Definition and Significance:
The term "clay-ground" refers to a specific location mentioned in the Bible, known for its association with the production of bronze items during the reign of King Solomon. This site is significant due to its role in the construction of the Temple and other important structures in ancient Israel.

Biblical Reference:
The primary biblical reference to clay-ground is found in 1 Kings 7:46 : "The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan." This passage describes the process by which Solomon's craftsmen created the bronze articles for the Temple, including the two pillars, the Sea, and various other vessels.

Geographical Context:
The clay-ground was located in the plain of the Jordan, specifically between the towns of Succoth and Zarethan. This area was chosen for its natural resources, particularly the quality of the clay, which was suitable for casting large bronze items. The proximity to the Jordan River likely provided the necessary water supply for the casting process.

Historical and Cultural Context:
During Solomon's reign, the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem was a monumental task that required vast resources and skilled labor. The use of clay molds in the casting process was an advanced technique for the time, reflecting the technological and artistic achievements of Solomon's kingdom. The clay-ground served as a critical site for the production of the ornate and functional bronze elements that adorned the Temple, symbolizing the wealth and glory of Israel under Solomon's rule.

Theological Implications:
The use of the clay-ground in the creation of the Temple's bronze furnishings underscores the biblical theme of God's provision and the importance of craftsmanship in worship. The detailed description of the casting process highlights the care and precision involved in preparing a place for God's presence among His people. It also reflects the broader biblical narrative of God using the natural world and human skill to fulfill His divine purposes.

Related Biblical Themes:
· Divine Wisdom and Provision: Solomon's ability to organize and execute such a complex project is often attributed to the wisdom granted to him by God (1 Kings 3:12). The clay-ground is a testament to God's provision of resources and knowledge.
· Worship and Holiness: The bronze items produced at the clay-ground were integral to the worship practices in the Temple, emphasizing the holiness and reverence due to God.
· Artistry and Craftsmanship: The Bible frequently acknowledges the value of skilled artisans in the service of God, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-11) and the Temple.

Conclusion:
The clay-ground serves as a historical and theological touchpoint within the biblical narrative, illustrating the intersection of divine providence, human ingenuity, and the sacred task of building a dwelling place for God.

Gadara
... to be decided. The Chaldee certainly renders that thick dirt, which is
in the Hebrew the clay ground, 1 Kings 7:46. The Jerusalem ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 75 gadara.htm

Adam and Zaretan, Joshua 3
... The brazen vessels of the Temple are said to be cast in the plain of Jordan, in
the clay ground between Zaretan (on this side Jordan) and Succoth (beyond it ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 92 adam and zaretan.htm

The Temple and Its Dedication
... by twelve oxen, the lavers of smaller size, with many other vessels,""in the plain
of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 2 the temple and.htm

Clay-ground (2 Occurrences)
Clay-ground. Clay, Clay-ground. Clean . Multi-Version Concordance
Clay-ground (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 7:46 In the plain ...
/c/clay-ground.htm - 6k

Clay (50 Occurrences)
... Clay was also in primitive times used for mortar (Genesis 11:3). The "clayground"
in which the large vessels of the temple were cast (1 Kings 7:46; 2 ...
/c/clay.htm - 25k

Zarthan (1 Occurrence)
... A place near Succoth, in the plain of the Jordan, "in the clayground," near which
Hiram cast the brazen utensils for the temple (1 Kings 7:46); probably the ...
/z/zarthan.htm - 7k

Zarethan (4 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:46 In the plain of the Jordan did the king cast them, in the clayground
between Succoth and Zarethan. (WEB JPS ASV BBE NAS RSV NIV). ...
/z/zarethan.htm - 9k

Molds (4 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). 1 Kings 7:46 In the plain of the Jordan did the king cast them,
in the clayground between Succoth and Zarethan. (See NIV). ...
/m/molds.htm - 7k

Succoth (18 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Kings 7:46 In the plain of the Jordan
did the king cast them, in the clayground between Succoth and Zarethan. ...
/s/succoth.htm - 16k

Zer'edah (2 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). 2 Chronicles 4:17 In the plain of the Jordan did the king cast them,
in the clayground between Succoth and Zeredah. (See RSV). ...
/z/zer'edah.htm - 6k

Zeredah (4 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 4:17 In the plain of the Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay
ground between Succoth and Zeredah. (WEB JPS ASV BBE NAS). ...
/z/zeredah.htm - 7k

Zeredathah (1 Occurrence)
... Zeredathah (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 4:17 In the plain of Jordan did the king
cast them, in the clayground between Succoth and Zeredathah. (KJV DBY WBS YLT) ...
/z/zeredathah.htm - 7k

Zaretan (3 Occurrences)
... Jokneam. (DBY). 1 Kings 7:46 In the plain of the Jordan did the king cast
them, in the clay-ground between Succoth and Zaretan. (DBY). ...
/z/zaretan.htm - 8k

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