And Aaron did so: he set up its lamps in front of the lampstand, as the LORD commanded Moses.
Directions were given long before this for the making of the golden candlestick (Exo 25:31), and it was made according to the pattern shown to Moses in the mount, Exo 38:17. But now it was that the lamps were first ordered to be lighted, when other things began to be used. Observe, 1. Who must light the lamps; Aaron himself, he lighted the lamps, Num 8:3.
Commenting on Numbers 8:1-4
And Aaron did so, he lighted the lamps thereof over against the candlestick,.... As God had taken up his residence in the most holy place, as appears by the voice speaking from off the mercy seat, Num 7:89; and sacrifices were begun to be offered in the outward court on the altar of burnt offering, it was proper that the service of God in the...
Num 8:1-4 Consecration of the Levites. - The command of God to consecrate the Levites for their service, is introduced in Num 8:1-4 by directions issued to Aaron with regard to the lighting of the candlestick in the dwelling of the tabernacle. Aaron was to place the seven lamps upon the candlestick in such a manner that they would shine פּניו אל־מוּל.
Commenting on Numbers 8:1-4