. The menorah was a vital element within the Holy Place, serving as a source of light and symbolizing the presence of God. Exodus 25:31-39 details the instructions given to Moses: "You are also to make a lampstand of pure gold. The lampstand shall be made of hammered work... Its buds and branches are to be of one piece with it. Six branches are to extend from the sides of the lampstand—three on one side and three on the other." The use of pure gold for the menorah highlights its sacred purpose and the divine light it represents. Other Articles Made of Gold: Beyond the lampstand, gold was used in various other articles within the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The Ark of the Covenant, the table for the Bread of the Presence, and the altar of incense were all adorned with gold. Exodus 25:10-11 describes the Ark: "They are to make an ark of acacia wood... Overlay it with pure gold, both inside and out, and make a gold molding around it." This overlay of gold signified the Ark's holiness and the covenant between God and His people. The altar of incense, as described in Exodus 30:1-3 , was also constructed with gold: "You are to make an altar for the burning of incense; make it of acacia wood... Overlay the top and all the sides and horns with pure gold, and make a gold molding around it." The use of gold in these sacred objects was not merely ornamental but served to set them apart as holy and dedicated to the service of God. Symbolism and Significance: Gold's incorruptible nature made it an apt symbol for the divine and eternal. Its use in the Tabernacle and Temple articles was a constant reminder of God's purity and the sanctity of His dwelling place among His people. The lavish use of gold in these sacred contexts also reflected the Israelites' devotion and the honor due to God. In the New Testament, gold continues to hold symbolic significance. In Revelation, the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem, is described as having streets of pure gold (Revelation 21:21), symbolizing the ultimate purity and glory of God's eternal kingdom. Throughout Scripture, gold remains a powerful symbol of divine presence, purity, and the eternal nature of God's covenant with His people. Its use in altar lamps and other sacred articles underscores the reverence and honor due to God in worship and the sacredness of His dwelling among His people. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 7:48,49-51And Solomon made all the vessels that pertained to the house of the LORD: the altar of gold, and the table of gold, whereupon the show bread was, Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 25:15 Jeremiah 52:19 Ezra 8:27 Daniel 5:3 Library The Copies of Things in the Heavens Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... Final Settlement of the Church by St. John Scriptural Types. Concerning the Lord's Supper Chaldaean Civilization From the Close of the General Conference of 1824 to the ... The Memphite Empire Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources What is the menorah? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does the Bible speak against braided hair? | GotQuestions.org What was the tabernacle of Moses? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |