1 Kings 6:8

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

The door {H6607} for the middle {H8484} chamber {H6763} was in the right {H3233} side {H3802} of the house {H1004}: and they went up {H5927} with winding stairs {H3883} into the middle {H8484} chamber, and out of the middle {H8484} into the third {H7992}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The entrance to the lowest floor was on the south side of the house; a spiral staircase went up to the middle floor and on to the third.

Berean Standard Bible

The entrance to the bottom floor was on the south side of the temple. A stairway led up to the middle level, and from there to the third floor.

American Standard Version

The door for the middle side-chambers was in the right side of the house: and they went up by winding stairs into the middle story, and out of the middle into the third.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 6:8 offers a precise architectural detail of Solomon's Temple, focusing on the access system for its surrounding side chambers. It meticulously describes how the entrance to these multi-storied annexes was located on the right (south) side of the main structure, and that access to the upper levels—specifically the middle and third chambers—was achieved via an ingeniously designed winding staircase. This verse, therefore, highlights the extraordinary precision, functional complexity, and thoughtful planning inherent in the construction of God's sacred dwelling place, emphasizing that even auxiliary spaces were crafted with purpose and order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the highly detailed and extensive account of the construction of Solomon's Temple, which commences in [1 Kings 6:1](/1_kings/6-1 "1 Kings 6:1 - Beginning of Temple Construction"). The preceding verses establish the Temple's foundational dimensions and the precious materials employed, setting the stage for an almost blueprint-like description. Following [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs"), the narrative continues to elaborate on other structural elements, such as the Temple's roof and the inner sanctuary, as seen in [1 Kings 6:9-10](/1_kings/6-9-10 "1 Kings 6:9-10 - Temple Roof and Cedar Chambers"). The entire chapter, [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Solomon Builds the Temple"), is characterized by an almost obsessive focus on architectural specifics, reflecting the divine blueprint and the immense theological significance of the Temple as the central locus of worship and the tangible presence of God among His people. Verse 8, with its precise description of the side chambers and their unique access, contributes to this comprehensive architectural portrayal, ensuring that every detail of this sacred space is meticulously recorded.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Temple by King Solomon, circa 960 BCE, marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history, signifying the establishment of a permanent, centralized site for the worship of Yahweh, a significant transition from the portable Tabernacle. Architecturally, Solomon's Temple shared general features with other prominent ancient Near Eastern temples, which often included a main sanctuary, a holy of holies, and surrounding chambers dedicated to storage, priestly functions, or administrative purposes. The specific mention of "winding stairs" (Hebrew: _lûwl_) points to a relatively sophisticated architectural feature for the period, indicating advanced engineering and craftsmanship. The "right side of the house" most likely refers to the south side of the Temple, given the typical orientation of ancient temples with their main entrance facing east. The implied three stories of chambers ("middle" and "third") provided essential practical space for the daily operations, maintenance, and storage of sacred vessels, priestly garments, and offerings, underscoring the Temple's role as a fully functional and self-sustaining religious complex.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous architectural detail presented in [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs") serves to underscore several profound theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "The Book of 1 Kings"):
* **Divine Precision and Order:** The exacting specifications for the Temple's construction, from its overall dimensions outlined in [1 Kings 6:2-3](/1_kings/6-2-3 "1 Kings 6:2-3 - Temple Dimensions") to the precise placement of doors and the design of access points, emphasize God's inherent nature as a God of order, excellence, and holiness. Every element was purposeful and meticulously planned, reflecting a divine standard for His dwelling place and for the worship rendered to Him.
* **Sacred Space and Hierarchy:** The description of distinct chambers and the progressive access system via winding stairs highlight the hierarchical and sacred nature of the Temple. Not all areas were equally accessible, signifying varying degrees of holiness and the specific roles designated for priests and Levites. This design echoes the Tabernacle's structure, where access to the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies was strictly regulated, as detailed in [Exodus 26](/exodus/26 "Exodus 26 - The Tabernacle Design").
* **Holiness and Practicality:** While the Temple's overarching purpose was sacred, these side chambers reveal the essential practical considerations required for its operation and maintenance. They were crucial for daily functions, storage, and the long-term preservation of holy articles, demonstrating that practicality and reverence were not mutually exclusive but harmoniously integrated within the divine service. This balance is also evident in the detailed instructions for priestly vestments in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"), which were both sacred and functional.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Door (Hebrew, _pethach'_):** This term (H6607) refers to an "opening," "gate," or "entrance way." In this context, it specifically denotes the point of entry into the multi-storied side chambers of the Temple. The precise mention of its location ("in the right side of the house") underscores the deliberate and ordered design of the entire complex, ensuring controlled and specific access to these auxiliary spaces.
* **Winding stairs (Hebrew, _lûwl'_):** This unique architectural term (H3883) describes a "spiral step" or "winding stair." The use of such a staircase indicates a sophisticated design choice, allowing for efficient vertical access to the upper levels of the side chambers while minimizing the footprint within the sacred precinct. It suggests an advanced level of craftsmanship and engineering employed in the Temple's construction.
* **Middle (Hebrew, _tîykôwn'_):** This word (H8484) signifies "central" or "middle(-most)." In the context of the Temple's side chambers, it refers to the second level in a series of three stories. The progression from the "middle" into the "third" chamber emphasizes the multi-tiered nature of these annexes and the sequential access required to reach their various levels, each potentially serving distinct functions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The door for the middle chamber [was] in the right side of the house:"** This initial clause precisely locates the entrance to the Temple's side chambers. The "right side" (Hebrew: _yᵉmânîy_) typically refers to the south side when facing the Temple's eastern entrance. This detail emphasizes the specific, designated point of entry, highlighting the meticulous and orderly nature of the Temple's design, where even auxiliary spaces had clearly defined access points.
* **"and they went up with winding stairs into the middle [chamber],"** This part of the verse describes the method of ascent to the first accessible level of the side chambers. The "winding stairs" (Hebrew: _lûwl_) were the spiral staircase by which authorized personnel, likely priests or Levites, ascended to the second story (the "middle chamber") of the three-storied annex. This showcases the architectural ingenuity and the controlled, yet efficient, means of access to these functional areas.
* **"and out of the middle into the third."** This final clause completes the description of the vertical access, indicating that from the middle chamber, one could continue ascending to the "third" or uppermost chamber. This confirms the multi-story nature of the side chambers and the progressive, vertical access system, reinforcing the idea of distinct levels within the Temple complex, each potentially serving different functions or requiring varying levels of access and security.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device evident in [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs"), and indeed throughout much of [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Solomon Builds the Temple"), is **Architectural Description** or **Detailed Enumeration**. The text functions almost as a blueprint, providing precise measurements, materials, and specific features like doors and stairs. This meticulous attention to detail serves to underscore the divine origin and immense significance of the Temple as a sacred space, implying that its design was not arbitrary but divinely inspired, much like the Tabernacle's. The mention of "winding stairs" and the progression from "middle" to "third" chamber also subtly employs **Symbolism** of ascent and progression, which, while primarily functional in this immediate context, can be spiritually interpreted as a journey towards deeper understanding or closer proximity to the sacred. Furthermore, the consistent focus on specific, observable architectural elements lends a strong sense of **Verisimilitude** and historical accuracy to the biblical account, grounding the narrative in tangible reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous architectural details of the Temple, as precisely outlined in [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs"), unveil a profound theological truth: God is a God of order, precision, and excellence. The divine blueprint for the Temple, whether explicitly revealed or implicitly understood through its sacred function, demanded perfection in every minute detail. This unwavering attention, extending even to the "side chambers" and their specific access points, reflects that nothing in God's service is trivial or insignificant. The Temple, as the dwelling place of God's manifest presence, was to be a paragon of holiness and functional beauty, demonstrating that the sacred and the practical are not mutually exclusive but are intricately intertwined in divine design. This principle extends profoundly to our spiritual lives, reminding us that God cares about the details of our devotion and service, calling us to offer our utmost in all aspects of our walk with Him.

* [Exodus 25:9](/exodus/25-9 "Exodus 25:9 - Pattern of the Tabernacle")
* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Earthly Sanctuary a Copy of Heavenly")
* [1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - All things done decently and in order")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical Temple of Solomon no longer stands, the profound principles embedded in [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs") remain deeply relevant for our spiritual formation and communal life. The meticulous attention to detail in the Temple's construction serves as a powerful reminder that God values excellence, order, and intentionality in our worship, our service, and our daily walk. Just as the side chambers, though auxiliary to the main sanctuary, were indispensable for the Temple's efficient operation, so too are the seemingly small, "behind-the-scenes" aspects of our faith crucial for the overall health and effectiveness of our spiritual lives and our communities. Our character, our integrity in private, our consistent disciplines, and our faithful stewardship of seemingly minor responsibilities—these are the "winding stairs" that lead to deeper spiritual growth and greater usefulness in God's kingdom. The progressive nature of the ascent, from one chamber to another, can symbolize the journey of discipleship, which often requires effort, patience, and a willingness to navigate through various stages to reach deeper levels of understanding, maturity, and intimacy with God. It encourages us to be diligent and purposeful in building our lives as spiritual temples, recognizing that our bodies are indeed temples of the Holy Spirit, as powerfully taught in [1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I need to pay more attention to "detail" and "order" as a reflection of God's character?**
* **What "winding stairs" (disciplines, challenges, learning experiences) am I currently navigating that are leading me to a deeper spiritual "chamber" or level of maturity?**
* **How does the functional purpose of the Temple's side chambers inform my understanding of the practical, often unseen, aspects of serving God today within my community or personal life?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of the "middle chamber" and other side chambers in the Temple?**

Answer: The side chambers surrounding Solomon's Temple, including the "middle chamber" mentioned in [1 Kings 6:8](/1_kings/6-8 "1 Kings 6:8 - Temple Side Chambers and Winding Stairs"), served a variety of crucial practical and functional purposes essential for the daily operation and comprehensive maintenance of the entire Temple complex. These multi-storied rooms were primarily utilized for the secure storage of sacred vessels, priestly garments, Temple treasures, and the tithes and offerings brought by the people. Additionally, they may have provided living quarters or resting places for priests and Levites who were on duty, or served as administrative offices for various Temple functions. Their existence highlights the comprehensive nature of the Temple, not merely as a place of worship, but as a fully equipped and self-sustaining religious and administrative center vital to the spiritual and communal life of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The intricate design of Solomon's Temple, with its various chambers and progressive, winding access, ultimately serves as a profound foreshadowing of the greater reality found in Jesus Christ. The "winding stairs" leading to the "middle" and "third" chambers symbolize the Old Covenant's structured, often indirect, and limited access to God's presence, restricted to specific people (the Levitical priesthood) and a specific physical location (the Temple). However, Jesus radically fulfills and transcends this entire system. He is not merely a door to a chamber, but the ultimate "door" and the direct "way" to the Father, as He powerfully declared in [John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door") and [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life"). Through His sacrificial death on the cross and His glorious resurrection, the very veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Veil Torn")), signifying that the barrier between a holy God and sinful humanity was irrevocably removed. No longer do we need winding stairs or confined chambers to approach God; instead, believers are now living temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")), with bold and direct access to God's throne of grace through Christ ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). Jesus is the new and living way, making the complex, multi-layered access of the Old Covenant obsolete and inviting all who believe to enter into the very presence of God through Him.

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.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 41:6

And the side chambers [were] three, one over another, and thirty in order; and they entered into the wall which [was] of the house for the side chambers round about, that they might have hold, but they had not hold in the wall of the house.

Ezekiel 41:7

And [there was] an enlarging, and a winding about still upward to the side chambers: for the winding about of the house went still upward round about the house: therefore the breadth of the house [was still] upward, and so increased [from] the lowest [chamber] to the highest by the midst.