1 Kings 6:4

KJV

And for the house he made windows of narrow lights.

KJV (with Strong's)

And for the house {H1004} he made {H6213} windows {H2474} of narrow {H331} lights {H8261}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The windows he made for the house were wide on the inside and narrow on the outside.

Berean Standard Bible

He also had narrow windows framed high in the temple.

American Standard Version

And for the house he made windows of fixed lattice-work.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:4 provides a specific architectural detail regarding Solomon's construction of the First Temple, noting that "for the house he made windows of narrow lights." This seemingly minor detail underscores the meticulous divine blueprint and the deliberate design choices for a sacred space, emphasizing an internal, divinely-sourced illumination over external, natural light, thereby shaping an atmosphere conducive to reverence and the manifestation of God's glory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a highly detailed account of the construction of Solomon's Temple, spanning [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple") and [1 Kings 7](/1_kings/7 "1 Kings 7 - Further Temple and Palace Construction"). Following the initial declaration of the Temple's commencement in [1 Kings 6:1](/1_kings/6-1 "1 Kings 6:1 - Beginning of Temple Construction"), the narrative meticulously describes its dimensions, materials, and various architectural features, from its foundations to its roof and surrounding chambers. The inclusion of specific elements like the "windows of narrow lights" highlights the sacredness and precision demanded for God's dwelling place, contrasting with the more general descriptions found elsewhere. This detailed enumeration serves to emphasize the fulfillment of David's vision and God's covenant promises, meticulously brought to fruition by Solomon.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Temple occurred during the zenith of Israel's power and prosperity under King Solomon, roughly in the 10th century BCE. Ancient Near Eastern temples were not merely places of worship but complex structures designed to house the deity, often featuring limited external light to create a sense of mystery and awe. The "windows of narrow lights" (or "splayed windows") were a common architectural feature in both sacred and defensive structures of the era, such as fortresses and palaces, providing structural integrity, security, and controlled light. Unlike modern buildings, which prioritize natural illumination, the Temple's design likely aimed to minimize external distractions and emphasize the internal, cultic light provided by lamps and the anticipated divine presence, aligning with the concept of a holy, set-apart space.

* **Key Themes:** The detail of the "narrow lights" contributes to several key themes within [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Meticulousness of Divine Design and Human Obedience**. Every aspect of the Temple's construction, even seemingly minor architectural features, was prescribed or inspired, reflecting God's demand for precision and Israel's diligent adherence to His will in creating a suitable dwelling. Secondly, it highlights the **Sacredness and Separation of God's Presence**. The limited external light fostered an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence, distinguishing the Temple from ordinary structures and emphasizing its role as a unique sanctuary where God's glory would dwell, as later seen in [1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple"). Finally, it subtly points to the **Symbolism of Light and Divine Illumination**. While natural light was restricted, the Temple was intended to be filled with the glory of God, suggesting that true light emanates from His presence, not from external sources, a theme echoed in passages like [Psalm 36:9](/psalms/36-9 "Psalm 36:9 - God as the Fountain of Life and Light").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **שְׁקֻפִים אֲטֻמִים (Hebrew, _shequphim atumim'_):** This phrase, translated "windows of narrow lights" (KJV) or "splayed windows" (NIV), refers to a specific architectural design. `שְׁקֻפִים` (_shequphim_) denotes "frames" or "openings," often implying a splayed or recessed design where the opening is narrower on the outside and widens towards the interior. `אֲטֻמִים` (_atumim_) means "closed," "sealed," or "fixed," suggesting these windows were not designed to be opened or were perhaps latticed, allowing some light and air but limiting direct visibility and maintaining structural integrity. Together, they describe windows that were intentionally restrictive, allowing a controlled amount of light while preserving the sanctity and security of the interior.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And for the house":** This refers specifically to the main structure of the Temple, the sacred edifice itself, distinguishing it from surrounding courtyards or auxiliary buildings. It underscores that this architectural feature was integral to the primary sanctuary where God's presence was to dwell.
* **"he made windows":** This indicates Solomon's direct involvement and the intentionality behind the design. The Hebrew word implies openings or frames, confirming that these were indeed apertures for light and ventilation, albeit of a particular kind.
* **"of narrow lights":** This is the crucial descriptive element, detailing the specific nature of these windows. As discussed in the key word analysis, this phrase points to windows that were either splayed (narrow outside, wide inside) or fixed and non-operable, designed to restrict the influx of natural light and external visibility, thereby contributing to the solemn and sacred atmosphere of the Temple's interior.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Architectural Detail** as a literary device, meticulously describing a specific feature of the Temple. This precision serves to emphasize the sacredness and divine origin of the Temple's blueprint, suggesting that every element, no matter how small, was significant in creating a dwelling fit for God. The inclusion of such a particular detail also contributes to the overall **Realism** and **Verisimilitude** of the narrative, grounding the theological claims in tangible, historical construction. Furthermore, the "narrow lights" function as a subtle **Symbolism**. By limiting external light, the text implicitly highlights the contrast between natural illumination and the anticipated divine glory that would fill the Temple, suggesting that the true light within God's dwelling emanates from His presence, not from the sun. This detail thus contributes to the overarching theme of God's unique and transcendent presence within the sacred space.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The seemingly simple architectural detail of the "windows of narrow lights" carries profound theological weight. It speaks to God's meticulousness and His desire for a sacred space that is set apart, not merely a functional building. The design, which limited external light, subtly communicates that the true illumination within the Temple would not come from the sun but from the very presence of God, the source of all light and glory. This concept reinforces the idea that God's dwelling is distinct from the mundane world, a place where His holiness is paramount and His glory is manifested internally. It foreshadows a spiritual reality where divine light transcends physical limitations, inviting worshippers to seek an inner, spiritual illumination derived from God Himself.

* [Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle")
* [Psalm 27:1](/psalms/27-1 "Psalm 27:1 - The Lord is My Light and My Salvation")
* [Isaiah 60:19-20](/isaiah/60-19 "Isaiah 60:19-20 - The Lord Will Be Your Everlasting Light")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detail of the "narrow lights" in Solomon's Temple invites us to consider the intentionality with which God designs and desires His dwelling places, both ancient sanctuaries and our contemporary lives. Just as the Temple was not meant to be flooded with external light but illuminated by God's glory, so too our lives as believers are called to reflect an inner light—the light of Christ within us—rather than being solely dependent on the fleeting illuminations of the world. This verse challenges us to cultivate an internal spiritual environment where God's presence is prioritized, where distractions are minimized, and where our focus is on His glory. It reminds us that true spiritual insight and illumination come from Him, even when our circumstances may feel like "narrow lights," offering limited visibility or comfort. Our lives, like the Temple, are to be set apart, designed for His indwelling presence, and illuminated by His truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might our "spiritual architecture" be designed to prioritize God's inner light over external influences?**
* **How can we cultivate an atmosphere of reverence and intentionality in our personal lives and communities, similar to the Temple's design?**
* **What "narrow lights" or challenging circumstances in your life might God be using to draw your focus to His internal, sustaining presence?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of "windows of narrow lights" in the Temple?**

Answer: The "windows of narrow lights" served multiple purposes. Architecturally, they provided structural integrity, especially in a large stone building, and offered security by limiting access and visibility from outside. Theologically, their design was likely intended to create a specific atmosphere within the Temple – one of solemnity, mystery, and reverence. By restricting natural light, the design emphasized the internal illumination provided by lamps and, more significantly, the anticipated glory of God that would fill the sacred space, as described in [1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple"). This design underscored that the Temple's true light was divine, not earthly.

**Did the Temple have other sources of light?**

Answer: Yes, while natural light was limited by the "narrow lights," the Temple's interior, particularly the Holy Place, was illuminated by elaborate lampstands, most notably the golden lampstand (`menorah`) as described in [Exodus 25:31-40](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25:31-40 - Instructions for the Golden Lampstand") for the Tabernacle, which served as a prototype for the Temple. These lamps provided continuous light, symbolizing God's perpetual presence and guidance, and ensuring that the sacred rituals could be performed. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) was likely kept in darkness, except when the High Priest entered, further emphasizing its profound sacredness and the unique nature of God's dwelling there.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "windows of narrow lights" in Solomon's Temple, by limiting external illumination and pointing to an inner, divine light, powerfully foreshadow the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the physical Temple's design restricted natural light, Jesus declares Himself to be the ultimate source of spiritual illumination, proclaiming, "[I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")" and "[I am the light of the world](/john/9-5 "John 9:5 - Jesus, the Light of the World")" (John 9:5). He is the true Temple, the place where God's glory truly dwells among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Unlike the Temple, which relied on man-made lamps and limited apertures, Christ's light is inherent, all-sufficient, and illuminates the hearts of all who believe ([2 Corinthians 4:6](/2_corinthians/4-6 "2 Corinthians 4:6 - God's Light in Our Hearts")). Furthermore, just as the Temple's design emphasized separation and sacredness, Christ's sacrifice establishes a new covenant where believers themselves become "living stones" in a spiritual house ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")), indwelt by the Holy Spirit, the very presence of God. In Him, the restricted light of the old covenant gives way to the full, unhindered radiance of God's truth and grace, revealing that God's ultimate dwelling is not in a building, but in His Son and, through Him, in His people ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Built into a Holy Temple in the Lord")).

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.