1 Kings 6:32

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

The two {H8147} doors {H1817} also were of olive {H8081} tree {H6086}; and he carved {H7049} upon them carvings {H4734} of cherubims {H3742} and palm trees {H8561} and open {H6362} flowers {H6731}, and overlaid {H6823} them with gold {H2091}, and spread {H7286} gold {H2091} upon the cherubims {H3742}, and upon the palm trees {H8561}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On the two olive-wood doors he carved figures of k'ruvim, palm trees and open flowers. He overlaid the doors with gold, forcing the gold into the shapes of the k'ruvim and palm trees as well.

Berean Standard Bible

The double doors were made of olive wood, and he carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers and overlaid the cherubim and palm trees with hammered gold.

American Standard Version

So he made two doors of olive-wood; and he carved upon them carvings of cherubim and palm-trees and open flowers, and overlaid them with gold; and he spread the gold upon the cherubim, and upon the palm-trees.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:32 meticulously describes the exquisite craftsmanship and profound symbolism of the two doors leading from the Holy Place into the Most Holy Place, or Holy of Holies, within Solomon's Temple. Fashioned from olive wood and lavishly overlaid with gold, these doors were intricately carved with cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, signifying the sacredness, beauty, and divine presence associated with God's dwelling place. This verse highlights the unparalleled dedication and precious materials consecrated for the Lord's sanctuary, emphasizing the holiness and glory of the innermost sanctuary.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a highly detailed account of the construction of Solomon's Temple, specifically in [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple"). Following the general dimensions and materials described in the opening verses, the chapter progressively narrows its focus to the internal structure and ornamentation. Verse 32 specifically details the "doors of the oracle" (KJV: "the two doors also [were of] olive tree"), which are the entrance to the Most Holy Place, the innermost sanctuary where the Ark of the Covenant would reside. This section follows the description of the inner sanctuary itself in [1 Kings 6:16-22](/1_kings/6-16-22 "1 Kings 6:16-22 - The Inner Sanctuary"), which also mentions its cedar walls and gold overlay, reinforcing the continuity of precious materials and sacred design. The meticulous detail underscores the divine blueprint and the reverence with which this sacred space was constructed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the First Temple under King Solomon (c. 960 BCE) was a monumental undertaking, symbolizing the peak of Israel's national and spiritual identity. It marked a significant shift from the portable Tabernacle to a permanent, grand edifice in Jerusalem, establishing the city as the religious and political capital. Olive wood, a durable and beautiful timber, was abundant in ancient Israel and highly valued for its strength and resistance to decay, making it a fitting choice for such crucial architectural elements. The use of gold for overlay was common in ancient Near Eastern temples, signifying immense wealth, divine presence, and purity. The elaborate carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and flowers were not merely decorative but deeply symbolic, drawing from established iconographic traditions that communicated theological truths about God's presence, protection, and the flourishing life found in His sanctuary. The scale and opulence of the Temple reflected Solomon's vast resources and Israel's commitment to honoring God.
* **Key Themes:** The detailed description in [1 Kings 6:32](/1_kings/6-32 "1 Kings 6:32 - Description of the Temple Doors") contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes the **holiness and transcendence of God**, as evidenced by the meticulous design and precious materials used for His dwelling place, particularly the Most Holy Place. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **divine instruction and human obedience**, as Solomon's construction meticulously followed the pattern revealed by God, echoing the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"). Thirdly, the symbolism of cherubim, palm trees, and flowers speaks to **God's protective presence, the beauty of His creation, and the prosperity and righteousness** associated with His covenant people. Finally, the lavish use of gold underscores the **glory and majesty of God**, demonstrating that only the best was deemed worthy for the sanctuary of the Lord, a theme consistently found in descriptions of sacred spaces in the Old Testament, such as the Tabernacle in [Exodus 26](/exodus/26 "Exodus 26 - The Tabernacle Construction").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Olive Tree (Hebrew, _'etz zayit'_):** The choice of olive wood (עֵץ זַיִת) for the doors of the Most Holy Place is highly significant. The olive tree was revered in ancient Israel, known for its longevity, strength, and the valuable oil it produced, which was used for anointing, fuel, and food. Symbolically, the olive tree often represented peace, prosperity, anointing, and divine blessing. Its use here suggests the enduring nature of God's presence, the sacred anointing associated with the sanctuary, and the peace found in drawing near to God. It also implies a connection to the Tree of Life imagery, given its placement at the entrance to the most sacred space.
* **Cherubims (Hebrew, _'keruvim'_):** The Hebrew term כְּרוּבִים refers to celestial beings, often depicted with wings, who serve as guardians of sacred spaces and attendants to God's throne. Their first appearance is guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden"), preventing access to the Tree of Life after the Fall. They are also prominently featured on the Ark of the Covenant ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18-22 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark")) and throughout the Tabernacle and Temple imagery. Their presence on these doors reinforces the profound holiness of the inner sanctuary, signifying God's protective presence and the restricted access to His immediate glory.
* **Overlaid (Hebrew, _'tsaphah'_):** The verb צָפָה, meaning "to overlay" or "to plate," emphasizes the complete covering of the olive wood doors and their carvings with pure gold. This act of overlaying transforms the material, elevating its value and appearance. In biblical contexts, gold consistently symbolizes purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value. The act of overlaying with gold signifies that the items are consecrated for divine use, reflecting God's glory and the sacredness of His presence. It suggests that what is seen is not merely wood, but a divine manifestation, gleaming with the splendor of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The two doors also [were of] olive tree;":** This clause identifies the material of the doors leading into the Most Holy Place. The use of "also" connects these doors to the previous descriptions of the Temple's construction, emphasizing their specific material. Olive wood, as discussed, was a durable and symbolically rich choice, signifying longevity, peace, and anointing, appropriate for the entrance to God's most sacred dwelling.
* **"and he carved upon them carvings of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers,":** This details the intricate decorative elements on the olive wood doors. The "carvings" (מִקְלָעוֹת, _miqla'ot_) indicate skilled, three-dimensional artistry. The combination of cherubim (celestial guardians), palm trees (symbols of righteousness, victory, and flourishing), and open flowers (representing life, beauty, and growth) creates a rich tapestry of theological meaning. These motifs transform the doors into a visual sermon, reflecting the nature of the God who dwells within and the blessings associated with His presence.
* **"and overlaid [them] with gold, and spread gold upon the cherubims, and upon the palm trees.":** This final clause describes the lavish application of gold, not just on the doors themselves, but specifically highlighting that the gold was spread over the carved cherubim and palm trees. This repetition and emphasis on the gold overlay underscore the immense value, purity, and divine glory attributed to every detail of the Most Holy Place. The gold would have made the doors gleam, reflecting light and creating an awe-inspiring entrance to the very presence of God, signifying His supreme worth and majesty.

#### Literary Devices
1 Kings 6:32 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. **Symbolism** is paramount, with each carved element carrying profound theological weight. The **cherubim** symbolize divine guardianship and the sacredness of God's presence, harkening back to their role in Eden. The **palm trees** symbolize righteousness, victory, and flourishing life, often associated with the blessedness found in God's presence. The **open flowers** represent beauty, vitality, and the life-giving nature of God. The choice of **olive wood** itself symbolizes peace, anointing, and enduring strength. Furthermore, the **gold overlay** is a powerful symbol of purity, divinity, royalty, and the immeasurable glory of God. **Repetition** is also evident in the phrase "and overlaid [them] with gold, and spread gold upon the cherubims, and upon the palm trees," which emphasizes the thoroughness and abundance of the gold application, underscoring the immense value and sacredness of the doors. Finally, the verse uses vivid **Imagery**, allowing the reader to visualize the gleaming, intricately carved doors, creating a sense of awe and reverence for the sacred space they guarded.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous description of the doors in 1 Kings 6:32, particularly their material and ornamentation, speaks volumes about the nature of God and the access to His presence in the Old Covenant. These doors, leading to the Holy of Holies, represented the ultimate barrier to God's immediate presence, emphasizing His profound holiness and transcendent glory. Only the High Priest, once a year, could pass through them, and only with the blood of atonement. The beauty and preciousness of the doors underscored that God is worthy of the absolute best, and His dwelling place is set apart from all that is common. The symbolism of the cherubim, palm trees, and flowers not only adorned the entrance but also served as a visual reminder of the divine protection, the flourishing life, and the righteousness associated with being in God's presence, even as that presence remained veiled and restricted. This physical barrier foreshadowed the spiritual separation between a holy God and sinful humanity, a separation that would later be overcome.

* [Exodus 26:33-34](/exodus/26-33-34 "The Veil of the Tabernacle")
* [Hebrews 9:1-8](/hebrews/9-1-8 "Hebrews 9:1-8 - Earthly Sanctuary and Heavenly Reality")
* [Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed description of the Temple doors in 1 Kings 6:32, though seemingly architectural, offers profound spiritual lessons for believers today. It reminds us of the extraordinary reverence and excellence due to God. Solomon spared no expense, using the finest materials and craftsmanship, to create a dwelling place for the Lord. This challenges us to consider the quality of our own worship, service, and offerings to God. Are we giving Him our "olive wood and gold," or are we content with the mediocre? The doors also highlight the holiness of God and the awe-inspiring nature of His presence. While the physical Temple no longer stands, the New Testament reveals that believers are now the [temple of the Holy Spirit](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple"), and the Church is being built into a spiritual house with Christ as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - The Church as a Spiritual Temple")). This shifts the focus from a physical structure to a spiritual reality, where God's presence resides within His people. The elaborate symbolism on the doors invites us to look beyond the surface, to seek deeper spiritual truths in God's Word and in His creation, recognizing that every detail of His design points to His character and purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does the meticulous detail and preciousness of the Temple doors in 1 Kings 6:32 reveal about God's character and His worthiness of our best?**
* **How does the symbolism of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers on the Temple doors speak to the nature of God's presence and the life found in Him?**
* **Considering that believers are now the "temple of the Holy Spirit," how should the excellence and holiness described in this verse influence our personal lives and corporate worship?**
* **In what ways can we, like the Temple builders, offer our "finest materials" – our gifts, time, and resources – to honor God and build up His spiritual house today?**

### FAQ
**Why were the doors to the Most Holy Place made of olive wood and then overlaid with gold?**

Answer: The choice of olive wood and gold for the doors of the Most Holy Place was highly significant, combining practicality with profound symbolism. Olive wood was a durable, beautiful, and readily available timber in ancient Israel, known for its strength and resistance to decay, making it suitable for a structure intended to last. Symbolically, the olive tree was associated with peace, anointing, prosperity, and divine blessing, fitting for the entrance to God's sacred presence. The overlay of gold, however, elevated the doors beyond mere wood. Gold consistently symbolized purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value in ancient Near Eastern cultures and throughout the Bible. By completely covering the olive wood and its carvings with gold, the doors were transformed into a radiant testament to God's glory, majesty, and the sacredness of the space they guarded. It signified that only the most precious and pure materials were deemed worthy for the immediate presence of the Holy God.

**What is the significance of the cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers carved on the doors?**

Answer: These carvings were not merely decorative but deeply symbolic, communicating theological truths about God's presence and the nature of His sanctuary. **Cherubim** are celestial beings associated with guarding sacred spaces and God's throne. Their presence on the doors, much like their role in guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden") and their depiction on the Ark of the Covenant ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18-22 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark")), emphasized the profound holiness of the Most Holy Place and the restricted access to God's immediate presence. **Palm trees** frequently symbolize victory, righteousness, flourishing, and prosperity in biblical literature. Their inclusion suggested the spiritual fruitfulness and triumph associated with God's dwelling, often likening the righteous to flourishing trees ([Psalm 92:12](/psalm/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish")). **Open flowers** represented beauty, life, and growth, contributing to the overall aesthetic of a vibrant, living sanctuary and reflecting God's artistry in creation. Together, these motifs created a rich visual narrative of divine protection, blessing, and the flourishing life found in God's presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The elaborate doors of olive wood, overlaid with gold and carved with cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, served as a powerful symbol of the restricted access to God's holy presence under the Old Covenant. They marked the boundary to the Most Holy Place, a space only the High Priest could enter once a year, and then only with atoning blood. This physical barrier, however, foreshadowed the ultimate spiritual barrier that sin created between humanity and God. In the New Covenant, Jesus Christ becomes the fulfillment of all that the Temple and its doors symbolized. He is the ultimate "door" or "gate" through whom we gain access to the Father ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus is the Door")). His perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection tore the veil of the Temple from top to bottom ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Veil Torn")), signifying that the way into God's immediate presence was now open to all who believe. Christ is our great High Priest who has entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not by means of animal blood, but by His own blood, securing eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11-12 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, Our High Priest")). Thus, the cherubim no longer guard a restricted access, for Christ Himself is the way, the truth, and the life, through whom we can now boldly approach the throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). The beauty and glory of the Temple doors are infinitely surpassed by the glory of Christ, who is the true and living Temple, embodying God's presence among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")).

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 6:18

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

1 Kings 6:29

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.