Topical Bible: Temple: Solomon's: Surrounded by Rows of Stones and Cedar Beams

◄ Temple: Solomon's: Surrounded by Rows of Stones and Cedar Beams ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Temple of Solomon, also known as the First Temple, holds a significant place in biblical history as the first permanent structure built for the worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. Commissioned by King Solomon, the son of King David, the temple was constructed in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, the site where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac (2 Chronicles 3:1).

Construction and Design

The construction of Solomon's Temple is detailed in 1 Kings 6 and 2 Chronicles 3. The temple was built using the finest materials available, including large stones and cedar beams. The use of stones and cedar is particularly noted in 1 Kings 6:36: "He built the inner courtyard with three rows of dressed stone and a row of trimmed cedar beams." This description highlights the grandeur and durability of the temple's construction, reflecting the glory and majesty of God.

The temple's design was divinely inspired, following the pattern given to David by God (1 Chronicles 28:11-19). The structure was approximately 60 cubits long, 20 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high (1 Kings 6:2). The interior was adorned with gold, and the walls were lined with cedar, carved with figures of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers (1 Kings 6:29).

Symbolism and Purpose

The temple served as the central place of worship for the Israelites and was the dwelling place of the Ark of the Covenant, which represented God's presence among His people. The use of stones and cedar beams not only provided structural integrity but also symbolized strength and beauty, befitting a house for the Lord.

The temple's construction was a fulfillment of God's promise to David that his son would build a house for His name (2 Samuel 7:12-13). It was a place where the Israelites could offer sacrifices, celebrate festivals, and seek atonement for their sins. The temple also served as a symbol of the covenant between God and Israel, a physical manifestation of His promise to dwell among His people.

Historical Context

Solomon's Temple was completed in the mid-10th century BC, during a time of peace and prosperity in Israel. The construction took seven years to complete (1 Kings 6:38), and it was dedicated with great ceremony and prayer, as recorded in 1 Kings 8. Solomon's prayer of dedication emphasized the temple as a place of prayer and supplication, not only for the Israelites but also for foreigners who would come to seek the God of Israel (1 Kings 8:41-43).

The temple stood for nearly four centuries until it was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC, as a result of Israel's disobedience and idolatry. Its destruction marked a significant turning point in Israel's history, leading to the Babylonian exile.

Legacy

Despite its destruction, the legacy of Solomon's Temple endures in biblical history and theology. It set a precedent for the Second Temple, which was built after the return from exile, and it remains a symbol of God's desire to dwell among His people. The temple's construction with stones and cedar beams continues to be a testament to the craftsmanship and devotion of Solomon and the Israelites in their service to God.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 6:36
And he built the inner court with three rows of hewed stone, and a row of cedar beams.
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1 Kings 7:12
And the great court round about was with three rows of hewed stones, and a row of cedar beams, both for the inner court of the house of the LORD, and for the porch of the house.
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Library

A Discourse
... While the churches are surrounded by enemies, they have ... though she may not be called
Solomon's temple, yet she ... saith it stood upon four rows, not specifying ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm