This is PART 4 of a multiple part posting, please read PART 1, PART 2, and PART 3 to get the background.

In this part, let us discuss the significance of numbers. There are four numbers represented in the menorah symbol.

They are the number 7 for the seven branches of the tree, the number 3 for the three branches on either side of the tree, the number 2 for the two sides of the tree and the number 1 for the branch that divides the sacrifices down the middle.

NUMBER 7

The number 7 is symbolic of complete, perfect, and whole. All 7 branches make up the whole or complete tree of life, which represents a perfect Savior in Jesus Christ. The idea of complete or whole also represents the whole plan of salvation from the beginning to the end, or a complete plan (just like a complete creation with seven periods and complete plan with seven dispensations). The plan of salvation if followed from beginning to end using the atonement of Christ will make each us complete, perfect and whole.

NUMBER 3

The number 3 is symbolic of the Godhead, priesthood head or presidency and covenant. Each side of the menorah has three branches on the right and left sides.

Looking north, the spires on the right (front) of the temple represent the Melchizedek Priesthood. They are just a little higher than the back spires.  

The left (back) spires represent the Aaronic Priesthood.

All covenants that we make with the Lord are done through either Aaronic or Melchizedek Priesthood ordinances. The Melchizedek Priesthood has a spiritual focus while the Aaronic has a temporal focus. Hence, the right symbolizes the spiritual and the left the temporal. As priesthood ordinances are performed on our behalf, and as we keep the covenants that we have made and follow the plan to the end, we can become perfected in Christ through His atonement.

NUMBER 2

The number 2 is symbolic of witnesses as well as the opposition of good versus evil, light, and darkness, spiritual and temporal, even male and female, etc. The two priesthood heads stand as witnesses to all the ordinances that are performed by the priesthood. All saving ordinances that are performed in the Church require two witnesses. The number 2 also reminds us of the need for opposition in all things in order to carry out the complete plan of salvation. Joy does not exist without sadness and the same holds true for every opposite. Again, because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, we will overcome all opposition if we have faith, repent, keep our covenants and endure to the end so that we will become complete or perfect.

NUMBER 1

Finally, the number 1 is symbolic of the Lord God. The middle or dividing branch that cuts through all of the sacrifices with which we all make covenants. He is the great Creator, Mediator, Comforter; the Great I AM. He is the one and only true God. He should be in the center of our lives. He is the center candle or light which is higher than all the other lights or branches symbolically showing us the way, the only way, to life and salvation.

Read the final post in this series: Part 5