2 Chronicles 3:10

In the Most Holy Place he made two cherubim of sculptured work, and he overlaid them with gold.

Study Bible

In the Most Holy Place
The Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies, was the innermost and most sacred area of the temple. It was where the presence of God was believed to dwell, and only the high priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34). This sacred space was a continuation of the design from the Tabernacle, emphasizing the separation between God and humanity due to sin, and the need for atonement.

he made two cherubim
Cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. They are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24, guarding the way to the Tree of Life. In the context of the temple, the cherubim symbolize the guardianship of God's holiness and serve as a reminder of the divine presence. Their inclusion in the Most Holy Place underscores the sacredness of the space and the reverence required in approaching God.

of sculptured work
The cherubim were crafted with great skill, indicating the importance of artistry in worship and the temple's construction. This reflects the detailed instructions given by God for the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:18-22) and later for the temple, highlighting the value placed on beauty and craftsmanship in the service of God. The use of sculptured work also points to the permanence and stability of the temple compared to the portable Tabernacle.

and he overlaid them with gold
Gold was a symbol of purity, divinity, and kingship, often used in the construction of sacred objects and spaces (Exodus 25:11). The overlaying of the cherubim with gold signifies the preciousness and holiness of the Most Holy Place. Gold's incorruptible nature also points to the eternal and unchanging nature of God. This use of gold connects to the wealth and splendor of Solomon's reign, as well as the future glory of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the vision and instructions given to his father, David.

2. The Most Holy Place
Also known as the Holy of Holies, this was the innermost and most sacred area of the temple, where the presence of God was believed to dwell.

3. Cherubim
Angelic beings often associated with the presence of God, depicted here as part of the temple's sacred furnishings.

4. Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, constructed under Solomon's reign, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people.

5. Gold Overlay
Represents the purity, value, and divine nature of the temple's furnishings, signifying the holiness of the space.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
The construction of the Most Holy Place and the cherubim emphasizes the holiness and majesty of God. As believers, we are called to approach God with reverence and awe.

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim symbolize God's presence and protection. In our lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always present and watching over us.

The Role of Worship
The temple was a place of worship and sacrifice. Today, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to live lives of worship and dedication to God.

Continuity of God's Plan
The detailed construction of the temple and its furnishings reflects God's unchanging nature and His plan for redemption, which is fulfilled in Christ.

Value of Obedience
Solomon's adherence to God's instructions for the temple construction serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the cherubim in the Most Holy Place reflect the character and holiness of God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives reflect the reverence and awe due to God, similar to the sacredness of the temple?

3. How do the cherubim in the temple connect to the broader biblical account of God's presence with His people?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's obedience in following God's detailed instructions for the temple?

5. How can we apply the concept of our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, in light of the temple's significance in 2 Chronicles 3:10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-22
The instructions for the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which also included cherubim, highlighting the continuity of God's design for sacred spaces.

1 Kings 6:23-28
A parallel account of the construction of the cherubim in the temple, providing additional details about their size and placement.

Hebrews 9:3-5
Describes the Most Holy Place and its contents, including the cherubim, in the context of the New Covenant, drawing a connection between the Old and New Testaments.