Topical Encyclopedia
The Continual ShewbreadThe Temple built by King Solomon in Jerusalem, as described in the Old Testament, was a central place of worship for the Israelites and a fulfillment of God's promise to David. Among its many sacred functions, the Temple was the designated place for the presentation of the Continual Shewbread, also known as the Bread of the Presence. This practice was a continuation of the tradition established in the Tabernacle during the wilderness period.
The Shewbread consisted of twelve loaves made from fine flour, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These loaves were placed on a specially designed table made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, located in the Holy Place of the Temple. According to the instructions given in
Leviticus 24:5-9, the bread was to be set before the Lord continually, replaced every Sabbath with fresh loaves. The old loaves were then consumed by the priests in a holy place, signifying the perpetual covenant between God and His people.
The presence of the Shewbread in Solomon's Temple symbolized God's provision and sustenance for Israel. It served as a reminder of the divine presence and the covenantal relationship between God and His chosen people. The meticulous care in preparing and presenting the Shewbread underscored the holiness and reverence due to God in worship.
The Burnt OfferingsThe practice of burnt offerings was a central aspect of worship in Solomon's Temple, reflecting the sacrificial system established by God through Moses. Burnt offerings were made daily, both in the morning and at twilight, as a continual offering to the Lord. These offerings were a means of atonement, expressing devotion, and seeking favor from God.
The altar for burnt offerings, made of bronze, was situated in the Temple's outer court. It was a large structure, designed to accommodate the numerous sacrifices brought by the Israelites. The burnt offerings typically consisted of bulls, rams, or birds, depending on the individual's means, and were wholly consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete surrender to God.
In
2 Chronicles 2:4, Solomon emphasizes the importance of these offerings: "Behold, I am about to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God and to dedicate it to Him for burning fragrant incense before Him, for setting out the rows of the showbread, and for making burnt offerings morning and evening, on the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance forever for Israel."
The burnt offerings in Solomon's Temple were not only a personal act of worship but also a communal expression of Israel's dedication to God. They served as a constant reminder of the need for atonement and the grace of God in accepting the sacrifices of His people. The regularity and solemnity of these offerings highlighted the centrality of worship and obedience in the life of Israel.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Chronicles 2:4Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual show bread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... and the Hebrew kingdom"Saul, David, Solomon, the defection of ... are put on record"gave
them continual trouble, and ... he was brought into the temple to amuse ...
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Resources
Was it God's desire for Israel to worship Him in a temple in Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning and significance of the Temple Mount? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Ezekiel's temple? | GotQuestions.orgTemple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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