Exodus 25:34
ESV
And on the lampstand itself there shall be four cups made like almond blossoms, with their calyxes and flowers,
NIV
And on the lampstand there are to be four cups shaped like almond flowers with buds and blossoms.
NASB
and on the lampstand four cups shaped like almond blossoms, its bulbs and its flowers.
CSB
There are to be four cups shaped like almond blossoms on the lampstand shaft along with its buds and petals.
NLT
Craft the center stem of the lampstand with four lamp cups shaped like almond blossoms, complete with buds and petals.
KJV
And in the candlestick shall be four bowls made like unto almonds, with their knops and their flowers.
NKJV
On the lampstand itself four bowls shall be made like almond blossoms, each with its ornamental knob and flower.
What does Exodus 25:34 mean?
This is part of a sacred candelabra, called a menorāh (Exodus 25:31), created for God's sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). The central shaft of the lampstand has four golden almond blossoms. Each blossom is made of a bud, or "calyx," and a flower. The top blossom holds the light. The others connect to the six branches, three on each side, which hold the other six lamps at their tips. Each branch includes three blossoms (Exodus 25:32–33).The design of this menorah results in a line of seven lights, each supported by a "branch" of segments. The segments extend from almond blossoms and join along the main trunk. Most depictions show an arrangement of three half-circles. Some align the almond blossoms to split the arcs into four sections. A few scholars think the branches should be straight, making the menorah triangular. This unique element has been a famous symbol of Judaism for millennia.
