שמות, פרק כ״ה, פסוק ל״ג

The design of the Menorah is a striking blend of engineering precision and visual splendor, serving as a blueprint for divine art. A uniform and permanent pattern of decorations was established for each of the branches extending from the main body of the Menorah. The central feature of these branches consisted of hollow cups or bowls protruding outward [רש״י, רשב״ם, קאסוטו]. Two of these goblets were positioned on the lower portion of each branch, while a third sat at the very top, functioning as the base upon which the lamp itself rested [קאסוטו].

The specific design of these goblets is the subject of varying interpretations. The primary approach views their description as botanical, suggesting they were shaped like almonds or almond blossoms [אבן עזרא בשם הגאון, רשב״ם, קאסוטו, ביאור יש״ר]. However, unlike a natural almond that tapers and closes at its peak, these golden goblets were wide and open at the top [העמק דבר]. A second perspective understands the description as an artistic technique, indicating that the goblets were adorned with raised reliefs, similar to the craftsmanship found on fine gold and silver vessels [רש״י, רשב״ם]. A third view suggests the terminology reflects the intense diligence and care required for their creation, meaning the decorations were crafted with exceptional precision and delicate workmanship [אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. While ancient traditions debate whether this specific design style applied to all the decorations on the branch, the consensus among commentators is that it refers exclusively to the goblets [העמק דבר, רש ר הירש, חתם סופר].

Alongside the goblets, each branch featured a knob and a flower, added to enhance the Menorah's beauty [רשב״ם]. The knob is described as a round, apple-like protrusion [אברבנאל]. Some identify it botanically as the round base beneath a flower that holds the ovary [קאסוטו], while others maintain that its exact shape remains unknown [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The flower was shaped like the open petals of a blossom [קאסוטו, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. According to one unique view, each goblet actually contained both a knob and a flower within it [שד״ל].

To ensure total uniformity, the instructions emphasize that the detailed pattern applies equally to all six branches extending from the center, preventing any misconception that they might differ from one another [הטור הארוך]. In total, across these six branches, there were eighteen almond-shaped goblets, six knobs, and six flowers [מלבי״ם]. Remarkably, all of these complex, intricate decorations were not crafted as separate pieces and attached later. Rather, they were hammered, carved, and formed entirely from one single, solid block of pure gold [אברבנאל].