TRV
Translation
King James Version
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.
KJV (with Strong's)
The nethermost H8481 chamber H3326 H3326 was five H2568 cubits H520 broad H7341, and the middle H8484 was six H8337 cubits H520 broad H7341, and the third H7992 was seven H7651 cubits H520 broad H7341: for without in the wall of H2351 the house H1004 he made H5414 narrowed rests H4052 round about H5439, that the beams should not be fastened H270 in the walls H7023 of the house H1004.
Complete Jewish Bible
The lowest floor of the annex was eight-and-three-quarters feet wide, the middle floor ten-and-a-half feet wide and the third floor twelve-and-a-quarter feet wide; for he had made the outer part of the wall of the house step-shaped, so that the beams of the annex would not have to be attached to the house walls.
Berean Standard Bible
The bottom floor was five cubits wide, the middle floor six cubits, and the third floor seven cubits. He also placed offset ledges around the outside of the temple, so that nothing would be inserted into its walls.
American Standard Version
The nethermost story was five cubits broad, and the middle was six cubits broad, and the third was seven cubits broad; for on the outside he made offsets in the wall of the house round about, that the beams should not have hold in the walls of the house.
World English Bible Messianic
The nethermost story was five cubits broad, and the middle was six cubits broad, and the third was seven cubits broad; for on the outside he made offsets in the wall of the house all around, that the beams should not have hold in the walls of the house.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The nethermost gallerie was fiue cubites broade, and the middlemost sixe cubites broade, and the third seuen cubites broade: for he made restes round about without the house, that the beames should not be fastened in the walles of the house.
Young's Literal Translation
The lowest couch, five by the cubit is its breadth; and the middle, six by the cubit is its breadth; and the third, seven by the cubit is its breadth, for withdrawings he hath put to the house round about, without--not to lay hold on the walls of the house.
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In the KJVVerse 8,903 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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BedeAD 735
Of the Temple of Solomon 1.7.2
In the Gospel where the Lord is tempted by the devil these floors are called the pinnacles of the temple. But we also read that the apostle James, the brother of the Lord, was lifted to the pinnacle of the temple from which to address the people. Whether it was the practice of teachers to deliver their address to the people standing around below them while they sat on these floors is something we find nowhere in the Scriptures. So what the mystery obviously means is that these three floors denote the corresponding number of levels of the faithful, namely, married people, those who practice continence and virgins, levels distinguished according to the loftiness of their profession but all of them belonging to the house of the Lord and intently clinging to him by reason of their fellowship in the same faith and truth.
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
1 Kings 6:6 meticulously details the ingenious architectural design of Solomon's Temple, specifically outlining the varying dimensions of the three levels of side chambers built around the main sanctuary. This verse highlights a sophisticated construction method: the floor beams supporting these chambers were not directly embedded or fastened into the sacred walls of the Temple itself. Instead, Solomon's builders created "narrowed rests" or ledges on the exterior of the main wall, providing secure support for the side structures while meticulously preserving the inviolable sanctity and structural integrity of God's dwelling place. This precision underscores the divine importance, reverence, and theological significance accorded to the Temple's construction.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is situated within a highly detailed and extensive architectural account of Solomon's Temple construction, primarily found in 1 Kings 6 and 1 Kings 7. Chapter 6 commences with the precise timing and initiation of the work (1 Kings 6:1), followed by the overall dimensions of the main structure (1 Kings 6:2-3). The narrative then elaborates on specific features such as the windows (1 Kings 6:4) and the side chambers (1 Kings 6:5) immediately preceding our verse. The subsequent verse, 1 Kings 6:7, further emphasizes the profound reverence for the Temple by noting that no iron tools were heard during its construction, a principle deeply connected to the non-penetration rule described in 1 Kings 6:6. The meticulous detail throughout these chapters serves to underscore the divine blueprint and the sacred nature of this monumental undertaking, reflecting God's own order, perfection, and holiness.
Historical & Cultural Context: Solomon's Temple was constructed in Jerusalem during his reign (c. 970-931 BC), a period marking the zenith of Israelite power, prosperity, and international influence. In the ancient Near East, temples were considered the literal dwelling places of deities, and their construction represented a major royal undertaking, symbolizing the king's piety and the nation's strength and devotion. Unlike surrounding pagan cultures, the Israelite Temple was uniquely dedicated to Yahweh, the one true God, and its design was understood to be divinely revealed, echoing the precise instructions given for the Tabernacle in Exodus 25. The use of the "cubit" (Hebrew: ammah, H520), a standard ancient measurement approximately 18-21 inches (45-53 cm), highlights the expected precision in sacred architecture. The concept of "sacred space" was paramount; the Temple was not merely a building but a consecrated area where heaven and earth met, demanding specific design choices, such as those described in 1 Kings 6:6, to preserve its holiness and distinctiveness from ordinary structures.
Key Themes: The detailed account of the Temple's construction, particularly the specifics in 1 Kings 6:6, contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes Divine Presence and Dwelling, as the Temple was designed as the permanent earthly abode for God's name and presence among His people, a theme introduced in Exodus 25:8. Secondly, the meticulous specifications highlight Obedience and Meticulousness in Worship, demonstrating that God values precision and excellence in all undertakings dedicated to His glory, reflecting His own perfect character. This is further seen in the silent construction noted in 1 Kings 6:7. Thirdly, the construction showcases Divine Wisdom and Human Skill, as Solomon, empowered by God's wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12), oversaw a project of immense complexity and beauty, requiring the expertise of master craftsmen. Finally, the Temple serves as a profound symbol of Sacred Space and Separation, where every design choice, including the method of supporting the side chambers, underscored the unique holiness and set-apart nature of God's sanctuary, distinct from common structures.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Kings 6:6, and indeed throughout the detailed architectural descriptions of the Temple, is Precision. The meticulous enumeration of dimensions and construction methods is not merely technical reporting; it serves a profound theological purpose. This Precision conveys God's demand for excellence, order, and exact adherence to His revealed will in all things related to His worship and presence. Furthermore, the explanation of why the beams were not fastened in the walls introduces a subtle but powerful element of Symbolism. The unblemished, unpenetrated walls symbolize the inviolable holiness and purity of God Himself, and the sacred space dedicated to Him. The very structure of the Temple, down to its foundational elements, speaks volumes about the reverence and set-apartness due to the divine presence.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The architectural details of 1 Kings 6:6, particularly the method of supporting the side chambers without penetrating the main Temple walls, carry significant theological weight. This design choice underscores the profound reverence for the sanctity of God's dwelling place. It illustrates a principle of separation and purity: the core structure dedicated to God's presence must remain undefiled and distinct. This meticulousness reflects God's own character of order, perfection, and holiness, demonstrating that He deserves the utmost care and excellence in all that pertains to His worship. It teaches that even in practical matters of construction and design, spiritual principles of devotion and respect for the sacred should guide our actions, ensuring that God's glory is upheld in every detail.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Solomon's Temple, down to how its side chambers were supported, offer enduring principles for believers today. Just as God demanded perfection and purity in the physical dwelling place of His presence, He calls us to excellence and integrity in our spiritual lives and in the "building" of His church. The Temple's unmarred walls remind us that our hearts, now temples of the Holy Spirit, should be kept pure and undefiled, set apart for God's purposes. This passage challenges us to consider the meticulousness with which we approach our faith, our service, and our relationships within the body of Christ. Are we building with the same care and reverence that Solomon applied to the physical Temple? Do we honor the sacredness of God's presence within us and among us, striving for integrity that does not "mar" His work? The divine wisdom evident in the Temple's design also assures us that God provides the wisdom and resources necessary for every task He calls us to, encouraging us to seek His guidance in all our endeavors, just as Solomon did. This principle extends to how we support one another in the church: we are to provide support and strength without compromising the spiritual integrity or unique calling of individuals, respecting the sacred space of each person's walk with God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did the side chambers increase in width as they ascended?
Answer: The text states the nethermost chamber was five cubits broad, the middle six, and the third seven. This stepped design, where each successive level was wider than the one below it, likely served multiple purposes. Architecturally, it provided a wider base at the bottom for stability and allowed for a larger footprint on the upper levels, potentially for increased storage or access to the Temple's upper areas. Theologically, this progressive expansion could symbolize the increasing glory or accessibility of God's presence as one ascended towards the Holy of Holies, or simply reflect the meticulous and ordered nature of God's design, where every detail had a purpose. Crucially, it created the necessary ledges on the exterior of the main Temple wall, which were then used as the "narrowed rests" to support the beams, as explicitly explained in 1 Kings 6:6.
What was the significance of not fastening the beams into the walls of the house?
Answer: This was a critical design choice rooted in profound reverence for the Temple's sanctity. The main walls of the Temple were considered holy and inviolable, representing the very dwelling place of God's presence. Penetrating these walls with beams or fasteners would have been seen as defiling or "marring" the sacred structure. This principle is consistent with other commands, such as not using iron tools on the altar stones (Exodus 20:25) or during the Temple's construction itself (1 Kings 6:7), where no hammer, axe, or any iron tool was heard. It emphasized the set-apart nature of the Temple, signifying that God's dwelling place was pure, complete, and not to be altered or compromised by human intervention, but rather built according to His precise, divine blueprint.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous design and construction of Solomon's Temple, particularly the principle of preserving the sanctity and inviolability of its walls, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Temple, with its various chambers, courts, and the Holy of Holies, served as a profound shadow and type of a greater, spiritual reality. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" (John 2:19), speaking of the "temple of his body" (John 2:21). Christ is the true and perfect Temple, the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity (John 1:14), in whom "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Just as the Temple's walls were to remain unmarred and unpenetrated, Christ's body, offered as the perfect, spotless sacrifice, was without blemish or sin (Hebrews 9:14), fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system. Furthermore, through Christ, believers are now incorporated into this divine edifice, becoming "a dwelling place for God by the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:22). We are living stones built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5), and our individual bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). The reverence and purity demanded for the physical Temple in 1 Kings 6:6 now apply to the spiritual reality of Christ and His church, calling us to live lives that honor the indwelling presence of God, unmarred by sin, and built with divine wisdom for His glory. Ultimately, in the new heavens and new earth, there will be no need for a physical temple, "for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb" (Revelation 21:22), perfectly fulfilling the promise of God's unmediated presence among His people forever.