Lily-work refers to the decorative design resembling lilies that is mentioned in the construction of Solomon's Temple, as described in the Old Testament. This ornamental motif is noted for its beauty and intricate craftsmanship, symbolizing purity and divine beauty, which are often associated with lilies in biblical literature.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Kings 7:19, 22, 26 : The term "lily-work" is specifically mentioned in the context of the temple's construction. The capitals on top of the pillars in the temple were adorned with lily-work. "The capitals on top of the pillars in the portico were shaped like lilies, four cubits high" (1 Kings 7:19). This design is further emphasized in verse 22: "And the tops of the pillars were shaped like lilies. So the work of the pillars was completed." Additionally, the bronze Sea, a large basin used for ceremonial washing, was also decorated with lily-work: "It was a handbreadth thick, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom. It could hold two thousand baths" (1 Kings 7:26).

2. 2 Chronicles 4:5 : This passage reiterates the description of the bronze Sea, highlighting the lily motif: "It was a handbreadth thick, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom. It could hold three thousand baths."

Symbolism and Significance:

Lily-work in the temple's design is rich in symbolism. Lilies are often associated with purity and divine favor in the Bible. In the Song of Solomon, lilies are used metaphorically to describe beauty and love (Song of Solomon 2:1-2). The use of lily-work in the temple's architecture may symbolize the purity and holiness required in the worship of God, as well as the beauty of His dwelling place among His people.

The intricate design of lily-work also reflects the skill and artistry of the craftsmen involved in the temple's construction. It underscores the importance of offering one's best to God, as the temple was not only a place of worship but also a representation of God's presence on earth.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, floral motifs were common in art and architecture, often symbolizing life and fertility. The use of lily-work in Solomon's Temple aligns with this broader cultural context, while also carrying specific theological implications within the Israelite tradition.

The temple, as the central place of worship for the Israelites, was designed to reflect the glory and majesty of God. The inclusion of lily-work in its design served to enhance the temple's aesthetic appeal and to remind worshippers of the beauty and sanctity of their relationship with God.

Craftsmanship:

The construction of the temple, including the lily-work, was overseen by skilled artisans, notably Hiram of Tyre, who was renowned for his expertise in bronze work (1 Kings 7:13-14). The detailed and delicate nature of lily-work required a high level of craftsmanship, indicating the value placed on artistic excellence in the service of God.

In summary, lily-work in the biblical context is a testament to the beauty, purity, and divine presence symbolized in the temple's architecture. It reflects the theological and cultural values of ancient Israel, emphasizing the importance of offering one's best in worship and the representation of God's holiness and beauty.LILY-WORK

The ornament of the capitals on the bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, in front of Solomon's temple (1 Kings 7:19, 22).

See LILY; TEMPLE; JACHIN AND BOAZ.

Of the Building of this Temple
... and the height of the pillars was eighteen cubits and their circumference twelve
cubits; but there was cast with each of their chapiters lily-work that stood ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 3 of the building.htm

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... There were also pomegranates wrought upon them. The upper capitals, forming
a cornice to the whole pillar, were ornamented with lily-work. ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... Of the lily work which was upon the chapiters, that were upon these pillars of the
Temple. ... Judas had none of this lily work; so his name stinks to this day. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Lilywork
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia LILY-WORK. The ornament of the capitals on the bronze
pillars, Jachin and Boaz, in front of Solomon's temple (1 Kings 7:19, 22). ...
/l/lilywork.htm - 6k

Lily-work (2 Occurrences)
Lily-work. Lilywork, Lily-work. Lima . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
LILY-WORK. ... (ASV DBY JPS WBS YLT RSV). Lilywork, Lily-work. Lima . Reference
/l/lily-work.htm - 7k

Lily (9 Occurrences)
... This was probably the model of the architectural ornament, translated "lily-work,"
which appeared upon the capitals of the columns in the temple porch (1 Kings ...
/l/lily.htm - 15k

Lilies (15 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV WEY ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Kings 7:19 And the capitals that were
upon the top of the pillars in the porch were of lily-work, four cubits. ...
/l/lilies.htm - 10k

Shape (17 Occurrences)
... form. (See NIV). 1 Kings 7:19 The capitals that were on the top of the pillars
in the porch were of lilywork, four cubits. (See NIV). ...
/s/shape.htm - 14k

Pillars (132 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Kings 7:19 The capitals that were on
the top of the pillars in the porch were of lilywork, four cubits. ...
/p/pillars.htm - 39k

Vestibule (36 Occurrences)
... house. (See RSV). 1 Kings 7:19 The capitals that were on the top of the pillars
in the porch were of lilywork, four cubits. (See RSV). ...
/v/vestibule.htm - 16k

Lima (1 Occurrence)

/l/lima.htm - 6k

Lily-flower (1 Occurrence)
Lily-flower. Lily-blossoms, Lily-flower. Lilywork . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Lily-blossoms, Lily-flower. Lilywork . Reference Bible.
/l/lily-flower.htm - 6k

Portico (37 Occurrences)
... (See NIV). 1 Kings 7:19 And the capitals that were upon the top of the pillars
in the porch were of lily-work, four cubits. (See NIV). ...
/p/portico.htm - 19k

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