1 Kings 6:23

KJV

And within the oracle he made two cherubims [of] olive tree, [each] ten cubits high.

KJV (with Strong's)

And within the oracle {H1687} he made {H6213} two {H8147} cherubims {H3742} of olive {H8081} tree {H6086}, each ten {H6235} cubits {H520} high {H6967}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Inside the sanctuary he made two k'ruvim of olive-wood, each seventeen-and-a-half feet high.

Berean Standard Bible

In the inner sanctuary he made two cherubim, each ten cubits high, out of olive wood.

American Standard Version

And in the oracle he made two cherubim of olive-wood, each ten cubits high.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:23 meticulously details the construction of two colossal cherubim within the "oracle" or Holy of Holies of Solomon's Temple. These magnificent figures, crafted from olive wood and standing ten cubits high, were central to the innermost sanctuary, underscoring the profound holiness, divine presence, and restricted access to God's dwelling place among His people. Their presence reinforced the awe-inspiring majesty of the Almighty and the sacredness of the space where His glory resided.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the highly detailed account of King Solomon's construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, specifically in 1 Kings 6, which provides an architectural blueprint of the sacred edifice. Following general descriptions of the Temple's dimensions, materials, and overall structure (1 Kings 6:1-22), verse 23 shifts focus to the innermost and most sacred chamber: the "oracle" or Holy of Holies. This precise description of the cherubim prepares the reader for the subsequent details of their placement, their wingspan, and their overlaying with gold (1 Kings 6:24-28), all leading to the ultimate placement of the Ark of the Covenant within this sanctified space (1 Kings 8:6-9). The narrative emphasizes the meticulous adherence to divine instruction in creating a dwelling fitting for God's presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's Temple was the culmination of Israel's desire for a permanent dwelling place for God, succeeding the portable Tabernacle. Built in the 10th century BCE, it became the epicenter of Israelite worship and national identity. The concept of cherubim as guardians of sacred space and attendants to the divine throne was not unique to Israel, with similar winged figures appearing in ancient Near Eastern iconography. However, in Israel, they were distinctively associated with Yahweh's majesty and holiness, never worshipped themselves. Olive wood, from which these cherubim were carved, was highly valued in the ancient world for its durability, beauty, and association with anointing oil, symbolizing consecration and divine blessing. Its use here signifies the permanence, richness, and consecrated nature of the Temple's most sacred elements.
* **Key Themes:** The construction of these cherubim within the oracle directly contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, **Divine Presence and Holiness** is paramount; the cherubim, consistently linked with God's glory and throne (e.g., [Ezekiel 1:5-12](/ezekiel/1-5 "Ezekiel's Vision of Cherubim")), signify the profound sanctity and awe-inspiring nature of God's dwelling. Their placement in the Holy of Holies underscored the restricted access to God, permitted only to the High Priest on the Day of Atonement. Secondly, they represent **Guardians of the Sacred**; from their role guarding the [Tree of Life in Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Tree of Life") to their presence atop the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18 - Cherubim on the Mercy Seat"), cherubim consistently delineate and protect holy space. Finally, the sheer **Temple Symbolism** conveyed by their massive size (ten cubits high, approximately 15 feet) and precious material (olive wood, overlaid with gold as per [1 Kings 6:28](/1_kings/6-28 "1 Kings 6:28 - Cherubim Overlaid with Gold")) highlights the immense value, reverence, and spiritual significance attributed to God's earthly abode.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Oracle (Hebrew, _debîr'_):** This term specifically designates the innermost sanctuary of the Temple, also known as the Holy of Holies. It derives from a root meaning "to speak," suggesting it was the place where God spoke or communicated with His people, particularly through the High Priest. It was the most sacred and restricted area, separated by a veil, where the Ark of the Covenant resided, symbolizing the concentrated presence of God.
* **Cherubims (Hebrew, _kĕrûḇîm'_):** The plural form of "cherub," these are celestial or angelic beings. In biblical theology, cherubim are consistently associated with God's glory, His throne, and His presence, often depicted with wings and multiple faces (though not described in detail here, other passages like [Ezekiel 1:5-12](/ezekiel/1-5 "Ezekiel's Vision of Cherubim") provide more elaborate descriptions). Their primary function is to guard divine holiness and mediate access to God, serving as a visible reminder of His majesty and transcendence.
* **Olive tree (Hebrew, _‘ēṣ šemen'_):** Literally "tree of oil," referring to the olive wood. This material was highly prized for its durability, resistance to decay, and fine grain, making it suitable for carving. Symbolically, the olive tree is associated with anointing oil, which was used for consecration and divine blessing. Its use for the cherubim signifies not only the Temple's richness and permanence but also the sacredness and divine appointment of these figures.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And within the oracle":** This phrase precisely locates the cherubim within the `debîr`, the innermost and most sacred chamber of the Temple. This emphasizes the profound holiness and restricted nature of the space, accessible only to the High Priest, and even then, only once a year on the Day of Atonement. The placement signifies that these figures are intimately connected with the very heart of God's dwelling.
* **"he made two cherubims [of] olive tree":** "He" refers to Solomon, acting under divine instruction. The creation of "two" cherubim suggests symmetry and completeness, mirroring the two cherubim on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant. The choice of "olive tree" (olive wood) is significant, denoting durability, beauty, and symbolic associations with anointing, consecration, and divine blessing, highlighting the preciousness and sacred purpose of these figures.
* **"[each] ten cubits high":** This detail specifies the monumental scale of these cherubim. Ten cubits is approximately 15 feet (4.5 meters), making them towering, imposing figures. Their immense size would have filled the Holy of Holies, creating an overwhelming sense of awe and reverence, further emphasizing the majesty of God and the sanctity of His presence.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Precision** and **Detail** are paramount, reflecting the meticulous nature of the Temple's construction as divinely ordained. Every measurement and material choice carries theological weight, underscoring the importance of God's dwelling. **Symbolism** is rich, with the cherubim themselves symbolizing divine presence, guardianship of holiness, and the inaccessibility of God to sinful humanity. The choice of **olive wood** further symbolizes permanence, anointing, and the sacredness of the Temple. The sheer scale implied by "ten cubits high" evokes a sense of **Awe** and **Grandeur**, contributing to the overall atmosphere of reverence and majesty surrounding God's dwelling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The construction of these cherubim in the Holy of Holies profoundly illustrates God's transcendent holiness and His desire, yet also His separation, from sinful humanity. Their presence, guarding the most sacred space, reiterates the biblical truth that access to God's unmediated presence is both a profound privilege and a dangerous endeavor for the unholy. They serve as a physical representation of the spiritual barriers that sin creates between humanity and a holy God, necessitating a divinely appointed means of access and atonement. This concept of guarded access and the need for mediation is a consistent theme throughout salvation history, from Eden to the Temple.

* [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Mercy Seat")
* [Ezekiel 10:1-22](/ezekiel/10-1 "Ezekiel 10:1-22 - Ezekiel's Vision of Cherubim and God's Glory")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical Temple and its cherubim no longer stand, the spiritual truths they represent endure. This verse reminds us of the awesome holiness of God and the profound reverence due to Him. It challenges us to consider how we approach God, recognizing that His presence is not to be taken lightly. For believers today, the New Testament teaches that our bodies are the [temple of the Holy Spirit](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Believers as Temples of the Holy Spirit"), and the church is God's dwelling place. This spiritual reality calls us to a life of holiness, purity, and intentional reverence, understanding that God truly dwells among us. The cherubim, guarding access, foreshadowed the ultimate mediator who would open the way, prompting us to cherish the access we now have through Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the description of the cherubim's size and placement in the Holy of Holies impact your understanding of God's holiness and majesty?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate a greater sense of reverence and awe for God in our personal lives and corporate worship today?**
* **Considering that believers are now "temples of the Holy Spirit," how should this truth influence our daily choices and our pursuit of holiness?**

### FAQ

**What was the purpose of the cherubim in the Holy of Holies?**

Answer: The cherubim in the Holy of Holies served multiple profound purposes. Primarily, they were **guardians of divine holiness**, symbolizing the sacredness and restricted nature of God's immediate presence. Just as cherubim guarded the [Tree of Life in Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Tree of Life") after the fall, these Temple cherubim visually reinforced that access to God's unmediated presence was not to be taken lightly and was limited to the High Priest, and only once a year. They also **symbolized God's throne and glory**, often depicted in scripture as attendants to His divine chariot-throne (e.g., [Ezekiel 1:5-12](/ezekiel/1-5 "Ezekiel's Vision of Cherubim")). Though they were not worshipped, their imposing presence instilled awe and reverence, directing attention to the transcendent majesty of the God who dwelt between them. They were a constant reminder of the profound separation between a holy God and sinful humanity, highlighting the need for atonement and mediation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The cherubim in Solomon's Temple, guarding the Holy of Holies and symbolizing the restricted access to God's presence, find their ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. In the Old Covenant, the cherubim stood as a perpetual reminder of the barrier between a holy God and sinful humanity, a barrier that only the High Priest could briefly and ritually cross once a year, through blood sacrifice. However, Jesus, by His perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection, became the **ultimate High Priest** ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) and the **perfect sacrifice** ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). His crucifixion saw the **Temple veil torn in two** from top to bottom ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Veil Torn")), signifying that the way into God's presence, once guarded by cherubim and a physical barrier, was now permanently opened through Him. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of the temple of His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")), revealing that He is the true dwelling place of God, the embodiment of divine presence. Through Christ, believers are now invited to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" into the very Holy of Holies ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")), no longer needing cherubim to guard access, but rather having direct, unhindered access to God's throne of grace through the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

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

Exodus 37:7

And he made two cherubims [of] gold, beaten out of one piece made he them, on the two ends of the mercy seat;

Exodus 37:9

And the cherubims spread out [their] wings on high, [and] covered with their wings over the mercy seat, with their faces one to another; [even] to the mercy seatward were the faces of the cherubims.

Exodus 25:18

And thou shalt make two cherubims [of] gold, [of] beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.

Exodus 25:22

And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which [are] upon the ark of the testimony, of all [things] which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.

Psalms 80:1

¶ To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph. Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest [between] the cherubims, shine forth.

Isaiah 37:16

O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, that dwellest [between] the cherubims, thou [art] the God, [even] thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth.

Psalms 18:10

And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.