2 Chronicles 3:11

The total wingspan of the cherubim was twenty cubits. One wing of the first cherub was five cubits long and touched the wall of the temple, and its other wing was five cubits long and touched the wing of the other cherub.

Study Bible

The total wingspan of the cherubim was twenty cubits.
The cherubim in the temple symbolize the presence and majesty of God. A cubit is approximately 18 inches, making the total wingspan about 30 feet. This grand scale reflects the glory and holiness of God, as cherubim are often associated with divine presence, as seen in Ezekiel 10 and Revelation 4. The cherubim's wings covering the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies signify God's throne on earth, echoing the cherubim in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the heavenly throne room (Isaiah 6:2).

One wing of the first cherub was five cubits long and touched the wall of the temple,
Each wing measuring five cubits (approximately 7.5 feet) indicates the cherubim's significant size and the temple's grandeur. The touching of the wall signifies stability and the encompassing protection of God's presence. This detail emphasizes the temple as a sacred space, set apart for worship and communion with God, similar to the tabernacle's design in Exodus 25:18-20.

and its other wing was five cubits long and touched the wing of the other cherub.
The connection between the wings of the cherubim symbolizes unity and harmony in God's creation and His divine order. This imagery can be seen as a type of Christ, who unites heaven and earth, reconciling humanity to God (Colossians 1:20). The touching wings also create a protective covering over the Ark, representing God's covenant and His faithfulness to His people, as seen in Psalm 91:4.

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. Cherubim
Angelic beings depicted in the Holy of Holies within the temple. Their wings symbolize the presence and majesty of God.

3. Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's dwelling among His people.

4. Holy of Holies
The innermost and most sacred area of the temple where the Ark of the Covenant was placed, symbolizing God's throne on earth.

5. Main Hall
The larger area of the temple where the priests conducted their duties, leading to the Holy of Holies.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim's wingspan and position in the temple symbolize God's majesty and His protective presence over His people. Reflect on how God's presence is a source of comfort and guidance in your life.

Reverence for God's Holiness
The Holy of Holies was a place of utmost reverence, accessible only to the high priest once a year. Consider how you approach God in prayer and worship, acknowledging His holiness.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The temple was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell with His people. In the New Testament, believers are described as the temple of the Holy Spirit. How does this truth impact your daily life and interactions?

Obedience to God's Instructions
Solomon's adherence to the detailed instructions for the temple's construction demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's commands. Reflect on areas in your life where you need to align more closely with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the depiction of the cherubim in 2 Chronicles 3:11 enhance your understanding of God's presence in the temple?

2. In what ways does the construction of the temple reflect the importance of following God's specific instructions in our lives today?

3. How can the concept of the Holy of Holies inform your personal approach to worship and prayer?

4. Considering that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, how should this influence your daily actions and decisions?

5. How do the descriptions of cherubim in other parts of the Bible (e.g., Ezekiel, Hebrews) deepen your understanding of their role and significance in God's plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-20
Describes the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, highlighting their role in symbolizing God's presence.

1 Kings 6:23-28
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the cherubim in Solomon's temple, emphasizing their size and significance.

Ezekiel 10:1-22
Offers a vision of cherubim, illustrating their role in God's heavenly court and their association with His glory.

Hebrews 9:3-5
Discusses the layout of the tabernacle, including the Holy of Holies and the cherubim, drawing a connection to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.