1 Kings 6:29

KJV

And he carved all the walls of the house round about with carved figures of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers, within and without.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he carved {H7049} all the walls {H7023} of the house {H1004} round about {H4524} with carved {H6603} figures {H4734} of cherubims {H3742} and palm trees {H8561} and open {H6362} flowers {H6731}, within {H6441} and without {H2435}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All around the walls of the house, both inside the sanctuary and outside it, he carved figures of k'ruvim, palm trees and open flowers.

Berean Standard Bible

Then he carved the walls all around the temple, in both the inner and outer sanctuaries, with carved engravings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers.

American Standard Version

And he carved all the walls of the house round about with carved figures of cherubim and palm-trees and open flowers, within and without.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:29 meticulously details the elaborate artistry adorning the interior walls of Solomon's Temple, describing carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. This verse underscores the profound dedication to beauty and symbolic meaning in constructing a sacred space intended as the dwelling place for the Lord's presence, reflecting a comprehensive and intentional approach to worship and divine reverence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a highly detailed architectural account in [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple"), which describes the construction of Solomon's magnificent Temple. Following generations of worship centered around the portable Tabernacle, this permanent structure in Jerusalem marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history. The preceding verses (e.g., [1 Kings 6:14-28](/1_kings/6-14 "1 Kings 6:14-28 - Temple Interior Details")) detail the materials—cedar, cypress, gold—and the layout of the inner sanctuary, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (the inner sanctuary). Verse 29 specifically focuses on the ubiquitous decorative elements applied to these finished surfaces, emphasizing the thoroughness of the adornment before the final furnishings were brought in.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Temple by King Solomon (c. 960 BC) was a monumental undertaking, signifying Israel's emergence as a powerful and established kingdom. In the ancient Near East, temples were considered microcosms of the cosmos and dwelling places for deities, often lavishly decorated to reflect the god's power and the king's wealth. Solomon's use of skilled craftsmen from Tyre (e.g., Hiram, as mentioned in [1 Kings 7:13-14](/1_kings/7-13 "1 Kings 7:13-14 - Hiram's Craftsmanship")) and the finest materials was typical of royal building projects of the era, but here it was uniquely dedicated to Yahweh. The symbolic motifs of cherubim, palm trees, and flowers were common in ancient art, often associated with divine presence, fertility, and paradisiacal imagery, imbuing the Temple with deep theological meaning relevant to the Israelite understanding of God's sovereignty and creation.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous description of the Temple's adornment in [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple") highlights several key themes. Firstly, **Divine Presence and Holiness** are paramount, especially through the pervasive imagery of the cherubim, angelic beings intimately associated with God's throne and guarding sacred spaces (as seen in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden") and on the Ark of the Covenant in [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark")). Secondly, the inclusion of **Beauty, Life, and Abundance** is evident in the palm trees and open flowers, which evoke themes of flourishing, righteousness ([Psalm 92:12](/psalms/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish")), and an Eden-like paradise, symbolizing God's creative power and blessing. Finally, the verse underscores **Excellence and Dedication in Worship**, as every surface, "within and without," was meticulously adorned, reflecting a complete commitment to creating a space worthy of the Almighty and demonstrating the profound reverence due to the Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **carved figures (Hebrew, _miqla'ot'_):** This term refers to intricate relief work, engravings, or sculptures. It signifies not merely painted designs but three-dimensional artistry carved directly into the wood, likely cedar, which would then have been overlaid with gold (as indicated in [1 Kings 6:21-22](/1_kings/6-21 "1 Kings 6:21-22 - Gold Overlay in the Temple")). The use of "carved figures" highlights the exceptional skill and labor invested, transforming the Temple's walls into a tactile and visually rich theological statement, distinct from simpler forms of decoration.
* **cherubims (Hebrew, _keruvim'_):** These are celestial beings, often depicted with wings, associated with guarding sacred spaces and attending to God's presence. Their prominent placement throughout the Temple walls, along with their depiction on the Ark of the Covenant ([Exodus 25:18-20](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-20 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")), signifies the Temple as God's holy dwelling place, a sanctuary where divine presence was manifested and protected. Their omnipresence served as a constant reminder of God's immanence and transcendence.
* **palm trees (Hebrew, _timorot'_):** Palm trees were significant symbols in the ancient Near East, representing life, fertility, prosperity, victory, and righteousness. Their inclusion in the Temple's decor evokes themes of flourishing and vitality, suggesting that the divine presence within the Temple brings life and blessing. In a broader sense, they connect the sacred space to the natural world, reflecting God as the Creator and sustainer of all life, and hinting at a paradisiacal, Edenic environment.
* **open flowers (Hebrew, _p'turei tzitzim'_):** This phrase refers to blossoming flowers, specifically those that are fully open. Like palm trees, flowers symbolize beauty, life, renewal, and the intricate detail of God's creation. Their "open" state suggests fullness, vibrancy, and perhaps an invitation or unfolding of divine beauty. Together with the palm trees, they contribute to an overall motif of a vibrant, living sanctuary, a garden of God's presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he carved all the walls of the house round about":** This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the decoration. The artistry was not limited to specific sections but encompassed every interior wall, creating an immersive sacred environment. "Round about" signifies the complete encirclement of the interior spaces, ensuring no surface was left unadorned, reflecting a total dedication to the beauty and sanctity of God's dwelling.
* **"with carved figures of cherubims":** The cherubim were central to the Temple's iconography. Their depiction on the walls reinforced the understanding of the Temple as a place of divine encounter, guarded and attended by heavenly beings. This imagery connected the earthly sanctuary to the heavenly throne room of God, where cherubim are also present (e.g., [Ezekiel 10:1-22](/ezekiel/10 "Ezekiel 10 - Cherubim and God's Glory")).
* **"and palm trees and open flowers":** These natural motifs introduced elements of life, beauty, and flourishing into the sacred space. They served to transform the Temple into a visual representation of an Edenic paradise, a place where God's creative power and abundant blessing were evident. This imagery also subtly connected the Temple to the Tree of Life and the garden motif found throughout biblical narrative, suggesting a return to or anticipation of perfect communion with God.
* **"within and without":** In the context of "all the walls of the house," this phrase most likely refers to the comprehensive decoration of all interior wall surfaces, including the inner and outer faces of internal partitions (e.g., between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place), rather than the exterior facade of the building. It underscores the thoroughness of the internal artistry, ensuring that every visible surface within the Temple's sacred confines was adorned with these symbolic carvings.

#### Literary Devices
1 Kings 6:29 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Imagery** is paramount, as the verse paints a vivid picture of the Temple's interior, allowing the reader to visualize the intricate carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. This detailed visual description contributes to the sense of awe and reverence associated with the sacred space. **Symbolism** is deeply embedded in each carved element: the **cherubim** symbolize divine presence, holiness, and guardianship; the **palm trees** represent life, righteousness, and flourishing; and the **open flowers** convey beauty, new life, and God's intricate creation. These symbols collectively transform the physical structure into a theological statement, reflecting the character of God and the nature of His dwelling. Furthermore, the phrase "all the walls... round about... within and without" utilizes **Emphasis** through repetition and comprehensive scope, highlighting the pervasive and complete nature of the adornment, underscoring the meticulous dedication to excellence in constructing God's house.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The elaborate decoration of Solomon's Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6:29, powerfully communicates God's desire for beauty, excellence, and symbolic richness in worship. It reveals that the sacred space was not merely functional but was designed to evoke a sense of awe, holiness, and the abundant life found in God's presence. The cherubim reminded worshippers of God's transcendent glory and the guarded nature of His holiness, while the natural motifs of palm trees and flowers pointed to His role as Creator and the source of all life and blessing. This physical Temple, adorned with such care, served as a tangible representation of spiritual realities, foreshadowing a deeper, more profound dwelling of God among His people.

* [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")
* [Ezekiel 41:18-20](/ezekiel/41-18 "Ezekiel 41:18-20 - Temple Vision with Cherubim and Palm Trees")
* [Revelation 21:22-23](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22-23 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous artistry described in 1 Kings 6:29 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. While we no longer worship in a physical temple of stone and gold, the principle of offering our very best to God remains paramount. The beauty and intentionality of the Temple's design challenge us to consider the quality of our own spiritual lives and corporate worship. Are we "carving" our lives with devotion, excellence, and symbols that reflect God's glory? This verse reminds us that true worship involves not just our words and actions but also the beauty and integrity of our hearts and the environments we create for communal worship. It encourages us to cultivate spaces—both physical and spiritual—that are conducive to reverence, reflection, and a deep sense of God's holy presence, striving for excellence in all that we dedicate to Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on beauty and intricate detail in the Temple's construction inform our understanding of God's character and His value for excellence?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals or as a church community, "carve" and adorn our spiritual lives and gathering spaces to reflect God's glory and invite His presence?**
* **Considering the symbolic nature of the cherubim, palm trees, and flowers, what "imagery" do our lives and worship practices project about God to the world around us?**

### FAQ
**Why were cherubim so prominent in the Temple's design?**

Answer: Cherubim were prominent in the Temple's design because they are celestial beings intimately associated with God's presence, holiness, and glory throughout scripture. From guarding the way to the tree of life in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden") to being depicted on the Ark of the Covenant ([Exodus 25:18-20](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-20 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")) and serving as the living chariot of God's throne ([Ezekiel 1:5-28](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Vision of the Cherubim")), cherubim consistently signify the immediate vicinity of the divine. Their pervasive presence on the Temple walls served to emphasize that this was indeed God's holy dwelling place, a sanctuary where His transcendent glory resided and was protected.

**What is the significance of palm trees and open flowers in the Temple's carvings?**

Answer: Palm trees and open flowers carried rich symbolic meaning in the ancient world and for Israel. Palm trees often symbolized life, fertility, victory, prosperity, and righteousness (e.g., [Psalm 92:12](/psalms/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish Like a Palm Tree")). Open flowers represented beauty, new life, and the intricate detail of God's creation. Together, these natural motifs transformed the Temple into a visual representation of an Eden-like paradise, a place of abundant life and blessing, connecting the sacred space to God's creative power and His desire for His people to flourish in His presence. They evoked a sense of beauty, vitality, and the promise of renewal.

**Does "within and without" mean the outside of the Temple was also carved?**

Answer: While the KJV phrase "within and without" can sometimes imply both interior and exterior surfaces, in the specific context of [1 Kings 6:29](/1_kings/6-29 "1 Kings 6:29 - Temple Carvings"), which details the interior adornment of the Temple's walls, it most likely refers to the comprehensive decoration of all interior wall surfaces. This could include the inner and outer faces of internal partitions (such as the wall separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place) or simply emphasizes the thoroughness of the internal artistry, ensuring that every visible surface within the sacred confines was adorned with these symbolic carvings. The primary focus of the chapter is on the construction and decoration of the Temple's inner sanctum.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The elaborate beauty and profound symbolism of Solomon's Temple, particularly its intricate carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, find their ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The physical Temple, designed as God's dwelling place among His people, was merely a shadow of the true and perfect Temple—Jesus Himself. As the Incarnate Word, Christ is the very embodiment of God's presence, the one in whom "all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). He declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to the temple of His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus, the True Temple")). The cherubim, symbolizing divine presence and holiness, point to Christ as the perfect revelation of God, the one through whom we have access to the Holy of Holies ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to the Holy Place Through Christ")). The palm trees and open flowers, representing life, flourishing, and an Edenic paradise, are fully realized in Christ, who is the source of abundant life ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life in Christ")) and the "firstfruits" of a new creation. Furthermore, the Church, as the body of Christ, becomes a "spiritual house" and a "holy temple in the Lord," built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - The Church as a Holy Temple")). Ultimately, the New Jerusalem, where there is no need for a temple because "the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")), signifies the complete and eternal fulfillment of God's desire to dwell perfectly and beautifully with His people through Christ.

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 6:32

The two doors also [were of] olive tree; and he carved upon them carvings of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers, and overlaid [them] with gold, and spread gold upon the cherubims, and upon the palm trees.

Exodus 36:8

¶ And every wise hearted man among them that wrought the work of the tabernacle made ten curtains [of] fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: [with] cherubims of cunning work made he them.

Revelation 5:11

And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

Revelation 5:14

And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

2 Chronicles 3:14

And he made the vail [of] blue, and purple, and crimson, and fine linen, and wrought cherubims thereon.

1 Kings 6:18

And the cedar of the house within [was] carved with knops and open flowers: all [was] cedar; there was no stone seen.

Psalms 148:2

Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts.