1 Kings 6:15

KJV

¶ And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar, both the floor of the house, and the walls of the cieling: [and] he covered [them] on the inside with wood, and covered the floor of the house with planks of fir.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he built {H1129} the walls {H7023} of the house {H1004} within {H1004} with boards {H6763} of cedar {H730}, both the floor {H7172} of the house {H1004}, and the walls {H7023} of the cieling {H5604}: and he covered {H6823} them on the inside {H1004} with wood {H6086}, and covered {H6823} the floor {H7172} of the house {H1004} with planks {H6763} of fir {H1265}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The insides of the walls of the house he built with boards of cedar: from the floor of the house to the joists of the ceiling he covered them on the inside with wood, and he covered the floor of the house with boards of cypress.

Berean Standard Bible

He lined the interior walls with cedar paneling from the floor of the temple to the ceiling, and he covered the floor with cypress boards.

American Standard Version

And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar: from the floor of the house unto the walls of the ceiling, he covered them on the inside with wood; and he covered the floor of the house with boards of fir.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:15 offers a meticulous and vivid description of the interior finishing of Solomon's Temple, detailing the lavish application of cedar and fir wood for its walls, floor, and ceiling. This verse underscores the extraordinary craftsmanship and the use of precious, imported materials, reflecting the profound reverence and immense value attributed to the sacred dwelling place of God in Jerusalem. The comprehensive covering of every internal surface with fine wood highlights the dedication to creating a sanctuary of unparalleled beauty, dignity, and spiritual significance, both in visible and less visible areas.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a highly detailed architectural account of Solomon's Temple construction, which spans [1 Kings chapters 5-7](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5-7 - Construction of Solomon's Temple"). Following the initial laying of the foundation, as noted in [1 Kings 6:1](/1_kings/6-1 "1 Kings 6:1 - Foundation of the Temple"), the narrative shifts to the intricate interior work. The preceding verses in [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Temple Construction Details") describe the overall dimensions, the primary construction materials (hewn stone and cedar), and the general layout of the Temple's various chambers. Verse 15 specifically hones in on the internal cladding, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the wooden overlay. This meticulous description serves to highlight the Temple's grandeur, its divine inspiration, and its role as the central place of worship, echoing the detailed instructions for the earlier Tabernacle in [Exodus 25:8-9](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8-9 - Command to Build the Tabernacle"), which also emphasized specific materials and craftsmanship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, grand architectural projects, especially temples, were profound expressions of a king's power, wealth, and devotion to their deity. Solomon's Temple, built during a period of unprecedented prosperity and peace for Israel, was a prime example. The use of "cedar" (specifically Lebanese cedar) and "fir" (often identified as cypress or juniper) was highly significant. Lebanese cedar was a prized commodity, known for its strength, aromatic qualities, resistance to decay, and majestic appearance, frequently associated with royalty and sacred structures. Its importation from Phoenicia (modern Lebanon) through a treaty with Hiram, King of Tyre ([1 Kings 5:1-12](/1_kings/5-1 "1 Kings 5:1-12 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram")), indicates Solomon's vast resources and international standing. Fir wood, also durable and aromatic, was a common complement to cedar. The comprehensive wooden cladding was not merely decorative; it transformed the rough stone interior into a warm, inviting, and visually stunning sacred space, providing both aesthetic beauty and practical insulation.

* **Key Themes:** The detailed description in [1 Kings 6:15](/1_kings/6-15 "1 Kings 6:15 - Interior of Solomon's Temple") contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Magnificence and Dedication** invested in God's dwelling. The use of premium, imported materials and the extensive craftsmanship signify the unparalleled splendor and deep devotion of King Solomon and the nation towards Yahweh. This was not merely a functional building but a monumental work of art, a testament to God's glory. Secondly, the verse highlights **Attention to Detail**, emphasizing that every surface—walls, floor, and ceiling—was meticulously covered. This thoroughness reflects the profound care and reverence given to building God's house, ensuring its beauty and perfection from all angles, even those less visible. Finally, the rich and durable materials used symbolize the **Enduring Nature of God's Presence** among His people. The Temple was designed to be a worthy and lasting earthly dwelling for the Almighty, a physical manifestation of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as established in passages like [Exodus 29:45](/exodus/29-45 "Exodus 29:45 - God's Presence Among Israel"), where God promises to dwell among the Israelites.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **House (Hebrew, _bayith_):** This term (H1004) refers broadly to a dwelling place or building, but in this context, it specifically denotes the Temple, the sacred "house" of God. Its repeated use emphasizes the structure as a dedicated abode for the divine presence, distinct from ordinary human dwellings. The word also carries connotations of family and household, subtly hinting at God's relationship with His people as a household.
* **Covered (Hebrew, _tsâphâh_):** The verb (H6823) means "to sheet over" or "to overlay," often implying a plating or cladding, particularly with precious materials. In this verse, it indicates that the wooden boards were not merely structural but served as an aesthetic and protective skin over the underlying stone framework. The repetition of "covered" emphasizes the comprehensive and thorough nature of the interior finishing, suggesting that no part of the inner sanctuary was left unadorned.
* **Boards (Hebrew, _tsêlâʻ_):** This word (H6763) refers to a "rib" or "side," and architecturally, it signifies a timber, plank, or flooring. In this context, it describes the precisely cut wooden planks used to line the interior surfaces. The choice of this term highlights the meticulous craftsmanship involved, as these boards were fitted together to create a seamless and beautiful interior, forming the very "sides" or panels of the Temple's inner structure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar":** This opening clause specifies the primary material used for the interior walls, indicating that the rough stone structure was meticulously lined with finely cut cedar planks. The phrase "within" (or "on the inside") establishes the immediate focus of the verse on the Temple's internal appearance, which was equally, if not more, important than its exterior. This detail emphasizes the sanctity and beauty intended for the inner sanctum.
* **"both the floor of the house, and the walls of the cieling":** This phrase details the comprehensive extent of the wooden cladding, indicating that the covering was all-encompassing. "Walls of the cieling" likely refers to the upper parts of the interior walls leading up to the ceiling, or perhaps the joists and beams of the ceiling itself, ensuring that the entire internal surface, from the ground up, was adorned with wood. This highlights the complete and unified aesthetic of the Temple's inner sanctum, leaving no surface untouched.
* **"[and] he covered [them] on the inside with wood":** This is a summary statement, reiterating the overall action of cladding the interior with wood. The general term "wood" here encompasses both the specific cedar and fir mentioned, emphasizing the material unity and completeness of the interior design. It reinforces the idea that the entire inner space was transformed by this rich overlay, creating a distinct and unified sacred environment.
* **"and covered the floor of the house with planks of fir":** This final clause specifies the material used for the flooring. While cedar covered the walls and ceiling, fir was chosen for the floor. This might have been due to its particular durability for foot traffic, its straight grain, or its complementary aesthetic and aromatic qualities, providing a distinct yet harmonious finish to the sacred space. It shows a careful selection of materials for specific functions within the overall design.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey the grandeur and meticulousness of the Temple's construction. The **Repetition** of "covered" (Hebrew _tsapah_) and "house" (Hebrew _bayith_) reinforces the comprehensive nature of the work and the central focus on the sacred structure. The detailed listing of specific materials ("cedar," "fir") and areas ("walls," "floor," "cieling") creates a sense of **Precision** and **Verisimilitude**, allowing the reader to visualize the intricate interior with remarkable clarity. The choice of materials itself functions as **Symbolism**, where the preciousness, durability, and aromatic qualities of cedar and fir represent the enduring glory, sacredness, and pleasantness of God's presence. The description also implies **Hyperbole** in the sheer lavishness, suggesting an effort to create a dwelling worthy of the Almighty, surpassing any ordinary human construction. The comprehensive covering of "floor... and the walls of the cieling" can be seen as a form of **Merism**, where two extremes (bottom and top) represent the entirety of the interior space, emphasizing its complete and unified adornment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous and costly interior design of Solomon's Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6:15, powerfully conveys a profound theological truth: God is worthy of the absolute best, and His dwelling place, whether physical or spiritual, demands ultimate reverence and dedication. The emphasis on the unseen interior, lavishly adorned, suggests that what is hidden from public view—the inner sanctum of worship and devotion—is of paramount importance to God. This principle extends beyond physical structures to the spiritual lives of believers. Just as the Temple was prepared as a holy dwelling for God's presence, so too are believers called to cultivate an inner life of purity, integrity, and devotion, recognizing that the Holy Spirit indwells them. The beauty and durability of the Temple's interior wood reflect the enduring and glorious nature of God, inviting His people to reflect His character in their innermost beings, acknowledging that true worship begins from within.

* [1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "Your Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit")
* [Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Believers as a Holy Temple Built on Christ")
* [Hebrews 9:1-2](/hebrews/9-1-2 "Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of the Temple's interior in 1 Kings 6:15 serves as a profound spiritual metaphor for believers today. If such meticulous care and precious resources were invested in the physical dwelling place of God's presence, how much more should we dedicate our innermost beings—our thoughts, intentions, desires, and character—to Him? The fact that the most exquisite materials were used for the *interior*, much of which would not be seen by the common worshiper, underscores that God values the unseen, the heart, above all else. This verse challenges us to consider the "walls of our house within," our internal spiritual condition. Are we adorning our inner temple with the "cedar" of integrity and the "fir" of faithfulness, or are we neglecting the unseen aspects of our spiritual lives, focusing only on outward appearances? It calls us to cultivate a beautiful and pure heart, recognizing that our bodies are now the [temple of the Holy Spirit](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit"), and our lives are a living offering to the Lord. Our spiritual growth is not merely for public display but for the glory of God who sees all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does the meticulous attention to the Temple's interior reveal about God's character and His expectations for our worship and inner lives?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to focus on external religious practices or appearances while neglecting the "walls of the house within" in our own spiritual lives?**
* **How can we intentionally "cover" our inner being with qualities that are pleasing and honorable to God, like the cedar of integrity and the fir of faithfulness, rather than superficiality?**
* **Considering our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, what specific areas of our inner lives (thoughts, emotions, desires, motives) need more intentional dedication, purification, and beautification for God's glory?**

### FAQ

**Why were such expensive materials used for the interior of the Temple, much of which was not publicly visible?**

Answer: The use of costly and beautiful materials like cedar and fir for the Temple's interior, even in areas not directly visible to the common worshiper, was deeply symbolic and theological. It demonstrated the unparalleled value and reverence placed upon God and His dwelling place. It was an act of profound dedication, signifying that God is worthy of the absolute best, not just for outward show but in every intricate detail. It also underscored the sacredness of the inner sanctuary, particularly the Holy of Holies, where God's presence was believed to reside, emphasizing that the unseen aspects of worship and devotion are paramount to Him. This lavishness also reflected the immense wealth and power of King Solomon, who spared no expense in honoring the Lord, as seen in the broader narrative of [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple"), fulfilling the divine mandate to build a glorious house for the Lord.

**What is the significance of "fir" wood in this context, as opposed to only cedar?**

Answer: The KJV translation "fir" typically refers to *berosh* (בְּרוֹשׁ) in Hebrew, which is often identified as cypress or juniper wood. While cedar was highly prized for its grandeur, aromatic qualities, and resistance to decay, fir/cypress was also a valuable timber in the ancient Near East, known for its durability, straight grain, and pleasant scent. Its use alongside cedar in the Temple's interior provided a complementary material that was strong and workable, particularly suitable for flooring and other paneling. This combination likely offered both aesthetic variety and practical benefits, ensuring the entire structure was built with high-quality, long-lasting materials. The inclusion of fir alongside cedar further emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the Temple's magnificence and the careful selection of every component.

**Does the focus on the Temple's interior imply that external appearance is unimportant in worship or faith?**

Answer: Not necessarily. The verse does not diminish the importance of external appearance but rather elevates the significance of the internal. In ancient cultures, the exterior of a temple was crucial for public perception, awe, and the expression of national identity. However, the meticulous attention to the interior in [1 Kings 6:15](/1_kings/6-15 "1 Kings 6:15 - Interior of Solomon's Temple") highlights that God's concern extends to every detail, especially those that are hidden or only visible to those closest to Him. For believers today, this emphasizes that while outward expressions of faith (e.g., church attendance, public service) are important, the condition of one's heart, motives, and inner character are equally, if not more, vital to God. It encourages a holistic approach to faith, where internal purity and external actions are in harmony, as seen in passages like [Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees"), where Jesus condemns hypocrisy that prioritizes outward show over inner righteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical Temple, with its meticulously crafted and lavishly adorned interior of cedar and fir, serves as a powerful type and shadow pointing to the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity: Jesus Christ. While Solomon's Temple was a temporary structure, subject to destruction, Jesus declared, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")," speaking of the [temple of His body](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple"). Christ is the true and perfect Temple, the ultimate place where God's presence dwells in fullness, "for in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of God in Christ")). The beautiful and costly materials of Solomon's Temple foreshadow the immeasurable worth and glory of Christ's perfect humanity and divine nature, through whom we now have direct access to God the Father. Furthermore, through Christ, believers are transformed into living stones, being "[built up a spiritual house](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Believers as Living Stones")," a holy priesthood, where the Holy Spirit dwells. The detailed care for the Temple's interior, even its unseen parts, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's perfect inner purity and righteousness, which He imputes to us, making us a dwelling place for God's Spirit ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple Built on Christ")). Ultimately, the vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation reveals that there will be "[no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - God and the Lamb are the Temple")," signifying that God's presence in Christ is the eternal and perfect reality to which all earthly temples pointed, a direct and unmediated communion.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 7:7

Then he made a porch for the throne where he might judge, [even] the porch of judgment: and [it was] covered with cedar from one side of the floor to the other.