Topical Encyclopedia In biblical architecture, capitals are the decorative tops of columns, often intricately designed and serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. They are mentioned in several instances throughout the Bible, particularly in the context of the construction of significant structures such as the Temple of Solomon.Solomon's Temple: The most detailed biblical description of capitals is found in the account of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 7:15-22, the construction of two bronze pillars named Jachin and Boaz is described. These pillars stood at the entrance of the Temple and were adorned with capitals. The Berean Standard Bible states: "He cast two bronze capitals to set on top of the pillars; each capital was five cubits high" (1 Kings 7:16). The capitals were decorated with a network of interwoven chains and pomegranates, symbolizing abundance and beauty. Symbolism and Design: The design of capitals often carried symbolic meaning. The use of pomegranates, as mentioned in 1 Kings 7:18, is significant. Pomegranates were a symbol of fertility and prosperity in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The intricate designs of the capitals reflected the glory and majesty of God’s dwelling place on earth, emphasizing the importance of the Temple as a center of worship and divine presence. Other Biblical References: Capitals are also mentioned in the context of other structures. In 2 Chronicles 4:12-13, the description of the Temple's furnishings includes the capitals: "the two pillars, the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars, the two sets of network covering the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars." This passage reiterates the detailed craftsmanship and the importance of these architectural elements. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, capitals were not unique to Israelite architecture. They were a common feature in the grand structures of surrounding cultures, such as the Egyptians and the Phoenicians. The Israelites, under Solomon's reign, employed skilled artisans, including Hiram from Tyre, to construct the Temple, indicating a blend of cultural influences in the design of the capitals. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the capitals of the Temple pillars can be seen as a representation of the beauty and order of God’s creation. The attention to detail and the use of precious materials in their construction reflect the reverence and honor due to God. The capitals, as part of the Temple, served as a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel, symbolizing stability and strength in the faith community. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide exhaustive details on every architectural element, the references to capitals highlight their significance in biblical history and theology. They serve as a testament to the artistry and devotion involved in creating a sacred space for worship and the presence of God. Strong's Hebrew 3805. kothereth -- capital (of a pillar)... 3804, 3805. kothereth. 3806 . capital (of a pillar). Transliteration: kothereth Phonetic Spelling: (ko-theh'-reth) Short Definition: capitals. ... /hebrew/3805.htm - 6k 3730. kaphtor -- capital, knob, bulb Library The Characters of Herod and Augustus were as Far Apart as their ... Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... Hiram, the Inspired Artificer The Revolt of Babylon. And V the Kingdom Undivided and the Kingdom Divided Stations of the China Inland Mission The Motive that Led Men to Adopt Darwinism. The New Testament Text and Its History. Christian Stewardship. Early Mentions of Christianity in Britain. --King Lucius. --Origin ... Thesaurus Capitals (21 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Capitals (21 Occurrences). ... He overlaid their capitals and their fillets with gold, and their five sockets were of brass. ... /c/capitals.htm - 13k Network (19 Occurrences) Networks (5 Occurrences) Globes (4 Occurrences) Decorating (4 Occurrences) Bowl-shaped (4 Occurrences) Net-work (11 Occurrences) Fillets (11 Occurrences) Rows (29 Occurrences) Bowls (47 Occurrences) Resources What are Jachin and Boaz? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of pomegranates in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are the different names of God, and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Capitals (21 Occurrences)Exodus 25:31 Exodus 25:34 Exodus 25:36 Exodus 36:38 Exodus 37:17 Exodus 37:20 Exodus 37:22 Exodus 38:17 Exodus 38:19 Exodus 38:28 1 Kings 7:16 1 Kings 7:17 1 Kings 7:18 1 Kings 7:19 1 Kings 7:20 1 Kings 7:41 1 Kings 7:42 2 Chronicles 4:12 2 Chronicles 4:13 Jeremiah 52:22 Zephaniah 2:14 Subtopics Related Terms |