2 Chronicles 3:3

The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God was sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide, according to the old standard.

Study Bible

The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God
This phrase refers to the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, also known as Solomon's Temple. Solomon, the son of King David, was chosen by God to build this temple, fulfilling the promise made to David. The foundation signifies the beginning of this monumental project, which was central to Israel's worship and religious life. The temple served as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, symbolizing His covenant with Israel. The foundation's laying was a significant event, marking the transition from the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, to a permanent structure.

was sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide
The dimensions given here reflect the grandeur and significance of the temple. A cubit is generally considered to be about 18 inches or 45 centimeters, making the temple approximately 90 feet long and 30 feet wide. These dimensions highlight the temple's importance as a central place of worship and its role in the religious life of Israel. The size also reflects the wealth and resources available to Solomon, as well as the influence of surrounding cultures, which often built large and impressive temples for their deities. The temple's size and design were intended to reflect the glory and majesty of God.

according to the old standard
This phrase indicates that the measurements were based on an ancient or traditional unit of measure, possibly referring to the cubit used during the time of Moses or earlier. This standardization suggests continuity with Israel's past and adherence to established norms, emphasizing the temple's role as a continuation of the worship practices established in the wilderness with the tabernacle. It also underscores the importance of tradition and consistency in the worship of God, linking the temple to the historical and spiritual heritage of the Israelites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he was tasked with constructing the Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites.

2. The House of God (Temple)
This refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon built as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for Israelite worship. It symbolized God's presence among His people.

3. Foundation
The foundation mentioned here refers to the initial stage of the Temple's construction. It signifies the beginning of a significant project that would become a focal point of Israelite religious life.

4. Cubits
An ancient unit of measurement used in the construction of the Temple. The dimensions given (sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide) reflect the grandeur and sacredness of the structure.

5. Old Standard
This phrase indicates that the measurements were based on traditional or established standards, possibly referring to the measurements used in the Tabernacle or other ancient structures.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Foundations
Just as Solomon laid a strong foundation for the Temple, we must lay a strong spiritual foundation in our lives, rooted in Christ and His teachings.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Temple was a symbol of God's presence. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence within us.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific measurements and standards used in the Temple's construction remind us of the importance of reverence and attention to detail in our worship and service to God.

Continuity and Tradition in Faith
The use of the "old standard" highlights the value of tradition and continuity in our faith practices, encouraging us to respect and learn from the past while moving forward in our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the foundation of the Temple teach us about the importance of having a strong spiritual foundation in our own lives?

2. How can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are living as temples of the Holy Spirit, reflecting God's presence in our daily actions?

3. In what ways can we incorporate reverence and attention to detail in our worship practices today?

4. How does understanding the continuity between the Tabernacle and the Temple enhance our appreciation of God's plan for His people?

5. How can we balance respecting traditional faith practices with embracing new ways to grow in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6:2
This verse provides a parallel account of the Temple's dimensions, offering additional details about its construction and Solomon's role.

Exodus 26:15-30
These verses describe the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for God before the Temple was built. The use of cubits and specific measurements connects the Temple to its predecessor, emphasizing continuity in worship practices.

Ephesians 2:19-22
This New Testament passage speaks of believers as a spiritual temple, with Christ as the cornerstone, drawing a parallel between the physical Temple and the spiritual community of believers.