Cedar-pillars are mentioned in the Bible as significant architectural and symbolic elements, particularly in the context of ancient Israelite construction and design. The use of cedar wood, renowned for its durability, fragrance, and resistance to decay, is frequently associated with structures of great importance and splendor.

Biblical References and Significance

Cedar wood was highly prized in the ancient Near East, and its use in construction is noted in several key biblical passages. One of the most prominent references to cedar-pillars is found in the construction of Solomon's Temple and his royal palace. In 1 Kings 7:2, Solomon's "House of the Forest of Lebanon" is described as being supported by cedar pillars: "He built the House of the Forest of Lebanon; its length was a hundred cubits, its width fifty cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedar pillars, with cedar beams on the pillars."

The choice of cedar for these pillars underscores the grandeur and majesty of Solomon's building projects. The "House of the Forest of Lebanon" was not only a royal residence but also a symbol of Solomon's wealth, wisdom, and the prosperity of Israel under his reign. The use of cedar, imported from Lebanon, highlights the extensive trade networks and diplomatic relations Solomon maintained with neighboring regions, particularly with King Hiram of Tyre, who supplied the timber (1 Kings 5:6).

Symbolic Meaning

Cedar-pillars also carry symbolic meaning in the biblical text. Cedar trees, known for their height and strength, often symbolize majesty, nobility, and permanence. In the Song of Solomon, the beloved is compared to a house with cedar beams and cypress rafters, suggesting beauty and strength: "The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are cypresses" (Song of Solomon 1:17). This imagery conveys a sense of enduring love and stability.

Furthermore, the use of cedar in sacred and royal architecture reflects the desire to create a dwelling place that is fitting for the divine presence and for the king, who is seen as God's appointed ruler. The cedar-pillars, therefore, not only serve a practical architectural function but also elevate the spiritual and cultural significance of the structures they support.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient world, cedar was a luxury material, often reserved for the most important buildings and objects. The Phoenicians, particularly those from the region of Lebanon, were renowned for their cedar forests and their skill in timber trade. The biblical narrative reflects this historical reality, as Israel's leaders sought to use the finest materials available to honor God and establish their legacy.

The enduring legacy of cedar-pillars in biblical architecture serves as a testament to the values and priorities of ancient Israelite society. The emphasis on beauty, strength, and divine presence in their construction projects reveals a deep commitment to creating spaces that reflect the glory of God and the stability of the kingdom.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide exhaustive details about the construction techniques or the exact appearance of these cedar-pillars, their repeated mention in the context of significant buildings underscores their importance. Cedar-pillars remain a powerful symbol of the intersection between divine worship, royal authority, and cultural achievement in the biblical narrative.

A Discourse
... The house of the forest of Lebanon was built upon four rows of cedar pillars;
but we read of no such pillars upon which the temple stood. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm

Cedar-Pillars (1 Occurrence)
Cedar-Pillars. Cedar-beams, Cedar-Pillars. Cedars . Multi-Version
Concordance Cedar-Pillars (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings ...
/c/cedar-pillars.htm - 6k

Cedar-beams (3 Occurrences)
Cedar-beams. Cedar, Cedar-beams. Cedar-Pillars . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(DBY YLT). Cedar, Cedar-beams. Cedar-Pillars . Reference Bible.
/c/cedar-beams.htm - 7k

Cedars (37 Occurrences)

/c/cedars.htm - 18k

100 (8 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/num/100.htm - 8k

50 (3 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/num/50.htm - 7k

Trimmed (7 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/t/trimmed.htm - 8k

Rows (29 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/r/rows.htm - 15k

Beams (28 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/b/beams.htm - 14k

Columns (17 Occurrences)
... the forest of Lebanon; its length was one hundred cubits, and its breadth fifty
cubits, and its height thirty cubits, on four rows of cedarpillars, with cedar ...
/c/columns.htm - 11k

Solomon (277 Occurrences)
... Its lofty roof was supported by forty-five cedarpillars, so that the hall was like
a forest of cedar wood, and hence probably it received the name of "The ...
/s/solomon.htm - 101k

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