by
Charles Clyde Hunt
(1912-2003)
The
use of the seven-branched candlestick in the Most Excellent Degree is correct
according to the General Grand Chapter ritual, and has, I believe, an important
symbolical reference in the work of that degree. The Temple plan followed
that of the Tabernacle very closely. We are told in our Masonic work that
the Tabernacle was the model for King Solomon's Temple. The Temple, of
course, permitted greater elaboration than the Tabernacle, but the same general
plan was followed.
The directions for the Tabernacle were given to Moses in the mountain. (Exodus, Chapters 25 to 31.) These directions included the form by which the candlestick was to be made, and Moses was enjoined to see that he followed the pattern there given him. (Exodus 25: 40.) The actual work of making the candlestick was entrusted to Bezaleel (Exodus 31:2-8) and the office was duly performed by him. (Exodus 37:17-24.) The candlestick was to be placed on the south side of the table of shewbread (Exodus 26:35) and lighted by night only. (Exodus 30:8. I Samuel 3:3.) Caldecott says: "When the light of day was no longer able to find its way into the Temple, owing to the double doors and the partition, ten such candlesticks were made, of which five were placed on either side of the Holy Place."
