ChristianAnswers.Net WebBible Encyclopedia


  1. That part of the candlesticks of the tabernacle and the temple which bore the light (Exodus 25:37; 1 Kings 7:49; 2 Chronicles 4:20; 13:11; Zechariah 4:2). Their form is not described. Olive oil was generally burned in them (Exodus 27:20).

  2. A torch carried by the soliders of Gideon (Judges 7:16, 20). (Revised Version, “torches.”)

  3. Domestic lamps (Authorized Version, “candles”) were in common use among the Hebrews (Matthew 5:15; Mark 4:21, etc.).

  4. Lamps or torches were used in connection with marriage ceremonies (Matthew 25:1).

This word is also frequently metaphorically used to denote life, welfare, guidance, etc. (2 Samuel 21:17; Psalms 119:105; Proverbs 6:23; 13:9).