1 Kings 6:36

And he built the inner court with three rows of hewed stone, and a row of cedar beams.

And he built {H1129} the inner {H6442} court {H2691} with three {H7969} rows {H2905} of hewed stone {H1496}, and a row {H2905} of cedar {H730} beams {H3773}.

He built the inner courtyard with three rows of cut stone and a row of cedar beams.

Solomon built the inner courtyard with three rows of dressed stone and one row of trimmed cedar beams.

And he built the inner court with three courses of hewn stone, and a course of cedar beams.

Commentary

1 Kings 6:36 offers a concise yet significant detail about the construction of King Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. This verse describes the materials and design of the Temple's sacred inner court, an area of profound importance in Israelite worship.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed architectural blueprint for the First Temple, following descriptions of the main sanctuary and preceding the completion of the entire complex. The "inner court" (also known as the "priests' court") was the immediate enclosure surrounding the Temple building itself. It was distinct from the "great court" or "outer court" mentioned in 1 Kings 7:12, which was accessible to all Israelites. The inner court was reserved for the priests who performed the daily sacrificial rituals and sacred duties, emphasizing its holiness and restricted access.

Key Themes

  • Divine Blueprint and Precision: The meticulous description of the inner court's construction highlights the divine importance of the Temple. Every detail, from the number of rows of stone to the use of cedar, points to a carefully planned and executed project befitting God's dwelling place. This echoes the precision commanded for the tabernacle in Exodus 25:9.
  • Quality and Excellence: The use of "hewed stone" (carefully cut and shaped) and "cedar beams" (a highly prized and durable wood, often associated with luxury and permanence) underscores the commitment to excellence in building for the Lord. Solomon spared no expense in creating a structure worthy of God's presence.
  • Holiness and Separation: The distinct construction of the inner court, differentiating it from other areas, visually reinforced its sacred purpose. It marked a boundary of holiness, signifying that this space was set apart for communion with God and priestly service.

Linguistic Insights

The term "hewed stone" implies stones that were not merely rough-cut but meticulously shaped and fitted, indicating superior craftsmanship. "Cedar beams" refers to the highly esteemed wood from the cedars of Lebanon (Hebrew: 'erez), renowned for its beauty, fragrance, and resistance to decay, making it an ideal, long-lasting material for such a significant structure.

Practical Application

While we no longer have a physical temple in Jerusalem, the principles behind its construction remain relevant. The dedication, precision, and excellence shown in building God's house serve as a powerful metaphor for how we should approach our spiritual lives, our worship, and our service today. Just as Solomon dedicated the finest materials and craftsmanship to the Temple, we are called to offer our best to God in our time, talents, and resources. Our lives, as temples of the Holy Spirit, should reflect a similar commitment to holiness, excellence, and separation for God's purposes.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 7:12

    And the great court round about [was] with three rows of hewed stones, and a row of cedar beams, both for the inner court of the house of the LORD, and for the porch of the house.

  • Revelation 11:2

    But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty [and] two months.

  • Exodus 38:9

    ¶ And he made the court: on the south side southward the hangings of the court [were of] fine twined linen, an hundred cubits:

  • Exodus 38:20

    And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, [were of] brass.

  • 2 Chronicles 7:7

    Moreover Solomon hallowed the middle of the court that [was] before the house of the LORD: for there he offered burnt offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings, because the brasen altar which Solomon had made was not able to receive the burnt offerings, and the meat offerings, and the fat.

  • Exodus 27:9

    ¶ And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward [there shall be] hangings for the court [of] fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

  • Exodus 27:19

    All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, [shall be of] brass.
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