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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Kings 6:15–38. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here, I. We have a particular account of the details of the building.
1.The wainscot of the temple. It was of cedar (Kg1 6:15), which was strong and durable, and of a very sweet smell. The wainscot was curiously carved with knops (like eggs or apples) and flowers, no doubt as the fashion then was, Kg1 6:18.
2.The gilding. It was not like ours, washed over, but the whole house, all the inside of the temple (Kg1 6:22), even the floor (Kg1 6:30), he overlaid with gold, and the most holy place with pure gold, Kg1 6:21. Solomon would spare no expense necessary to make it every way sumptuous. Gold was under foot there, as it should be in all the living temples: the abundance of it lessened its worth.
3.The oracle, or speaking-place (for so the word signifies), the holy of holies, so called because thence God spoke to Moses, and perhaps to the high priest, when he consulted with the breast-plate of judgment. In this place the ark of the covenant was to be set, Kg1 6:19. Solomon made every thing new, and more magnificent than it had been, except the ark, which was still the same that Moses made, with its mercy-seat and cherubim; that was the token of God's presence, which is always the same with his people whether they meet in tent or temple, and changes not with their condition.
4.The cherubim. Besides those at the ends of the mercy-seat, which covered the ark,
(1.)Solomon set up two more, very large ones, images of young men (as some think), with wings made of olive-wood, and all overlaid with gold, Kg1 6:23, etc. This most holy place was much larger than that in the tabernacle, and therefore the ark would have seemed lost in it, and the dead wall would have been unsightly, if it had not been thus adorned.
(2.)He carved cherubim upon all the walls of the house, Kg1 6:29. The heathen set up images of their gods and worshipped them; but these were designed to represent the servants and attendants of the God of Israel, the holy angels, not to be themselves worshipped (see thou do it not), but to show how great he is whom we are to worship.
5.The doors. The folding doors that led into the oracle were but a fifth part of the wall (Kg1 6:31), those into the temple were a fourth part (Kg1 6:33); but both were beautified with cherubim engraven on them, Kg1 6:32, Kg1 6:35.
6.The inner court, in which the brazen altar was at which the priests ministered. This was separated from the court where the people were by a low wall, three rows of hewn stone tipped with a cornice of cedar (Kg1 6:36), that over it the people might see what was done and hear what the priests said to them; for, even under that dispensation, they were not kept wholly either in the dark or at a distance.
7.The time spent in this building. It was but seven years and a half from the founding to the finishing of it, Kg1 6:38. Considering the vastness and elegance of the building, and the many appurtenances to it which were necessary to fit it for use, it was soon done. Solomon was in earnest in it, had money enough, had nothing to divert him from it, and many hands made quick work. He finished it (as the margin reads it) with all the appurtenances thereof, and with all the ordinances thereof, not only built the place, but set forward the work for which it was built.
II.Let us now see what was typified by this temple.
1.Christ is the true temple; he himself spoke of the temple of his body, Joh 2:21. God himself prepared him his body, Heb 10:5. In him dwelt the fulness of the Godhead, as the Shechinah in the temple. In him meet all God's spiritual Israel. Through him we have access with confidence to God. All the angels of God, those blessed cherubim, have a charge to worship him.
2.Every believer is a living temple, in whom the Spirit of God dwells, Co1 3:16. Even the body is such by virtue of its union with the soul, Co1 6:19. We are not only wonderfully made by the divine providence, but more wonderfully made anew by the divine grace. This living temple is built upon Christ as its foundation and will be perfected in due time.
3.The gospel church is the mystical temple; it grows to a holy temple in the Lord (Eph 2:21), enriched and beautified with the gifts and graces of the Spirit, as Solomon's temple with gold and precious stones. Only Jews built the tabernacle, but Gentiles joined with them in building the temple. Even strangers and foreigners are built up a habitation of God, Eph 2:19, Eph 2:22. The temple was divided into the holy place and the most holy, the courts of it into the outer and inner; so there are the visible and the invisible church. The door into the temple was wider than that into the oracle. Many enter into profession that come short of salvation. This temple is built firm, upon a rock, not to be taken down as the tabernacle of the Old Testament was. The temple was long in preparing, but was built at last. The top-stone of the gospel church will, at length, be brought forth with shoutings, and it is a pity that there should be the clashing of axes and hammers in the building of it. Angels are ministering spirits, attending the church on all sides and all the members of it.
4.Heaven is the everlasting temple. There the church will be fixed, and no longer movable. The streets of the new Jerusalem, in allusion to the flooring of the temple, are said to be of pure gold, Rev 21:21. The cherubim there always attend the throne of glory. The temple was uniform, and in heaven there is the perfection of beauty and harmony. In Solomon's temple there was no noise of axes and hammers. Every thing is quiet and serene in heaven; all that shall be stones in that building must in the present sate of probation and preparation be fitted and made ready for it, must be hewn and squared by divine grace, and so made meet for a place there.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
Now all these items, that is, cherubim and palm trees and carvings in the adornment of the temple walls, have been set forth and explained above according to our ability. There is no need to go to the trouble of adding anything further. For the works of virtue that the church performs throughout the world in its holy and perfect members should be pursued with all diligence by those especially to whom the care of the faithful has been committed and the keys of the kingdom of heaven granted, so that to the extent that they rank higher than the rest, they should also excel them in merit of good actions. For they have the image of the cherubim engraved on them when they imitate, both in thought and action, the life of angels on earth insofar as mortals can. They resemble palm trees when they keep their minds ever steadfastly intent on the gifts of their heavenly reward. For it is with the palm that the hand of a victor is adorned. They have carvings in bold relief when they show to all who observe them the clearest proofs of good works, proofs that no one can misconstrue. And all these works are covered with sheets of gold when, as has often been said and must always be said, the brightness of love outshines the rest of the flowers of virtue, especially in the eminent members of the church.
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Summary
1 Kings 6:32 offers a meticulous description of the two doors leading from the Holy Place into the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies) within Solomon's Temple. Crafted from the esteemed olive wood and lavishly adorned with pure gold, these doors featured intricate carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. This detailed account underscores the extraordinary sanctity, divine beauty, and profound theological symbolism inherent in God's dwelling place, highlighting the unparalleled dedication and precious materials consecrated for the Lord's sanctuary, thereby emphasizing the holiness and glory of the innermost sacred space.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the extensive and highly detailed narrative of the construction of Solomon's Temple, primarily found in 1 Kings 5 through 1 Kings 8. Specifically, 1 Kings 6 focuses on the architectural and decorative elements of the Temple itself. Following the general dimensions and materials of the main sanctuary (the Holy Place) described in 1 Kings 6:14-21, verse 32 precisely details the "doors of the oracle," which served as the entrance to the Most Holy Place, the innermost sanctuary designed to house the Ark of the Covenant. This meticulous focus on the doors, along with the detailed description of the inner sanctuary's cedar walls and gold overlay in 1 Kings 6:16-22, reinforces the continuity of precious materials and sacred design throughout the most hallowed parts of the Temple. The exhaustive detail underscores the divine blueprint and the profound reverence with which this sacred space was constructed, emphasizing its unique status as God's earthly dwelling.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of the First Temple during the reign of King Solomon (circa 960 BCE) represented a pinnacle of Israel's national and spiritual identity, marking a significant transition from the portable Tabernacle to a permanent, magnificent edifice in Jerusalem. This established Jerusalem as the undisputed religious and political capital. Olive wood, a durable, beautiful, and readily available timber in ancient Israel, was highly valued for its strength, longevity, and resistance to decay, making it an ideal choice for such crucial architectural elements. The extensive use of gold for overlay was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern temples, signifying immense wealth, divine presence, and purity. The elaborate carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers were not merely aesthetic but deeply symbolic, drawing from established iconographic traditions prevalent in the region. These motifs communicated profound theological truths about God's presence, protection, and the flourishing life found in His sanctuary. The sheer scale and opulence of the Temple reflected Solomon's vast resources and Israel's unwavering commitment to honoring the Lord with the very best.
Key Themes
The detailed description in 1 Kings 6:32 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully emphasizes the holiness and transcendence of God, as evidenced by the meticulous design, the precious materials, and the sacred iconography 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 divine directives for the Tabernacle's construction in Exodus 25 and subsequent chapters. Thirdly, the rich 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 when they walk in His ways. Finally, the lavish use of gold consistently underscores the glory and majesty of God, demonstrating that only the finest and most valuable materials were deemed worthy for the sanctuary of the Lord, a theme consistently found in descriptions of sacred spaces throughout the Old Testament, from the Tabernacle in Exodus 26 to Ezekiel's visionary temple in Ezekiel 41.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning "something swinging, i.e. the valve of a door." The term deleth refers to the movable panels that form an entrance. In the context of the Temple, these deleth were not merely functional entryways but significant architectural and symbolic barriers. Their placement at the entrance to the Most Holy Place underscores the restricted access to God's immediate presence, emphasizing His holiness and the separation between the divine and the human, a separation that necessitated specific ritual and purity for approach.
Referring to "a cherub or imaginary figure." The kᵉrûwbim are celestial beings, often depicted with wings, who serve as guardians of sacred spaces and attendants to God's throne. Their presence on the Temple doors is highly significant, echoing their role in guarding the Garden of Eden and their depiction on the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). Their inclusion on these doors reinforced the profound holiness of the inner sanctuary, signifying God's protective presence and the sacred, restricted access to His immediate glory.
A primitive root meaning "to sheet over (especially with metal)." The verb tsâphâh emphasizes the complete covering of the olive wood doors and their intricate carvings with pure gold. This act of overlaying transforms the material, elevating its value and appearance from mere wood to a gleaming, sacred surface. In biblical contexts, gold consistently symbolizes purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value. The act of tsâphâh signifies that the items are consecrated for divine use, reflecting God's glory and the sacredness of His presence, suggesting 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 precisely identifies the material chosen for the two doors that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. The use of "also" links these doors to the previously described elements of the Temple, emphasizing the deliberate choice of material. Olive wood was not only durable and beautiful but also held symbolic significance in ancient Israel, representing peace, anointing, and enduring strength, making it a fitting choice for the entrance to the Lord's most sacred dwelling.
"and he carved upon them carvings of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers,"
This part details the intricate decorative elements meticulously crafted onto the olive wood doors. The "carvings" (Hebrew: miqlaʻath) indicate skilled, three-dimensional artistry. The combination of cherubim (celestial guardians), palm trees (symbols of righteousness, victory, and flourishing), and "open flowers" (Hebrew: pâṭar tsîyts, representing life, beauty, and growth) creates a rich tapestry of theological meaning. These motifs transformed the doors into a visual narrative, reflecting the nature of the God who dwells within and the blessings associated with His presence and the flourishing life found in His sanctuary.
"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, emphasizing that the gold was applied not only to the doors themselves but specifically "spread" (Hebrew: râdad) over the carved cherubim and palm trees. This repetition and explicit mention of 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 with an awe-inspiring radiance, reflecting light and creating a majestic entrance to the very presence of God, signifying His supreme worth and majesty.
Literary Devices
1 Kings 6:32 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound meaning and impact. Symbolism is paramount, with each carved element carrying deep 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's creation. The choice of olive wood itself symbolizes peace, anointing, and enduring strength, reflecting the stability and blessing associated with God's covenant. Furthermore, the gold overlay is a powerful symbol of purity, divinity, royalty, and the immeasurable glory of God, transforming the physical into a representation of the divine. Repetition is 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 employs 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 under the Old Covenant. These doors, leading to the Holy of Holies, represented the ultimate barrier to God's immediate presence, emphasizing His profound holiness, transcendent glory, and the need for atonement. Only the High Priest, once a year on the Day of Atonement, could pass through them, and only with the blood of sacrifice. 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 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 through Christ.
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, and the Church is being built into a spiritual house with Christ as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20-22). 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. We are called to live lives that reflect the holiness and glory of the God who dwells within us, offering our "finest materials"—our gifts, time, and resources—as acts of worship and service.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were the doors to the Most Holy Place made of olive wood and then overlaid with gold?
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 for generations. 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 intricate 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, reflecting His supreme worth.
What is the significance of the cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers carved on the doors?
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 and their depiction on the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22), 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). Open flowers represented beauty, vitality, 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). His perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection tore the veil of the Temple from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51), 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). 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). 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) and through whom we are made part of a spiritual house built on Him (1 Peter 2:5).