1 Kings 7:23

KJV

And he made a molten sea, ten cubits from the one brim to the other: [it was] round all about, and his height [was] five cubits: and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he made {H6213} a molten {H3332} sea {H3220}, ten {H6235} cubits {H520} from the one brim {H8193} to the other {H8193}: it was round {H5696} all about {H5439}, and his height {H6967} was five {H2568} cubits {H520}: and a line {H6957}{H6961} of thirty {H7970} cubits {H520} did compass {H5437} it round about {H5439}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He made the cast metal "Sea" circular, seventeen-and-a-half feet from rim to rim, eight-and-three quarter feet high and fifty-two-and-a-half feet in circumference.

Berean Standard Bible

He also made the Sea of cast metal. It was circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim, five cubits in height, and thirty cubits in circumference.

American Standard Version

And he made the molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and the height thereof was five cubits; and a line of thirty cubits compassed it round about.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 7:23 provides the precise dimensions of the "molten sea," a monumental bronze basin that stood prominently within Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. This verse, part of a detailed account of the Temple's construction and furnishings, highlights the immense scale, meticulous design, and profound craftsmanship dedicated to the sacred space. As a vital component for the priests' ritual ablutions, its specifications underscore the profound emphasis on ceremonial purity and the grandeur befitting the dwelling place of the Holy God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a comprehensive description of King Solomon's construction projects, specifically the Temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 6) and his own palace (1 Kings 7). Following the completion of the main Temple structure, chapter 7 meticulously details the various bronze furnishings and vessels crafted by Hiram of Tyre, a skilled artisan from Phoenicia. The "molten sea" is presented as one of the most significant and visually striking items, serving a crucial function in the priestly service. Its description here follows that of the two bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, and precedes the account of the ten smaller bronze stands and lavers. This detailed enumeration underscores the divine mandate for precision and excellence in all aspects of the Temple's construction, reflecting the sanctity of the structure dedicated to the Lord.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the First Temple during Solomon's reign (c. 970-931 BC) marked a pivotal moment in ancient Israelite history, signifying the establishment of a permanent dwelling place for God's presence, unlike the portable Tabernacle. This monumental undertaking involved significant resources, skilled labor, and international cooperation, as evidenced by Hiram's involvement. In the ancient Near East, temples were central to religious and civic life, often featuring elaborate structures and ritual objects. The concept of ritual purity was paramount in Israelite worship, rooted in the Mosaic Law. Priests were required to perform specific washings before ministering, ensuring their ceremonial cleanliness before approaching the holy God. The "molten sea" was a sophisticated upgrade from the smaller laver used in the Tabernacle, reflecting the greater scale, permanence, and theological significance of the Temple as the center of Israelite worship.
* **Key Themes:** The Molten Sea, as described in this verse, contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Purity and Holiness in Worship**, emphasizing the absolute necessity of ritual and spiritual cleansing for anyone approaching God. Its large capacity and specific purpose underscore that God is holy and demands purity from those who serve Him, a principle deeply rooted in the Mosaic covenant, as seen with the instructions for the [Tabernacle laver](/exodus/30-18 "Exodus 30:18 - The Bronze Laver"). Secondly, the meticulous description of the Temple's furnishings, including the precise dimensions of the Molten Sea, highlights the theme of **Divine Detail and Excellence**. This attention to detail reflects God's expectation for order, beauty, and the highest quality in all aspects of worship and service, underscoring the glory due to His name. Finally, the Molten Sea also speaks to the theme of **Continuity and Fulfillment**, representing a grander, more permanent iteration of the cleansing basin from the Tabernacle, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promise to David to establish a house for His name, as recorded in [2 Samuel 7:13](/2_samuel/7-13 "2 Samuel 7:13 - God's Promise to David").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Molten Sea (Hebrew: ים מוצק, _yam mutsaq'_):** This term refers to the massive bronze basin. "Molten" (מוצק, _mutsaq'_) indicates that it was cast from metal, a significant feat of ancient metallurgy. The use of "sea" (ים, _yam_) to describe it is a **hyperbole**, emphasizing its immense size and capacity, far beyond that of a typical basin or laver. This nomenclature evokes a sense of vastness and abundance, fitting for a vessel intended to provide water for the numerous priests serving in the Temple.
* **Cubits (Hebrew: אמה, _'ammah'_):** The primary unit of measurement used throughout the description of the Temple and its furnishings. A cubit was an ancient unit of length based on the length of the forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, typically ranging from 17 to 22 inches (approximately 43 to 56 cm). The consistent use of this measurement highlights the **precision** with which the Temple was constructed, reflecting the divine instructions and the meticulous execution by the craftsmen.
* **Compass (Hebrew: קוף, _quph'_):** This verb means "to encircle" or "to go around." In the context of the verse, it describes the measurement of the circumference of the Molten Sea. The phrase "a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about" indicates that a measuring line was used to determine the perimeter, providing a practical, ancient method of confirming its circular dimensions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he made a molten sea,"**: This opening phrase attributes the creation of this significant Temple furnishing to Solomon, implicitly through the work of Hiram of Tyre (as detailed in preceding verses). The "molten" aspect highlights the advanced metallurgical skill required to cast such a massive, single piece of bronze.
* **"ten cubits from the one brim to the other: [it was] round all about,"**: This specifies the diameter of the Molten Sea, stating it was ten cubits across. The phrase "[it was] round all about" confirms its perfectly circular shape, an important detail for both its aesthetic and functional design.
* **"and his height [was] five cubits:"**: This provides the vertical dimension of the basin, indicating its considerable depth. Combined with the diameter, this height suggests a substantial volume, necessary for the extensive ritual washings of the priests.
* **"and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about."**: This final clause gives the circumference of the Molten Sea. The mention of a "line" underscores the practical, hands-on method of measurement in ancient times. This specific dimension, when compared with the diameter, famously implies a value of Pi (circumference/diameter) as exactly 3. This is generally understood not as a mathematical error in the biblical text, but as a practical, rounded measurement sufficient for the architectural and functional purposes of the time, or perhaps reflecting an approximation common in ancient engineering.

#### Literary Devices
The description of the Molten Sea in 1 Kings 7:23 employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Precision and Detail**, as the verse provides exact measurements for the diameter, height, and circumference. This meticulousness serves to emphasize the grandeur and sacredness of the Temple, suggesting that God's dwelling place demanded the highest standards of craftsmanship and adherence to divine specifications. The naming of the basin as a "molten **sea**" is a form of **Hyperbole**, using an exaggerated term to convey its immense size and capacity, far beyond a typical basin. This choice of word elevates the object's significance. Furthermore, the verse employs **Symbolism**, as the water within the basin, and by extension the basin itself, symbolizes purification and cleansing, a recurring motif throughout the Old Testament concerning access to God's holy presence. The detailed enumeration of dimensions also contributes to a sense of **Realism**, grounding the narrative in tangible, verifiable details that would have been impressive to its original audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Molten Sea served as a powerful symbol of the absolute necessity of purification for those who would approach a holy God. Its immense size and constant supply of water underscored the pervasive need for cleansing from defilement before engaging in sacred service. Theologically, this points to the unapproachable holiness of God and the inherent sinfulness of humanity, which requires a means of atonement and purification. While the physical washing of the priests was ceremonial, it represented a deeper spiritual truth: that only the pure can stand in God's presence. The meticulous design also reflects God's demand for excellence and order in worship, emphasizing that our approach to Him should be marked by reverence and preparation. Ultimately, the Molten Sea, like all Temple rituals, foreshadowed a more profound and complete cleansing to come.

* [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18 "Exodus 30:18-21 - Instructions for the Bronze Laver")
* [Psalm 51:7](/psalm/51-7 "Psalm 51:7 - Prayer for Cleansing and Purity")
* [Hebrews 9:13-14](/hebrews/9-13 "Hebrews 9:13-14 - The Superiority of Christ's Blood for Cleansing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical ritual of washing at the Molten Sea is no longer practiced by believers today, its underlying spiritual principle remains profoundly relevant. The Molten Sea stands as a timeless reminder of the holiness of God and our perpetual need for spiritual cleansing. In the New Covenant, our cleansing is not achieved through ritualistic ablutions or the blood of animals, but through the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His shed blood purifies us from all sin, making us acceptable to draw near to God. This truth calls us to a life of ongoing repentance and faith, acknowledging our daily need for God's grace and forgiveness. It urges us to cultivate a pure heart and to cleanse ourselves from all spiritual defilement as we seek to walk with Him and worship Him in spirit and truth, knowing that we can now [draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith](/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Drawing Near to God with Assurance"). Just as the priests prepared themselves, we are called to prepare our hearts, examining ourselves and confessing our sins, so that our worship and service may be pleasing to God. As [2 Corinthians 7:1](/2_corinthians/7-1 "2 Corinthians 7:1 - Cleansing from Defilement") exhorts, we are to "cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the immense size and purpose of the Molten Sea challenge my understanding of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin?**
* **In what practical ways can I, as a New Covenant believer, apply the principle of "cleansing" before approaching God in worship or service?**
* **How does the Molten Sea's symbolism point me to a deeper appreciation for the complete and sufficient cleansing offered through Jesus Christ?**

### FAQ

**What was the primary function of the Molten Sea in Solomon's Temple?**

Answer: The primary function of the Molten Sea was to provide water for the priests to wash their hands and feet before ministering in the Temple. This ritual washing was essential for their ceremonial purification, ensuring they were clean and consecrated before performing sacred duties and approaching the holy presence of God. While it was a massive basin, it was not for the general congregation but specifically for the Levitical priesthood, as detailed in passages like [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18 "Exodus 30:18-21 - Instructions for the Bronze Laver") concerning the Tabernacle's laver, which the Molten Sea superseded.

**Why does the calculation of Pi (circumference divided by diameter) appear to be exactly 3 in this verse, when modern mathematics knows it to be approximately 3.14159?**

Answer: The apparent discrepancy, where a 10-cubit diameter and a 30-cubit circumference imply a Pi of exactly 3, is widely understood by scholars not as a mathematical error in the biblical text, but rather as a practical measurement or a rounded figure common in ancient calculations and engineering. In ancient times, precise mathematical constants like Pi were not known or needed for construction. Builders often used simple ratios for practical purposes. It's also possible that the "line of thirty cubits" refers to the inner circumference, or that the measurement was an approximation for a large object, or even that the "brim" (diameter) was measured from the outer edge while the "line" (circumference) was measured slightly differently. The Bible's purpose is theological and historical, not to provide precise scientific data, and the measurement was certainly sufficient for the architectural and functional needs of the Temple.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Molten Sea, with its vast capacity for cleansing water, stands as a profound Old Testament type pointing directly to the ultimate and perfect purification found in Jesus Christ. Just as the priests required ritual washing to approach God in the Temple, humanity, defiled by sin, requires a more profound cleansing to enter God's presence. Christ is the true "fountain opened for sin and uncleanness" ([Zechariah 13:1](/zechariah/13-1 "Zechariah 13:1 - A Fountain for Sin and Uncleanness")), whose blood cleanses us from all unrighteousness ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing from All Sin by Christ's Blood")). The Molten Sea provided external, temporary cleansing; Christ offers internal, eternal purification, not merely of hands and feet, but of the conscience itself ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Cleansing of Conscience by Christ's Blood")). Through His atoning sacrifice, He has inaugurated a new covenant where access to God is no longer mediated by ritual washings but by His own body and blood, allowing us to [draw near to the throne of grace with confidence](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Drawing Near to the Throne of Grace"). He is our great High Priest who has entered the true heavenly sanctuary, making us clean and holy, enabling us to serve the living God with a truly purified heart, a spiritual reality far surpassing the physical symbolism of the Molten Sea. This cleansing is not a one-time event but a continuous reality for believers, rooted in the "washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit" ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration")).

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

2 Chronicles 4:2

Also he made a molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and five cubits the height thereof; and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.

2 Kings 25:13

And the pillars of brass that [were] in the house of the LORD, and the bases, and the brasen sea that [was] in the house of the LORD, did the Chaldees break in pieces, and carried the brass of them to Babylon.

Jeremiah 52:17

Also the pillars of brass that [were] in the house of the LORD, and the bases, and the brasen sea that [was] in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans brake, and carried all the brass of them to Babylon.

1 Chronicles 18:8

Likewise from Tibhath, and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer, brought David very much brass, wherewith Solomon made the brasen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass.

Exodus 30:18

Thou shalt also make a laver [of] brass, and his foot [also of] brass, to wash [withal]: and thou shalt put it between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and thou shalt put water therein.

Exodus 30:21

So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not: and it shall be a statute for ever to them, [even] to him and to his seed throughout their generations.

Exodus 38:8

And he made the laver [of] brass, and the foot of it [of] brass, of the lookingglasses of [the women] assembling, which assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.