TRV
Translation
King James Version
And against the wall of the house he built chambers round about, against the walls of the house round about, both of the temple and of the oracle: and he made chambers round about:
Complete Jewish Bible
Against the wall of the house he built an annex all the way around; it went all the way around the walls of the house, including both the temple and the sanctuary.
Berean Standard Bible
Against the walls of the temple and the inner sanctuary, Solomon built a chambered structure around the temple, in which he constructed the side rooms.
American Standard Version
And against the wall of the house he built stories round about, against the walls of the house round about, both of the temple and of the oracle; and he made side-chambers round about.
World English Bible Messianic
Against the wall of the house he built stories all around, against the walls of the house all around, both of the temple and of the oracle; and he made side rooms all around.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And by the wall of the house hee made galleries round about, euen by the walles of the house round about the Temple and the oracle, and made chambers round about.
Young's Literal Translation
And he buildeth against the wall of the house a couch round about, even the walls of the house round about, of the temple and of the oracle, and maketh sides round about.
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In the KJVVerse 8,902 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Kings 6 verses 1–10
1 ¶ And it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month Zif, which is the second month, that he began to build the house of the LORD.
2 And the house which king Solomon built for the LORD, the length thereof was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof twenty cubits, and the height thereof thirty cubits.
3 And the porch before the temple of the house, twenty cubits was the length thereof, according to the breadth of the house; and ten cubits was the breadth thereof before the house.
4 And for the house he made windows of narrow lights.
5 And against the wall of the house he built chambers round about, against the walls of the house round about, both of the temple and of the oracle: and he made chambers round about:
6 The nethermost chamber was five cubits broad, and the middle was six cubits broad, and the third was seven cubits broad: for without in the wall of the house he made narrowed rests round about, that the beams should not be fastened in the walls of the house.
7 And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building.
8 The door for the middle chamber was in the right side of the house: and they went up with winding stairs into the middle chamber, and out of the middle into the third.
9 So he built the house, and finished it; and covered the house with beams and boards of cedar.
10 And then he built chambers against all the house, five cubits high: and they rested on the house with timber of cedar.
Here, I. The temple is called the house of the Lord (Kg1 6:1), because it was, 1. Directed and modelled by him. Infinite Wisdom was the architect, and gave David the plan or pattern by the Spirit, not by word of mouth only, but, for the greater certainty and exactness, in writing (Ch1 28:11, Ch1 28:12), as he had given to Moses in the mouth a draught of the tabernacle. 2. Dedicated and devoted to him and to his honour, to be employed in his service, so his as never any other house was, for he manifested his glory in it (so as never in any other) in a way agreeable to that dispensation; for, when there were carnal ordinances, there was a worldly sanctuary, Heb 9:1, Heb 9:10. This gave it its beauty of holiness, that it was the house of the Lord, which far transcended all its other beauties.
II. The time when it began to be built is exactly set down. 1. It was just 480 years after the bringing of the children of Israel out of Egypt. Allowing forty years to Moses, seventeen to Joshua, 299 to the Judges, forty to Eli, forty to Samuel and Saul, forty to David, and four to Solomon before he began the work, we have just the sum of 480. So long it was after that holy state was founded before that holy house was built, which, in less than 430 years, was burnt by Nebuchadnezzar. It was thus deferred because Israel had, by their sins, rendered themselves unworthy of this honour, and because God would show how little he values external pomp and splendour in his service: he was in no haste for a temple. David's tent, which was clean and convenient, though it was neither stately nor rich, nor, for aught that appears, ever consecrated, is called the house of the Lord (Sa2 12:20), and served as well as Solomon's temple; yet, when God gave Solomon great wealth, he put it into his heart thus to employ it, and graciously accepted him, chiefly because it was to be a shadow of good things to come, Heb 9:9. 2. It was in the fourth year of Solomon's reign, the first three years being taken up in settling the affairs of his kingdom, that he might not find any embarrassment from them in this work. It is not time lost which is spent in composing ourselves for the work of God, and disentangling ourselves from every thing which might distract or divert us. During this time he was adding to the preparations which his father had made (Ch1 22:14), hewing the stone, squaring the timber, and getting every thing ready, so that he is not to be blamed for slackness in deferring it so long. We are truly serving God when we are preparing for his service and furnishing ourselves for it.
III. The materials are brought in, ready for their place (Kg1 6:7), so ready that there was neither hammer nor ax heard in the house while it was in building. In all building Solomon prescribes it as a rule of prudence to prepare the work in the field, and afterwards build, Pro 24:27. But here, it seems, the preparation was more than ordinarily full and exact, to such a degree that, when the several parts came to be put together, there was nothing defective to be added, nothing amiss to be amended. It was to be the temple of God of peace, and therefore no iron tool must be heard in it. Quietness and silence both become and befriend religious exercises: God's work should be done with as much care and as little noise as may be. The temple was thrown down with axes and hammers, and those that threw it down roared in the midst of the congregation (Psa 74:4, Psa 74:6); but it was built up in silence. Clamour and violence often hinder the work of God, but never further it.
IV. The dimensions are laid down (Kg1 6:2, Kg1 6:3) according to the rules of proportion. Some observe that the length and breadth were just double to that of the tabernacle. Now that Israel had grown more numerous the place of their meeting needed to be enlarged (Isa 54:1, Isa 54:2), and now that they had grown richer they were the better able to enlarge it. Where God sows plentifully he expects to reap so.
V. An account of the windows (Kg1 6:4): They were broad within, and narrow without, Marg. Such should the eyes of our mind be, reflecting nearer on ourselves than on other people, looking much within, to judge ourselves, but little without, to censure our brethren. The narrowness of the lights intimated the darkness of that dispensation, in comparison with the gospel day.
VI. The chambers are described (Kg1 6:5, Kg1 6:6), which served as vestries, in which the utensils of the tabernacle were carefully laid up, and where the priests dressed and undressed themselves and left the clothes in which they ministered: probably in some of these chambers they feasted upon the holy things. Solomon was not so intent upon the magnificence of the house as to neglect the conveniences that were requisite for the offices thereof, that every thing might be done decently and in order. Care was taken that the beams should not be fastened in the walls to weaken them, Kg1 6:6. Let not the church's strength be impaired under pretence of adding to its beauty or convenience.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–10. Public domain.
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Ishodad of MervAD 850
BOOKS OF SESSIONS 1 KINGS 6:5
Against the sides of the house he made side chambers, that is, some porticos like those built around a basilica, one on the other, in three levels. He did this, in the first place, because the portico was narrow and could not been divided into separate parts; secondly, in order that they might work as a support to the house so that it did not collapse.
Richard ChallonerAD 1781
He built floors round about: Chambers or cells adjoining to the temple, for the use of the temple and of the priests, so contrived as to be between the inward and outward wall of the temple, in three stories, one above another.-- Ibid.
Richard ChallonerAD 1781
The oracle: The inner temple or holy of holies, where God gave his oracles.
Richard ChallonerAD 1781
Upon the wall: i. e. joining to the wall.-- Ibid.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
First Kings 6:5 provides a meticulous architectural detail of Solomon's Temple, describing the construction of ancillary chambers that were built around the exterior walls of the main sanctuary. These side rooms encircled both the Holy Place (referred to as the "temple") and the Most Holy Place (the "oracle"), underscoring the comprehensive planning and functional design integral to God's dwelling place. This verse highlights the extensive nature of the Temple complex, which incorporated practical spaces crucial for the daily operations, maintenance, and support of the sacred structure, reflecting a divine blueprint for order and provision in worship.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device prominently employed in 1 Kings 6:5 is Repetition, specifically of the phrase "round about" (סָבִיב, saviv). This repetition is not redundant but serves a crucial rhetorical and descriptive purpose: it emphatically underscores the comprehensive and encircling nature of the chambers built against the Temple walls. It visually and textually reinforces the idea that these functional rooms completely enveloped the sacred core, from the Holy Place to the Most Holy Place, conveying a sense of thoroughness and protective enclosure. This meticulous detail is also a form of Architectural Description, characteristic of the entire chapter, which provides precise measurements and structural elements. This device highlights the divine blueprint and the profound human effort invested in constructing God's dwelling place. Furthermore, the mention of "the temple and of the oracle" can be interpreted as a form of Merism, where two distinct or contrasting parts are named to represent the whole. By naming both the outer sanctuary and the innermost shrine, the text effectively signifies the entirety of the sacred interior, emphasizing that the entire holy structure was supported by these surrounding chambers.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The detailed description of the Temple's ancillary chambers in 1 Kings 6:5 offers profound insights into God's character and His relationship with His people. It reveals a God who values order, functionality, and meticulous preparation in worship and service. The existence of these chambers, designed for storage, administration, and support, underscores the principle that sacred spaces and divine service are not haphazard but require thoughtful provision and organization. This divine attention to detail in the physical structure of the Temple reflects the spiritual truth that God desires a well-ordered and well-resourced ministry, where every component, from the most sacred rites to the most practical logistical support, contributes to the overall purpose of glorifying Him and facilitating communion with His people. It teaches us that even the seemingly mundane or "behind-the-scenes" aspects of spiritual life and community are vital for the flourishing of God's work and the manifestation of His presence.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of the Temple's construction, including its functional chambers, invite us to reflect deeply on the intentionality with which God designs and sustains His presence among His people. While we no longer worship in a physical Temple, the enduring principles of order, provision, and purpose remain profoundly relevant for our personal spiritual lives and corporate worship. Just as the chambers supported the sacred work of the priests and the maintenance of the holy space, our personal disciplines, practical preparations, and supportive ministries within the church are vital for facilitating genuine worship and effective outreach. This verse challenges us to consider how we, as individuals and as a community, can contribute to creating environments—both physical and spiritual—that are conducive to encountering God. It encourages us to ensure that our "chambers" (our resources, time, talents, practical efforts, and even our unseen acts of service) are intentionally built "round about" the core mission of glorifying God and serving others. We are called to be diligent in the unseen, supportive roles that enable the visible work of God to thrive, recognizing that every detail, no matter how small, matters in His divine economy.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What were the primary uses of these "chambers round about" the Temple?
Answer: The "chambers round about" the Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6:5, served various practical and administrative purposes essential for the daily operation and maintenance of the sacred complex. While the biblical text does not provide an exhaustive list specifically for Solomon's Temple, based on parallels with the Tabernacle, later Temple descriptions (e.g., Ezekiel's vision), and historical accounts, these rooms were likely used for:
These chambers ensured that the Temple functioned as a well-ordered, self-sufficient, and highly organized institution, supporting the central acts of worship, sacrifice, and the ongoing spiritual life of the nation.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Kings 6:5 meticulously describes the physical structure of Solomon's Temple, its ultimate theological fulfillment is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The earthly Temple, with its Holy Place and Most Holy Place, served as a profound shadow and type of God's true dwelling among humanity. Jesus Himself declared that something "greater than the temple" was present in Him (Matthew 12:6), and He famously spoke of His own body as the temple that would be destroyed and raised in three days (John 2:19-21). In Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a building with surrounding chambers, but dwells fully and bodily in a person (Colossians 2:9). Through His perfect sacrifice, Jesus, our great High Priest, opened the way into the true Most Holy Place—the very presence of God in heaven—making access available to all believers (Hebrews 10:19-20). Moreover, the New Testament reveals that believers, united with Christ, become living stones built into a spiritual house, a "holy temple in the Lord" (Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Peter 2:5). Just as the physical chambers supported the ancient Temple's operations, the diverse gifts, ministries, and supportive roles within the body of Christ (the spiritual temple) serve to build up and equip the whole, ensuring that the dwelling place of God continues to function dynamically in the world, making His presence, glory, and redemptive purpose known to all.