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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Kings 7:13–47. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here an account of the brass-work about the temple. There was no iron about the temple, though we find David preparing for the temple iron for things of iron, Ch1 29:2. What those things were we are not told, but some of the things of brass are here described and the rest mentioned.
I.The brasier whom Solomon employed to preside in this part of the work was Hiram, or Huram (Ch2 4:11), who was by his mother's side an Israelite, of the tribe of Naphtali, by his father's side a man of Tyre, Kg1 7:14. If he had the ingenuity of a Tyrian, and the affection of an Israelite to the house of God (the head of a Tyrian and the heart of an Israelite), it was happy that the blood of the two nations mixed in him, for thereby he was qualified for the work to which he was designed. As the tabernacle was built with the wealth of Egypt, so the temple with the wit of Tyre. God will serve himself by the common gifts of the children of men.
II.The brass he made use of was the best he could get.
All the brazen vessels were of bright brass (Kg1 7:45), good brass, so the Chaldee, that which was strongest and looked finest. God, who is the best, must be served and honoured with the best.
III.The place where all the brazen vessels were cast was the plain of Jordan, because the ground there was stiff and clayey, fit to make moulds of for the casting of the brass (Kg1 7:46), and Solomon would not have this dirty smoky work done in or near Jerusalem.
IV.The quantity was not accounted for.
The vessels were unnumbered (so it may be read, Kg1 7:47, as well as unweighed), because they were exceedingly numerous, and it would have been an endless thing to keep the account of them; neither was the weight of the brass, when it was delivered to the workmen, searched or enquired into; so honest were the workmen, and such great plenty of brass they had, that there was no danger of wanting. We must ascribe it to Solomon's care that he provided so much, not to his carelessness that he kept no account of it.
V.Some particulars of the brass-work are described.
1.Two brazen pillars, which were set up in the porch of the temple (Kg1 7:21), whether under the cover of the porch or in the open air is not certain; it was between the temple and the court of the priests. These pillars were neither to hang gates upon nor to rest any building upon, but purely for ornament and significancy.
(1.)What an ornament they were we may gather from the account here given of the curious work that was about them, chequer-work, chain-work, net-work, lily-work, and pomegranates in rows, and all of bright brass, and framed no doubt according to the best rules of proportion, to please the eye.
(2.)Their significancy is intimated in the names given them (Kg1 7:21): Jachin - he will establish; and Boaz - in him is strength. Some think they were intended for memorials of the pillar of cloud and fire which led Israel through the wilderness: I rather think them designed for memorandums to the priests and others that came to worship at God's door,
[1.]To depend upon God only, and not upon any sufficiency of their own, for strength and establishment in all their religious exercises. When we come to wait upon God, and find our hearts wandering and unfixed, then by faith let us fetch in help from heaven: Jachin - God will fix this roving mind. It is a good thing that the heart be established with grace. We find ourselves weak and unable for holy duties, but this is our encouragement: Boaz - in him is our strength, who works in us both to will and to do. I will go in the strength of the Lord God. Spiritual strength and stability are to be had at the door of God's temple, where we must wait for the gifts of grace in the use of the means of grace.
[2.]It was a memorandum to them of the strength and establishment of the temple of God among them. Let them keep close to God and duty, and they should never lose their dignities and privileges, but the grant should be confirmed and perpetuated to them. The gospel church is what God will establish, what he will strengthen, and what the gates of hell can never prevail against. But, with respect to this temple, when it was destroyed particular notice was taken of the destroying of these pillars (Kg2 25:13, Kg2 25:17), which had been the tokens of its establishment, and would have been so if they had not forsaken God.
2.A brazen sea, a very large vessel, above five yards in diameter, and which contained above 500 barrels of water for the priests' use, in washing themselves and the sacrifices, and keeping the courts of the temple clean, Kg1 7:23, etc. It stood raised upon the figures of twelve oxen in brass, so high that either they must have stairs to climb up to it or cocks at the bottom to draw water from it. The Gibeonites, or Nethinim, who were to draw water for the house of God, had the care of filling it. Some think Solomon made the images of oxen to support this great cistern in contempt of the golden calf which Israel had worshipped, that (as bishop Patrick expresses it) the people might see there was nothing worthy of adoration in those figures; they were fitter to make posts of than to make gods of. Yet this prevailed not to prevent Jerusalem's setting up the calves for deities. In the court of the tabernacle there was only a laver of brass provided to wash in, but in the court of the temple a sea of brass, intimating that by the gospel of Christ much fuller preparation is made for our cleansing than was by the law of Moses. That had a laver, this has a sea, a fountain opened, Zac 13:1.
3.Ten bases, or stands, or settles, of brass, on which were put ten lavers, to be filled with water for the service of the temple, because there would not be room at the molten sea for all that had occasion to wash there. The bases on which the lavers were fixed are very largely described here, Kg1 7:27, etc. They were curiously adorned and set upon wheels, that the lavers might be removed as there was occasion; but ordinarily they stood in two rows, five on one side of the court and five on the other, Kg1 7:39. Each laver contained forty baths, that is, about ten barrels, Kg1 7:38. Those must be very clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Spiritual priests and spiritual sacrifices must be washed in the laver of Christ's blood and of regeneration. We must wash often, for we daily contract pollution, must cleanse our hands and purify our hearts. Plentiful provision is made for our cleansing; so that if we have our lot for ever among the unclean it will be our own fault.
4.Besides these, there was a vast number of brass pots made to boil the flesh of the peace-offerings in, which the priests and offerers were to feast upon before the Lord (see Sa1 2:14); also shovels, wherewith they took out the ashes of the altar. Some think the word signifies flesh-hooks, with which they took meat out of the pot. The basins also were made of brass, to receive the blood of the sacrifices. These are put for all the utensils of the brazen altar, Exo 38:3. While they were about it they made abundance of them, that they might have a good stock by them when those that were first in use wore out and went to decay. Thus Solomon, having wherewithal to do so, provided for posterity.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
However, that each of the bases was four cubits long and four cubits high is easy to understand. For the length refers to the patience of long endurance, the width to the expansiveness of love, the height to the hope of heavenly reward. Moreover, there are four principal virtues on which the rest of the structure of the virtues depends, namely, prudence, fortitude, temperance and justice, and the reason why the length and width of the bases was four cubits was that holy preachers, whether they endure outwardly the adversities of the world, the lengthy exile and present labors, or expand their heart in the love of their Creator and of their neighbors with inward joy, always pay attention to the virtues, that is, by prudently distinguishing between good things and evil, courageously bearing adversity, restraining their heart from its desire of pleasures and maintaining uprightness in their manner of acting. But the height of the bases is three cubits when, through the exercise of the virtues that they practice by the endurance of evils and the love of what is good, they strive with sustained resolve to attain the vision of the holy Trinity.
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Summary
1 Kings 7:27 offers precise architectural specifications for ten movable bronze bases commissioned for Solomon's Temple. This verse, embedded within a detailed account of the Temple's construction and furnishings, meticulously outlines the exact dimensions of these substantial stands: four cubits in length, four cubits in breadth, and three cubits in height. These bases were integral components, designed to support the large lavers used by priests for ritual washing, thereby underscoring the meticulous planning, divine standard of excellence, and functional holiness applied to every aspect of the sacred edifice.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the expansive narrative of Solomon's monumental building projects, primarily focusing on the construction of the Temple, as detailed in 1 Kings 6-7. Following the general architectural layout and construction of the Temple building itself in 1 Kings 6, the text in 1 Kings 7 shifts its focus to the intricate and numerous furnishings and sacred vessels that would fill the sanctuary. This transition from the grand structure to its detailed contents emphasizes the holistic nature of the divine blueprint and the importance of every component. The description of these bases immediately precedes the detailed account of the ten lavers they supported (1 Kings 7:38-39), highlighting their functional relationship. The meticulous enumeration of dimensions and materials throughout this section underscores the importance of each element in the overall design, reflecting a divinely inspired precision that left nothing to chance.
Historical & Cultural Context
The construction of Solomon's Temple was a monumental undertaking, reflecting the zenith of Israelite power, wealth, and influence during the United Monarchy. King Solomon leveraged vast resources, including forced labor and international expertise, most notably employing skilled artisans from Tyre, a renowned center for metalwork and craftsmanship. Hiram of Tyre is specifically mentioned as the master craftsman responsible for the bronze work, including these elaborate bases. Bronze (often translated "brass" in older versions) was a highly valued and durable metal in the ancient Near East, signifying strength, permanence, and often sacred use. The precise measurements, given in cubits, were standard for ancient construction, emphasizing the practical engineering required for such large, functional objects. The Temple itself was the central place of worship for Israel, serving as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Every component, including these bases and their lavers, played a crucial role in the prescribed rituals of purification and sacrifice, which were vital to the Israelite covenant relationship with God.
Key Themes
The meticulous description of the bases in 1 Kings 7:27 contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the Divine Mandate and Meticulous Detail required for God's dwelling place. The precise dimensions underscore that the Temple was not merely a human construction but built according to a divine pattern, similar to the earlier Tabernacle (Exodus 25:9). Secondly, the Functionality for Sacred Service is paramount; these bases were not decorative but served the vital purpose of holding the lavers for priestly purification, emphasizing the essential role of holiness and cleansing in approaching God (Exodus 30:17-21). Finally, the sheer number (ten) and substantial size of these bronze structures, along with the other opulent materials, speak to the Grandeur and Abundant Resources committed to the Lord's house, reflecting Solomon's dedication and the nation's prosperity under God's blessing (1 Kings 10:23-27).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root (H6213) is broad in its application, meaning "to do or make." In this context, it signifies the act of crafting, constructing, and bringing into being these complex structures. The use of this verb emphasizes the deliberate and purposeful creation of the bases as functional components of the Temple, reflecting the skill and effort invested in their production under Solomon's direction.
This feminine noun (H4350) refers specifically to a pedestal or stand. In the context of 1 Kings 7, it denotes the intricately designed, movable stands or wheeled carts that were engineered to support the large bronze lavers. The detailed description following this verse (1 Kings 7:28-37) reveals their sophisticated construction, including panels, frames, wheels, and supports, indicating they were not mere platforms but complex pieces of engineering.
This term (H520) refers to a standard ancient unit of linear measurement, typically based on the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger (fore-arm). While its exact modern equivalent varied, it is generally estimated to be between 18 and 21 inches (approximately 45-53 cm). The specification of measurements in cubits underscores the practical engineering and precise adherence to design required for such large, functional, and sacred objects within the Temple.
Verse Breakdown
"And he made ten bases of brass"
This opening clause immediately establishes the quantity and primary material of these significant Temple furnishings. The number "ten" suggests a symmetrical arrangement within the Temple courts, likely five on the north side and five on the south, as later described in 1 Kings 7:39. The use of "brass" (more accurately, bronze) emphasizes the durability, value, and sacred quality of these components, reflecting the immense resources and high standards dedicated to God's house.
"four cubits [was] the length of one base, and four cubits the breadth thereof"
This specifies the square footprint of each base. A square shape would have provided exceptional stability for supporting the heavy lavers, which themselves were quite large. The consistent dimensions across all ten bases highlight the uniformity, orderliness, and precision inherent in the Temple's design, reflecting a divinely inspired blueprint.
"and three cubits the height of it"
This detail provides the vertical dimension, indicating that these bases were not low stands but elevated structures. Their height would have made the lavers accessible for the priests performing their ritual washings, while also elevating these sacred vessels, signifying their importance and separating them from common, profane use.
Literary Devices
The description in 1 Kings 7:27 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. The most prominent is Precision, evident in the exact numerical dimensions provided ("four cubits... four cubits... three cubits"). This meticulous detail is not merely architectural but serves a profound theological purpose, emphasizing the divine standard of excellence and the exact adherence to God's instructions for His sacred dwelling. This Repetition of "cubits" reinforces the precise nature of the construction and the importance of every measurement. Furthermore, the verse uses Metonymy, where "bases of brass" stands for the entire complex, divinely-ordered system of Temple worship and the purification rituals it facilitated. The material, "brass" (bronze), also carries Symbolism, representing strength, permanence, and the costly dedication of resources to God. The very act of detailing these measurements contributes to the overall sense of Grandeur and the monumental scale of Solomon's Temple, a physical manifestation of God's presence among His people.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The meticulous detail provided for the bronze bases in 1 Kings 7:27 is not merely an architectural footnote but carries profound theological weight. It underscores the divine expectation for excellence, order, and intentionality in all matters pertaining to worship and service to God. Just as the Tabernacle was built according to a specific divine pattern, so too was the Temple, signifying that God is a God of order, beauty, and intentionality, demanding nothing less than our best. The bases, by supporting the lavers for ritual purification, point to the foundational biblical theme of holiness and the necessity of cleansing before approaching a holy God. This physical preparation for worship foreshadows the spiritual purity required for true communion with the divine, a principle that transcends the Old Covenant and speaks to the ongoing need for sanctification in the life of a believer.
Reflection and Application
The detailed account of the Temple's construction, even down to the precise dimensions of the bronze bases, invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of our own worship and service to God. The meticulousness with which these sacred objects were crafted speaks volumes about God's demand for excellence and intentionality in all that is dedicated to Him. We are called not to casual or half-hearted devotion, but to offer our very best—our time, talents, and resources—with a spirit of reverence and precision, recognizing that we serve a holy God who deserves nothing less. Furthermore, the function of these bases in facilitating purification reminds us of the ongoing need for spiritual cleansing in our lives. Just as the priests had to wash before ministering, believers today are called to walk in holiness, confessing sin and allowing the Holy Spirit to purify and transform us. This continuous process of sanctification enables us to draw near to God with clean hands and a pure heart, prepared for genuine communion and effective service. This pursuit of purity and excellence in our daily walk and corporate worship is our contemporary expression of the meticulous devotion exemplified in the Temple's construction.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the primary purpose of these "bases of brass"?
The "bases of brass" (more accurately, bronze) were intricately designed, movable stands or wheeled carts specifically created to support the ten large lavers (basins) within the Temple courts. These lavers held water and were essential for the priests to wash their hands and feet before ministering at the altar or entering the Holy Place, signifying the absolute necessity of ritual purification for sacred service. The bases elevated the lavers and allowed them to be positioned conveniently for the priests' use, ensuring accessibility for the prescribed cleansing rituals.
Why are the dimensions of these bases so precisely detailed in the Bible?
The precise detailing of the dimensions—four cubits in length and breadth, and three cubits in height—serves multiple significant purposes. Firstly, it underscores the divine origin and pattern for the Temple's construction, much like the Tabernacle was built according to exact specifications given by God (Exodus 25:9). This precision highlights God's demand for order, excellence, and faithful adherence to His instructions in worship. Secondly, it provides a comprehensive historical and architectural record of Solomon's monumental achievement, demonstrating the immense scale and grandeur of the Temple and the vast resources and skilled craftsmanship invested. It also offers valuable insight into ancient Israelite architectural practices and measurement systems.
What is a "cubit" in modern measurements?
A "cubit" was an ancient unit of length, typically based on the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. While its exact modern equivalent varied historically and geographically, it is generally estimated to be between 18 and 21 inches (approximately 45 to 53 centimeters). Therefore, each base described in 1 Kings 7:27 would have been quite substantial, roughly 6 to 7 feet (about 1.8 to 2.1 meters) in length and width, and approximately 4.5 to 5.25 feet (about 1.4 to 1.6 meters) in height, making them robust and prominent features in the Temple courts.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The bronze bases and the lavers they supported in Solomon's Temple, with their emphasis on ritual purification for priestly service, find their ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant system, with its physical structures and ceremonial washings, served as a profound shadow pointing to the perfect, once-for-all cleansing offered by Christ. Just as the priests needed to be purified to approach God, humanity, stained by sin, requires a greater washing. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and His shed blood provides the ultimate and eternal purification that the Temple's lavers could only symbolize (Hebrews 9:11-14). Furthermore, the Temple itself, where God's presence dwelt among His people, foreshadowed Christ's own body as the true temple (John 2:19-21), and subsequently, the Church as the spiritual temple where God's Spirit now resides among believers (1 Corinthians 3:16). Thus, the meticulous detail of the bases, designed to facilitate access to a holy God through ritual, now points to Christ as our Great High Priest who has opened a new and living way for us to draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water (Hebrews 10:19-22). He is the reality to which all Temple furnishings pointed, making true and lasting communion with God possible.