1 Kings 6:18

The cedar paneling inside the temple was carved with gourds and open flowers. Everything was cedar; not a stone could be seen.

Study Bible

The cedar paneling inside the temple
The use of cedar wood in the construction of the temple is significant. Cedar was highly valued in the ancient Near East for its durability, resistance to decay, and pleasant aroma. It was imported from Lebanon, indicating the wealth and resources available to Solomon. The use of cedar also reflects the grandeur and majesty of the temple, as it was a material often used in royal and sacred buildings. This choice of material underscores the temple's purpose as a dwelling place for God, emphasizing its sanctity and the reverence due to it.

was carved with gourds and open flowers.
The carvings of gourds and open flowers are rich in symbolism. Gourds, often associated with sustenance and provision, may symbolize God's provision for His people. Open flowers can represent beauty, life, and the flourishing of creation under God's care. These carvings reflect the artistry and craftsmanship involved in the temple's construction, highlighting the importance of beauty and detail in worship spaces. The imagery also connects to the Garden of Eden, suggesting a return to paradise and communion with God.

Everything was cedar;
The complete use of cedar for the interior signifies purity and uniformity. It creates a seamless and harmonious environment, free from the distractions of varied materials. This uniformity can symbolize the unity and consistency of God's presence and His unchanging nature. The exclusivity of cedar in the temple's interior also points to the idea of holiness, setting the temple apart from ordinary structures.

not a stone could be seen.
The covering of stone with cedar paneling indicates a transformation from the ordinary to the extraordinary. While stone represents strength and permanence, the cedar overlay adds an element of beauty and refinement. This transformation can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual transformation that occurs in the presence of God. The hidden stones also suggest the idea of inner beauty and the importance of what is unseen, aligning with biblical themes of inner purity and the heart's condition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple. His reign was marked by wisdom and prosperity, and he was tasked with constructing the temple as a permanent dwelling place for God among His people.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence with His people. The temple was a fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would build a house for God's name.

3. Cedar Wood
A valuable and durable wood used extensively in the construction of the temple. It was imported from Lebanon and was known for its quality and fragrance.

4. Gourds and Open Flowers
Decorative carvings that adorned the interior of the temple, symbolizing beauty and the abundance of creation.

5. Israel
The nation chosen by God to be His people, for whom the temple was built as a place of worship and sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Beauty of Holiness
The intricate carvings of gourds and flowers in the temple remind us that God values beauty and creativity. Our worship spaces and lives should reflect the beauty of holiness, pointing others to the Creator.

The Importance of Quality in Worship
The use of cedar, a high-quality material, signifies the importance of offering our best to God. In our worship and service, we should strive for excellence, giving God our first and finest.

Symbolism of Creation
The carvings of gourds and flowers symbolize the abundance and diversity of God's creation. This reminds us to appreciate and steward the natural world as a reflection of God's glory.

God's Presence Among His People
The temple was a physical representation of God's presence with Israel. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that reflects God's presence in the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of cedar wood in the temple's construction reflect the value God places on quality and excellence in our worship and service?

2. In what ways can the beauty and creativity seen in the temple's design inspire us to incorporate beauty into our own worship practices?

3. How does the symbolism of gourds and open flowers in the temple relate to the themes of creation and abundance found throughout Scripture?

4. What lessons can we learn from the construction of the temple about the importance of preparing a place for God's presence in our lives today?

5. How can we, as the temple of the Holy Spirit, reflect God's presence and holiness in our daily interactions and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the construction of the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple. The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction reflect the care and reverence required in creating a dwelling place for God.

2 Chronicles 3-4
These chapters provide a parallel account of the temple's construction, offering additional details and emphasizing the grandeur and holiness of the temple.

Psalm 92:12-14
This passage uses the imagery of flourishing trees, such as the cedar, to describe the righteous. It connects to the use of cedar in the temple, symbolizing strength and longevity.