2 Chronicles 3:17

Then he set up the pillars in front of the temple, one on the south and one on the north. The pillar on the south he named Jachin, and the pillar on the north he named Boaz.

Study Bible

Then he set up the pillars in front of the temple
The construction of the temple by Solomon was a significant event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The pillars, set up in front of the temple, were not merely structural but held symbolic meaning. They marked the entrance to the sacred space, representing strength and stability. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, such pillars often signified the grandeur and importance of a building. The temple itself was a fulfillment of God's promise to David, and these pillars underscored the temple's role as a divine dwelling place.

one on the south and one on the north
The placement of the pillars on the south and north sides of the temple entrance may symbolize the comprehensive nature of God's covenant, extending from one end of the earth to the other. This orientation also reflects the temple's alignment with the cardinal directions, a common practice in ancient architecture to signify order and harmony with creation. The positioning could also be seen as a representation of God's omnipresence, guarding the entrance from all directions.

The pillar on the south he named Jachin
The name "Jachin" means "He will establish" or "He establishes," reflecting God's promise to establish David's throne and, by extension, the temple as a permanent place of worship. This name signifies the stability and permanence of God's covenant with Israel. It also points to the future establishment of God's kingdom through Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises.

and the pillar on the north he named Boaz
The name "Boaz" means "In Him is strength," highlighting the source of Israel's strength and security. This name serves as a reminder that the temple, and by extension the nation, relied on God's power and provision. Boaz, as a name, also connects to the ancestor of David, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan through the lineage of David, leading to Jesus Christ, who embodies divine strength and redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place where the Israelites worshiped God, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. Jachin
The name of the pillar on the south side of the temple entrance, meaning "He will establish" in Hebrew.

4. Boaz
The name of the pillar on the north side of the temple entrance, meaning "In Him is strength" in Hebrew.

5. Hiram of Tyre
The skilled craftsman who assisted Solomon in the construction of the temple, including the casting of the pillars.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Pillars
The names Jachin and Boaz symbolize God's promises and strength. Jachin ("He will establish") reminds us of God's faithfulness to establish His covenant with His people. Boaz ("In Him is strength") emphasizes that our strength comes from God alone.

God's Presence and Stability
The pillars at the temple entrance signify the stability and permanence of God's presence. As believers, we are called to rely on God's unchanging nature and His presence in our lives.

Spiritual Foundations
Just as the temple had physical pillars, our lives require spiritual foundations. These foundations are built on faith in God's promises and reliance on His strength.

Community and Unity
The temple was a place of communal worship, and the pillars were a part of this sacred space. In the same way, believers are called to be united as the body of Christ, supporting one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. How can we apply the symbolism of the temple pillars to our personal spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways does the concept of God as our strength (Boaz) manifest in your daily life?

4. How does the construction of the temple and its pillars reflect the importance of community and unity among believers?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in establishing something in your life (Jachin). How did this impact your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 7:21
This passage provides a parallel account of the construction of the temple and the erection of the pillars, reinforcing the significance of Jachin and Boaz.

Psalm 46:1
This verse speaks of God as our refuge and strength, connecting to the meaning of Boaz and the strength found in God.

Ephesians 2:20-22
These verses describe believers as being built together into a holy temple in the Lord, drawing a parallel to the physical temple and its spiritual significance.