1 Kings 7:17

[And] nets of checker work, and wreaths of chain work, for the chapiters which [were] upon the top of the pillars; seven for the one chapiter, and seven for the other chapiter.

And nets {H7638} of checker {H7639} work {H4639}, and wreaths {H1434} of chain {H8333} work {H4639}, for the chapiters {H3805} which were upon the top {H7218} of the pillars {H5982}; seven {H7651} for the one {H259} chapiter {H3805}, and seven {H7651} for the other {H8145} chapiter {H3805}.

he also made checker-work nets and chained wreaths, seven for the top of each capital.

For the capitals on top of the pillars he made a network of lattice, with wreaths of chainwork, seven for each capital.

There were nets of checker-work, and wreaths of chain-work, for the capitals which were upon the top of the pillars; seven for the one capital, and seven for the other capital.

Commentary

This verse offers a glimpse into the exquisite and detailed craftsmanship involved in the construction of King Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. It describes specific decorative elements for the "chapiters" (capitals) of the two massive bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, which stood at the Temple's entrance. The focus here is on the intricate adornments that crowned these significant architectural features.

Context

1 Kings chapter 7 provides a meticulous inventory of the various structures built by Solomon, including his own palace and the Temple. Verses 15-22 specifically detail the creation of the two bronze pillars, including their dimensions and general form. Verse 17 narrows in on the decorative elements that adorned the top of these pillars, known as chapiters. These were not merely functional supports but works of art, crafted by Hiram of Tyre, a master bronze worker. The description highlights the opulence and grandeur intended for God's dwelling place, reflecting the highest standards of the era's craftsmanship.

Key Themes

  • Magnificence and Detail: The verse underscores the extraordinary attention to detail and the lavish resources dedicated to the Temple's construction. Every part, even the decorative elements of the pillars, was designed with beauty and precision, reflecting the immense glory of God to whom the Temple was dedicated.
  • Symbolism of Design: The "nets of checker work" and "wreaths of chain work" suggest intricate, perhaps interwoven patterns that added visual richness. The specification of "seven" for each chapiter is significant; the number seven frequently symbolizes completeness, perfection, or divine order throughout Scripture, as seen in God resting on the seventh day after creation. This could imply a desire for perfect beauty and spiritual fullness in the Temple's design.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "chapiters" (KJV) refers to the ornamental capitals or crowns of the pillars. These were the decorative top portions that transitioned from the shaft of the pillar to the structure it supported.
  • "Nets of checker work" likely describes a lattice-like or crisscross pattern, suggesting an open, woven design.
  • "Wreaths of chain work" points to interwoven or linked decorative chains, adding another layer of texture and complexity to the capitals.
  • The repeated "seven" for each chapiter's adornment emphasizes a deliberate numerical pattern, consistent with the biblical use of numbers to convey meaning beyond mere quantity.

Practical Application

The meticulous description of the Temple's details, even down to the "checker work" and "chain work" on the chapiters, reminds us that God values excellence and beauty in what is offered to Him. This passage encourages believers to consider the quality and intention behind their own acts of worship and service. Just as the physical Temple was built with the finest materials and craftsmanship, our spiritual lives, our devotion, and our contributions to God's kingdom should reflect a desire for the highest standard of excellence. It teaches us that attention to detail, even in seemingly small aspects, can contribute to a grander picture of devotion and reverence for God.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:24 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt put the two wreathen [chains] of gold in the two rings [which are] on the ends of the breastplate.

  • Exodus 28:25 (2 votes)

    And [the other] two ends of the two wreathen [chains] thou shalt fasten in the two ouches, and put [them] on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it.

  • 2 Kings 25:17 (2 votes)

    The height of the one pillar [was] eighteen cubits, and the chapiter upon it [was] brass: and the height of the chapiter three cubits; and the wreathen work, and pomegranates upon the chapiter round about, all of brass: and like unto these had the second pillar with wreathen work.

  • Exodus 28:14 (2 votes)

    And two chains [of] pure gold at the ends; [of] wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the ouches.

  • Exodus 28:22 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends [of] wreathen work [of] pure gold.

  • Exodus 39:15 (2 votes)

    And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, [of] wreathen work [of] pure gold.

  • Exodus 39:18 (2 votes)

    And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.