A golden lampstand

Zechariah 4:1-11 deals with the fifth vision. We will study this passage in three parts. Let us begin with the conclusion. (1) This vision serves as an encouragement to Zerubbabel, the leader of the temple reconstruction. He began the construction of the temple, but the work had stalled along the way. (2) This vision prophesies the restoration of the Jewish nation. Zechariah was awakened from sleep and was shown the fifth vision (v 1). The eight visions in Zechariah were all shown in a single night. “And he said to me, ‘What do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see, and behold, a lampstand all of gold with its bowl on the top of it, and its seven lamps on it with seven spouts belonging to each of the lamps which are on the top of it; also two olive trees by it, one on the right side of the bowl and the other on its left side’” (v 2-3). (1) There is a single lampstand made entirely of gold. This is a device that gives light by means of olive oil (not a candle). (2) The lampstand symbolizes Israel. Israel has been given the mission to be “a light to the nations” (ref. Isa. 62:1-2). (3) Furthermore, the lampstand can also symbolize the Messiah (ref. Isa. 42:6; 49:6). The Messiah also becomes “a light to the Gentiles.”

The two olive trees

On the top of the lampstand there was a “bowl” (a container for the oil), and on the top of that bowl (likely on its rim) were “seven lamps,” each having “seven spouts.” In other words, 7 x 7, a total of 49 spouts, connected the bowl that held the oil to the seven lamps. This indicates that there was an abundant supply of oil. Furthermore, “two olive trees” were placed on the right and left of the lampstand (the bowl). The two olive trees and the container for the oil are connected by two golden pipes (v 12). In order to light the lampstand in the temple, olive oil offered by the people is necessary, but that supply can run short. In contrast, the oil provided by the two olive trees never runs out. This oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit. In other words, the people of Israel will come to fulfill their mission to be “a light to the nations” by the power of the Holy Spirit. Christians have already received “the anointing of the Holy Spirit” (1 John 2:27). Our problem is ignorance, unbelief, and laziness. Let us acknowledge the Holy Spirit who dwells within us and trust in His guidance.