The Bronze Sea, also known as the Molten Sea, was a significant feature of Solomon's Temple, serving as a large basin for ritual purification. It is described in detail in the biblical account of the construction of the temple, primarily in 1 Kings 7:23-26 and 2 Chronicles 4:2-5.

Design and Construction

The Bronze Sea was crafted by Hiram, a skilled artisan from Tyre, who was commissioned by King Solomon to create various temple furnishings. According to 1 Kings 7:23 , "He made the Sea of cast metal, circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim and five cubits high. It took a line of thirty cubits to measure around it." This description highlights its impressive size and circular form.

The basin was made of cast bronze, a material chosen for its durability and ability to be molded into intricate designs. The thickness of the Bronze Sea was a handbreadth, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, resembling a lily blossom (1 Kings 7:26). This artistic detail not only added to its aesthetic appeal but also symbolized purity and beauty.

Capacity and Function

The Bronze Sea had a substantial capacity, holding "two thousand baths" of water (1 Kings 7:26). A bath is an ancient unit of measurement, and while its exact volume is debated, it is generally understood that the Sea could hold several thousand gallons of water. This vast amount of water was necessary for the purification rituals performed by the priests.

Positioned in the temple courtyard, the Bronze Sea was used for the ceremonial washing of the priests before they performed their duties. This act of purification was essential for maintaining the sanctity required to serve in the presence of God. The water in the Bronze Sea symbolized spiritual cleansing, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament.

Support and Placement

The Bronze Sea was supported by twelve bronze oxen, arranged in groups of three facing each cardinal direction (1 Kings 7:25). This arrangement not only provided a sturdy base for the massive basin but also carried symbolic meaning. The oxen, often associated with strength and service, underscored the importance of the temple as a place of divine service and worship.

The placement of the Bronze Sea in the temple courtyard was strategic, allowing easy access for the priests. Its prominent position underscored its importance in the daily rituals and its role in maintaining the holiness required for temple service.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The Bronze Sea's design and function were rich in symbolism. The use of water for purification is a recurring theme in Scripture, representing the cleansing of sin and the preparation for holy service. The Sea's vast capacity and the purity of its water pointed to the comprehensive nature of God's provision for cleansing His people.

Furthermore, the Bronze Sea can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament's emphasis on spiritual purification through Christ. Just as the priests needed to be cleansed before approaching God, believers are called to be spiritually cleansed through the sacrifice of Jesus, the ultimate High Priest.

In summary, the Bronze Sea was a vital component of Solomon's Temple, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. Its construction, capacity, and placement reflected the importance of purity and preparation in worship, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.1 Kings 7:23-37,44,46
And he made a molten sea, ten cubits from the one brim to the other: it was round all about, and his height was five cubits: and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.
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2 Chronicles 4:2-5,10
Also he made a molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and five cubits the height thereof; and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.
Nave's Topical Index

The Immaculate Conception
... apparition of the holy bishop Nicholas of Myra floating over the sea to the ... 8.2 and
54 appoints the account of the consecration of Solomon's Temple as festival ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

Christian Churches.
... once belonged to the Temple of Solomon at Jerusalem ... forty-eight columns, of marble,
stone and bronze. ... easily obtained, and the magnificent temple, which lasted ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter iii christian churches.htm

Canaan
... The temple of Melkarth or Melek-Kiryath, "the King of the City ... had changed up to
the time of Solomon's death. ... Greaves of bronze, like those of the Homeric heroes ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter ii canaan.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... judges"The Philistines and the Hebrew kingdom"Saul, David, Solomon, the defection ...
The temple and statue ... lance, and a large and heavy sword of bronze or iron ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ...
... him at the helm, only after a long course of striking the sea and observing the ... Rehoboam,
the son of Solomon, is among the kings, but so also is Jeroboam, the ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xliii funeral oration on.htm

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