1 Kings 6:28

KJV

And he overlaid the cherubims with gold.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he overlaid {H6823} the cherubims {H3742} with gold {H2091}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He overlaid the k'ruvim with gold.

Berean Standard Bible

He also overlaid the cherubim with gold.

American Standard Version

And he overlaid the cherubim with gold.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:28 succinctly describes a crucial detail in the construction of Solomon's Temple: the complete overlaying of the colossal cherubim within the inner sanctuary with pure gold. This act was not merely decorative but profoundly symbolic, signifying the immeasurable glory, purity, and sanctity of God's presence. It underscored the supreme value placed upon the divine dwelling place and the sacredness of the space where the Lord's presence was manifested, reflecting a meticulous adherence to divine instruction and an offering of the highest possible honor to the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the detailed architectural blueprint and construction narrative of Solomon's Temple, primarily found in [1 Kings chapter 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple"). Following the general dimensions and materials of the Temple, the text meticulously describes the inner sanctuary, known as the *debir* or Most Holy Place. Verses [1 Kings 6:23-28](/1_kings/6-23 "1 Kings 6:23-28 - The Cherubim in the Inner Sanctuary") specifically focus on the two massive cherubim carved from olive wood, each ten cubits high, positioned to overshadow the Ark of the Covenant. The act of overlaying these guardian figures with gold in verse 28 marks the culmination of their adornment, emphasizing the sanctity and preciousness of the *debir* as the dwelling place of God's manifest presence. This detailed description highlights the meticulousness of the construction and the profound reverence with which every element of the Temple was treated.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, temples served as cosmic centers, connecting the divine and human realms. The use of precious metals, particularly gold, was ubiquitous in temple construction across various cultures, symbolizing divinity, purity, wealth, and royal power. However, for Israel, the Temple's gold was not merely a display of Solomon's opulence but a direct reflection of God's divine glory and holiness, as revealed in the Tabernacle's design (Exodus 25-40). Cherubim, too, were known in ancient Near Eastern iconography as winged guardians of sacred spaces or divine thrones. Yet, in Israel, their role was uniquely defined by divine revelation, serving as symbolic guardians of God's holiness and the bearers of His throne, distinct from pagan deities. Solomon's Temple, built in Jerusalem, was also a centralizing force for Israelite worship, solidifying the Davidic dynasty and the nation's identity around a singular place of worship, as envisioned by [King David](/1_chronicles/28 "1 Chronicles 28 - David's Instructions for the Temple").
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous description of the Temple's construction, culminating in the gold overlay of the cherubim, underscores several key themes. Firstly, **Divine Glory and Majesty** is paramount, as the sheer quantity and purity of gold used throughout the Temple, especially in the Most Holy Place, visually communicated the unparalleled worth and splendor of the God of Israel. Secondly, **Holiness and Sacredness** are emphasized; the gold-covered cherubim guarded the supremely holy space where God's presence was uniquely manifested, setting it apart from all common things. This sanctity demanded the finest materials and craftsmanship. Thirdly, **Obedience to Divine Pattern** is a recurring theme. Solomon's adherence to the detailed plans for the Temple, which David had received by divine inspiration (as seen in [1 Chronicles 28:11-19](/1_chronicles/28-11 "1 Chronicles 28:11-19 - David's Plans for the Temple")), demonstrated his devotion and the importance of following God's revealed will in worship and service. The lavish use of gold, therefore, was not human extravagance but a divinely prescribed expression of worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cherubims (Hebrew, _kĕrûbîm'_):** These are angelic beings, often depicted with wings, associated with guarding sacred spaces and symbolizing God's presence, glory, and sovereignty. In biblical theology, they first appear guarding the [Tree of Life in Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden"), and later prominently feature on the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant") and in prophetic visions (e.g., Ezekiel). In 1 Kings 6, these are colossal, carved figures within the Temple's inner sanctuary, distinct from those on the Ark itself, yet serving a similar symbolic function as guardians of God's holy dwelling.
* **Overlaid (Hebrew, _tsāphāh'_):** This verb signifies a complete covering or plating, often with precious metals. It implies a thorough and intentional act, not just a superficial coating. The choice of this verb emphasizes that the cherubim were not merely decorated but entirely enveloped in gold, signifying their complete consecration and the supreme value placed upon them within the sacred space. The material, "gold" (Hebrew, _zāhāb_), universally symbolizes purity, preciousness, and divine glory, making the act of overlaying the cherubim with it a powerful statement about the nature of God and His dwelling.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he overlaid the cherubims":** This clause identifies the subject ("he," referring to Solomon, acting as the builder and king) and the action of covering. The "cherubims" are the specific objects of this action, highlighting their central importance within the Most Holy Place. The verb "overlaid" (Hebrew _tsāphāh_) implies a complete and thorough covering, indicating that the olive wood figures were entirely enveloped, not merely adorned with gold. This act underscores the meticulousness of the Temple's construction and the absolute dedication to making every part worthy of God's presence.
* **"with gold":** This specifies the material used for the overlay. Gold, the most precious and incorruptible metal in the ancient world, universally symbolized purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value. Its extensive use throughout the Temple, and specifically on the cherubim, was not for human display but to reflect the transcendent glory, holiness, and majesty of the God of Israel. It signified that only the purest and most valuable materials were fitting for His dwelling place, emphasizing the sacredness and set-apartness of the inner sanctuary.

#### Literary Devices
The verse, though concise, employs significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the gold-covered cherubim serving as powerful symbols. The **cherubim** themselves symbolize divine presence, guardianship of holiness, and the throne of God. Their colossal size and placement within the *debir* amplify this symbolism, indicating the awesome and unapproachable nature of God's holiness. The **gold** symbolizes purity, glory, divine majesty, and immense value, transforming the carved wood into a reflection of divine splendor. The act of "overlaying" implies a complete transformation and consecration. Furthermore, there is an element of **Emphasis** through material choice. The repeated mention of gold throughout the Temple's description, culminating in its application to these central figures, underscores the supreme value and reverence attributed to God's dwelling and everything associated with His presence. This emphasis highlights the qualitative difference between the earthly and the divine, asserting God's unparalleled worth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The gold overlay of the cherubim in Solomon's Temple profoundly communicates the ineffable glory and absolute holiness of God. It signifies that God's presence demands the highest reverence, the purest materials, and the most dedicated craftsmanship. This act was not about human ostentation but about offering the very best to the Divine, reflecting His intrinsic worth and the sacredness of His dwelling. The cherubim, as guardians of God's presence, when covered in gold, became vivid representations of the purity and majesty surrounding the divine throne, reminding worshipers of the awesome, yet gracious, God who chose to dwell among His people. This dedication of the most precious resources foreshadows a greater reality: God's desire for a people who would offer themselves wholly to Him, reflecting His glory not in material gold, but in lives transformed by His Spirit.

* [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")
* [Revelation 4:6-8](/revelation/4-6 "Revelation 4:6-8 - The Four Living Creatures Around God's Throne")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The lavish gold covering of the cherubim in Solomon's Temple serves as a powerful reminder of the profound reverence and supreme worth due to God. It challenges us to consider what "gold" we are offering in our own lives, not in terms of material wealth, but in the quality of our devotion, the purity of our motives, and the sincerity of our worship. Just as every detail of the Temple was consecrated and made precious for God's dwelling, so too should our lives be set apart for Him. We are called to offer our "best" – our time, talents, resources, and affections – as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (as exhorted in [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")). This verse invites us to cultivate a deep sense of awe and wonder for God's holiness and glory, recognizing that His presence transforms and sanctifies everything it touches. It encourages us to live lives that reflect His splendor, not for our own glory, but as a testament to His immeasurable worth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does the extensive use of gold in the Temple teach us about the value we should place on God and His presence in our lives today?**
* **How can we, in a non-material way, "overlay" our lives, actions, and worship with the "gold" of purity, devotion, and excellence for God's glory?**
* **Considering the cherubim as guardians of holiness, what "sacred spaces" in our lives (e.g., our thoughts, relationships, time) do we need to protect and consecrate to God?**
* **In what ways does our contemporary worship reflect the same level of reverence and intentionality seen in the construction of Solomon's Temple?**

### FAQ

**Why was so much gold used in the Temple, especially on the cherubim?**

Answer: The extensive use of gold in the Temple, including the cherubim, was not for human ostentation or to impress other nations with Solomon's wealth. Instead, it was primarily symbolic, reflecting the divine glory, purity, and holiness of God. Gold, being the most precious and incorruptible metal, was considered the most fitting material to represent the transcendent majesty of the Lord. It underscored the absolute worth of God and the sacredness of the space where His presence was uniquely manifested. This was in keeping with the divine pattern for the Tabernacle, which also utilized significant amounts of gold, indicating that God's dwelling place demanded the very best and purest offerings.

**What is the significance of the cherubim in the Temple?**

Answer: The cherubim in the Temple, particularly the two colossal figures in the Most Holy Place, served several significant roles. They were symbolic guardians of God's holiness and the sacred space, echoing their role in guarding the [Tree of Life in Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life"). They also represented the divine throne or chariot, signifying God's sovereignty and His presence among His people. Their overshadowing of the Ark of the Covenant, though distinct from the smaller cherubim on the Ark itself, visually reinforced the idea that this was the place where God's glory resided and where He communed with His people. They were a constant visual reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God's holiness and His transcendence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The gold-overlaid cherubim in Solomon's Temple, guarding the Most Holy Place, powerfully foreshadowed the ultimate reality of God's dwelling among humanity in Jesus Christ. The Temple, with all its glorious furnishings, was a shadow pointing to Christ, who is the true and perfect Temple, the very dwelling place of God on earth. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") states, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." In Christ, the fullness of God dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - The Fullness of God in Christ")), making Him the ultimate manifestation of divine glory and holiness, far surpassing any earthly structure overlaid with gold. Through His sacrificial death, the veil separating humanity from God's presence was torn ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Veil Torn")), opening a new and living way into the Most Holy Place, not by the blood of animals or the mediation of earthly priests, but by the blood of Christ Himself ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood")). Thus, the gold-covered cherubim, once symbols of guarded access to God's presence, are fulfilled in Christ, who is our direct and eternal access to the Father, making us, through Him, living temples where the Spirit of God now dwells ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as God's Dwelling")).

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.