2 Chronicles 3:15

In front of the temple he made two pillars, which together were thirty-five cubits high, each with a capital on top measuring five cubits.

Study Bible

In front of the temple he made two pillars
The two pillars, named Jachin and Boaz, were placed at the entrance of Solomon's Temple, symbolizing strength and stability. These pillars were not structural but served as monumental symbols. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, such pillars often represented the presence and power of the deity worshiped within. The placement in front of the temple signifies the importance of these pillars as markers of divine presence and authority. The names Jachin and Boaz can be interpreted as "He will establish" and "In Him is strength," respectively, reflecting God's covenant promises to Israel.

which together were thirty-five cubits high
The combined height of thirty-five cubits (approximately 52 feet) indicates the grandeur and majesty of the temple's entrance. This height would have made the pillars a prominent feature visible from a distance, drawing attention to the temple as the center of worship and the dwelling place of God. The use of cubits, an ancient measurement, reflects the historical context of the construction period. The height also emphasizes the temple's significance as a place of divine-human encounter.

each with a capital on top measuring five cubits
The capitals, or decorative tops of the pillars, measured five cubits (about 7.5 feet) and were likely adorned with intricate designs, possibly including pomegranates and lilies, as described in other biblical passages. These capitals added to the aesthetic beauty and symbolic meaning of the pillars. In biblical symbolism, pomegranates often represent fruitfulness and abundance, while lilies can symbolize purity. The capitals' height and decoration further highlight the temple's splendor and the glory of God it was meant to reflect.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple in Jerusalem. His reign is marked by wisdom and wealth, and he is the son of King David.

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place constructed by Solomon as a permanent dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for worship and sacrifices to God.

3. Pillars
Two significant architectural features of the temple, named Jachin and Boaz, which stood at the entrance and symbolized strength and stability.

4. Jachin and Boaz
The names of the two pillars, with "Jachin" meaning "He will establish" and "Boaz" meaning "In Him is strength," reflecting God's promises and power.

5. Hiram of Tyre
The skilled craftsman who assisted Solomon in the construction of the temple, particularly in the creation of the bronze work, including the pillars.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Strength and Stability
The pillars, Jachin and Boaz, symbolize God's promise to establish and strengthen His people. Reflect on how God provides stability in our lives today.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The temple was a physical representation of God's presence. Consider how, through Christ, believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, carrying His presence within us.

The Role of Skilled Workmanship in Worship
Hiram's craftsmanship highlights the importance of using our God-given talents for His glory. Reflect on how you can use your skills to serve God and others.

The Continuity of God's Plan
The temple pillars connect to God's covenant promises throughout Scripture. Trust in the continuity and faithfulness of God's plan in your life.

Bible Study Questions

1. What do the names Jachin and Boaz reveal about God's character and His promises to His people?

2. How does the construction of the temple pillars reflect the importance of preparation and dedication in our spiritual lives?

3. In what ways can we, as modern believers, serve as "pillars" in our communities, reflecting God's strength and stability?

4. How does understanding the role of skilled artisans like Hiram encourage you to use your talents for God's kingdom?

5. How does the transition from the tabernacle to the temple illustrate the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, and how does this apply to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 7:15-22
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the temple pillars, offering additional details about their design and significance.

Exodus 26:31-33
Describes the veil in the tabernacle, which the temple would later replace, symbolizing the transition from a temporary to a permanent dwelling place for God.

Psalm 93:1-2
Speaks of God's eternal strength and establishment, which can be symbolically linked to the pillars' names and their representation of God's enduring presence.