In biblical terminology, the term "pommel" refers to a rounded knob or ornamental feature, often found on the top of an object. The most notable mention of a pommel in the Bible is in the context of Solomon's Temple, specifically in the description of the two bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, which stood at the entrance of the temple.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to a pommel is found in 2 Chronicles 4:12-13, where the construction of the temple's pillars is described: "the two pillars, the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars, the two sets of network covering the two bowl-shaped capitals on top of the pillars, the four hundred pomegranates for the two sets of network (two rows of pomegranates for each network covering both the bowl-shaped capitals atop the pillars)."

In this passage, the "bowl-shaped capitals" are sometimes referred to as "pommels" in other translations. These capitals were ornate, featuring intricate designs, including rows of pomegranates, which were symbolic of abundance and fertility. The pommel, as part of the capital, served both a decorative and symbolic purpose, enhancing the grandeur and spiritual significance of the temple.

Symbolism and Significance:

The pommel, as part of the temple's architecture, holds deep symbolic meaning. The rounded shape can be seen as a representation of completeness and perfection, reflecting the divine nature of God. The use of pomegranates in the design further emphasizes themes of prosperity and divine blessing, as pomegranates were a common motif in ancient Near Eastern art and symbolism.

The pillars themselves, Jachin and Boaz, were not merely structural but also carried theological significance. Jachin, meaning "He will establish," and Boaz, meaning "In Him is strength," together conveyed a message of God's enduring presence and support for His people. The pommel, as part of these pillars, contributed to this overarching message of divine stability and strength.

Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near East, architectural features like the pommel were not uncommon. They often adorned temples, palaces, and other significant structures, serving both aesthetic and symbolic purposes. The use of such features in Solomon's Temple reflects the cultural and artistic influences of the time, as well as the desire to create a dwelling place for God that was both beautiful and meaningful.

Conclusion:

The pommel, as described in the context of Solomon's Temple, is a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and deep symbolism that characterized the temple's construction. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of God's creation, as well as the spiritual truths embedded in the physical structures of worship.1. (v.) To pummel; or (n.) a knob or ball; as on a pommel horse.

2. (n.) The knob on the hilt of a sword.

3. (n.) The knob or protuberant part of a saddlebow.

4. (n.) The top (of the head).

5. (n.) A knob forming the finial of a turret or pavilion.

6. (v. t.) To beat soundly, as with the pommel of a sword, or with something knoblike; hence, to beat with the fists.

POMMEL

pum'-el (2 Chronicles 4:12, 13): the Revised Version (British and American) reads "bowl" (which see).

1543. gullah -- a basin, bowl
... bowl, pommel, spring. Feminine from galal; a fountain, bowl or globe (all as round) --
bowl, pommel, spring. see HEBREW galal. 1542, 1543. gullah. 1544 . ...
/hebrew/1543.htm - 6k

The Adventures of Saint James of Spain.
... Saint James blew his silver horn, which hung by a green silk scarf to the pommel
of his saddle. The blast aroused the boar, who made at him furiously. ...
/.../kingston/the seven champions of christendom/chapter six the adventures of.htm

The Adventures of Saint Anthony of Italy.
... They so encouraged the valiant Knight, that, resolving to liberate the ladies, he
struck so mighty a blow on the gate of the castle, with the pommel of his ...
/.../kingston/the seven champions of christendom/chapter seven the adventures of.htm

Paracelsus {13}
... and die under the imputation that. Bombastes kept a devil's bird Hid in the
pommel of his sword,. and have, indeed, his very name, Bombast ...
/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/paracelsus 13.htm

Man and Machinery.
... together. But the one could not read, and made his mark with a sword-pommel;
and the other was not held so dear as a favorite dog. ...
/.../chapin/humanity in the city/discourse ii man and machinery.htm

The Adventures of Saint David of Wales.
... sapphires, and other precious gems. Around the pommel was engraven, in golden
letters, the following words:". "By magic spells remain ...
/.../kingston/the seven champions of christendom/chapter ten the adventures of.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Pommel (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (v.) To pummel; or (n.) a knob or ball; as
on a pommel horse. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. POMMEL. ...
/p/pommel.htm - 7k

Pomegranate-trees (1 Occurrence)
Pomegranate-trees. Pomegranate-tree, Pomegranate-trees. Pommel . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (BBE). Pomegranate-tree, Pomegranate-trees. Pommel . ...
/p/pomegranate-trees.htm - 6k

Punish (84 Occurrences)
... treason with death. 3. (vt) To injure, as by beating; to pommel.
Multi-Version Concordance Punish (84 Occurrences). Matthew 24:51 ...
/p/punish.htm - 33k

Pommels (2 Occurrences)

/p/pommels.htm - 7k

Crutch (1 Occurrence)
... 2. (n.) A form of pommel for a woman's saddle, consisting of a forked rest to hold
the leg of the rider. 3. (n.) A knee, or piece of knee timber. ...
/c/crutch.htm - 7k

Horn (108 Occurrences)
... 10. (n.) The pointed beak of an anvil. 11. (n.) The high pommel of a saddle; also,
either of the projections on a lady's saddle for supporting the leg. 12. ...
/h/horn.htm - 49k

Pommel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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