Almond Blossom

Exodus 37:20: "And on the lampstand were four cups shaped like almond flowers with buds and blossoms."


One wonders why the almond blossom would be the plant of choice by God to be crafted into the golden lampstand in the Holy Place. What truth was God wanting to teach His people by using this tree above all other trees?


First, I believe that we have to see that God used the golden lampstand in the Holy Place as a reminder to the people that the way to God must be by way of the Messiah, the "Light of the World." Just as the lampstand was placed in the area before the Holy of Holies (where the presence of God was found), so too Jesus Christ, who is the Light of Truth and Salvation, is the way by which one can experience eternal fellowship with God. Thus, the golden lampstand was a foreshadowing of the coming Light of the World, namely Jesus Christ (John 8:12), who would bring "spiritual light" in an otherwise darkened world.


Now, the almond tree was one of the earliest blossoms that would come forth in the spring. It had white blooms, signaling that the rebirth of nature was immanent. So we can see that the almond would be the most appropriate representative to be crafted into the golden lampstand. God determined that the almond blossom should be used, for Christ, our Light of Salvation, initiates rebirth for mankind through the initiatory work of His death and resurrection. His "bloom" signals that resurrection and renewal are possible for all of those who will submit to Him as Lord and Savior. The white color of the almond bloom is appropriate as it signals renewal in purity. When Christ ushers us to "rebirth" in Him, we are declared righteous because of His work of redemption, and we are infused with the blessedness of the Holy Spirit, through whom we are able to live lives of obedience and purity to the Lord.