1 Kings 6:3

The portico at the front of the main hall of the temple was twenty cubits long, extending across the width of the temple and projecting out ten cubits in front of the temple.

Study Bible

The portico at the front of the main hall of the temple
The portico, or porch, served as an entrance to the temple, symbolizing the transition from the secular to the sacred. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, such structures were common, providing a grand entrance to significant buildings. The temple's portico reflects the importance of the temple as the dwelling place of God among His people. This entrance can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the "door" (John 10:9) through which believers enter into the presence of God.

was twenty cubits long
A cubit is generally considered to be about 18 inches, making the portico approximately 30 feet long. This measurement indicates the grandeur and scale of Solomon's Temple, emphasizing its importance and the resources dedicated to its construction. The number twenty in biblical numerology can symbolize a period of waiting or completeness, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promise to David regarding the temple (2 Samuel 7:12-13).

extending across the width of the temple
The portico's extension across the entire width of the temple signifies its role as an integral part of the structure, not merely an addition. This design choice highlights the unity and completeness of the temple, mirroring the unity of God's covenant with Israel. The temple itself is a foreshadowing of the body of Christ, the true temple (John 2:19-21).

and projecting out ten cubits in front of the temple
The projection of ten cubits, or about 15 feet, indicates the portico's prominence and its function as a welcoming space. The number ten often represents completeness or divine order in the Bible, as seen in the Ten Commandments. This projection can symbolize the outreach of God's presence to His people, inviting them into worship and relationship. The temple, as a whole, prefigures the ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity through Jesus Christ, who extends His grace to all.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple. His reign is marked by wisdom and prosperity, and the construction of the temple is one of his most significant achievements.

2. The Temple
Also known as Solomon's Temple, it was the first temple built for the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem. It served as the central place of worship and sacrifice for the Israelites.

3. The Portico
This is the porch or entrance hall of the temple, measuring twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide. It served as a transitional space between the outside world and the sacred interior of the temple.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Sacred Spaces
The detailed description of the temple's portico underscores the significance of creating spaces dedicated to worship and encountering God. As believers, we should value and respect our places of worship, ensuring they are conducive to reverence and reflection.

Symbolism of the Portico
The portico serves as a threshold between the secular and the sacred. In our lives, we should recognize and honor the boundaries between our daily activities and our time with God, ensuring we dedicate time and space for spiritual growth.

God's Presence Among His People
The temple, including its portico, symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. This foreshadows the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of living lives that reflect God's holiness.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The precise measurements and design of the temple's portico remind us that God values order and intentionality in worship. Our worship practices should be thoughtful and intentional, reflecting our reverence for God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the design and purpose of the temple's portico reflect the character of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our own places of worship?

2. In what ways does the concept of a sacred space, as seen in the temple, influence your personal worship and relationship with God?

3. How can the symbolism of the portico as a threshold between the secular and the sacred be applied to your daily life and spiritual practices?

4. Considering that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, how should this truth impact the way you live and interact with others?

5. Reflect on the attention to detail in the construction of the temple. How can this inspire you to be more intentional in your worship and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the instructions for the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple. The detailed instructions for both structures highlight the importance of worship and the presence of God among His people.

2 Chronicles 3:4
This verse provides additional details about the temple's portico, emphasizing its height and grandeur, which reflect the glory and majesty of God.

Ezekiel 40:48-49
In Ezekiel's vision of a future temple, the portico is also described, showing continuity in the design and purpose of sacred spaces throughout Israel's history.