Exodus 25:40
ESV
And see that you make them after the pattern for them, which is being shown you on the mountain.
NIV
See that you make them according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.
NASB
See that you make them by the pattern for them, which was shown to you on the mountain.
CSB
Be careful to make them according to the pattern you have been shown on the mountain.
NLT
Be sure that you make everything according to the pattern I have shown you here on the mountain.
KJV
And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.
NKJV
And see to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.
What does Exodus 25:40 mean?
This verse summarizes the command to closely follow God's instructions (Exodus 25:9). Israel is camped by Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:1–3). There, they have begun to receive the Mosaic covenant (Exodus 19:5–6). Part of these directions are designs for building a sanctuary (Exodus 25:8). This includes various sacred objects. In this chapter, God has explained the design of a sacred lampstand (Exodus 25:31), a table (Exodus 25:23–24), and an ark (Exodus 25:10–11) which will house stone tablets recording His laws (Exodus 25:22).Other Scriptures echo this command about strict obedience (Exodus 26:30). New Testament writers refer to the Lord's instructions as designs to accurately follow (Acts 7:44; Hebrews 8:5).
Exodus 25:31–40 indicates how Israel is to form a special candelabra for use in the sanctuary. The Hebrew root word used here is menorāh, which many recognize as a seven-branched candlestick still associated with Judaism. This lampstand is pure gold, with three branches on either side of a central piece. Each branch is made of three flower-like shapes with connecting arcs. The result is a pattern famously associated with Judaism.
Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).
