1 Kings 7:29

And on the borders that [were] between the ledges [were] lions, oxen, and cherubims: and upon the ledges [there was] a base above: and beneath the lions and oxen [were] certain additions made of thin work.

And on the borders {H4526} that were between the ledges {H7948} were lions {H738}, oxen {H1241}, and cherubims {H3742}: and upon the ledges {H7948} there was a base {H3653} above {H4605}: and beneath the lions {H738} and oxen {H1241} were certain additions {H3914} made of thin {H4174} work {H4639}.

and on the panels between the corner-posts were lions, oxen and k'ruvim. The corner-posts above were similarly designed. Below the lions and oxen were wreaths of hammered work.

and on the panels between the uprights were lions, oxen, and cherubim. On the uprights was a pedestal above, and below the lions and oxen were wreaths of beveled work.

and on the panels that were between the ledges were lions, oxen, and cherubim; and upon the ledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions and oxen were wreaths of hanging work.

Commentary

1 Kings 7:29 offers a glimpse into the exquisite detail and symbolic artistry incorporated into King Solomon's magnificent Temple. This verse specifically describes the intricate decorations on the movable stands that supported the ten bronze lavers, which were large basins used by the priests for ceremonial washing.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in 1 Kings (chapters 6-7) that meticulously details the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem and its furnishings. The Temple was the central place of worship for ancient Israel, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. The bronze work, much of it crafted by Hiram of Tyre, a master artisan, was exceptionally elaborate. The lavers and their stands served a crucial practical purpose for purification, as priests were required to wash before ministering in the sanctuary (cf. Exodus 30:18-21), but their ornamentation also carried deep symbolic meaning.

Key Themes

  • Divine Glory and Presence: The depiction of cherubims (Hebrew: keruvim) is highly significant. These winged celestial beings are consistently associated with God's throne, His presence, and His glory throughout Scripture. They guarded the Tree of Life (Genesis 3:24), were embroidered on the Tabernacle curtains, and adorned the Ark of the Covenant (cf. Exodus 25:18-22), and appeared in prophetic visions (cf. Ezekiel 1:5-12). Their presence on the Temple furnishings underscored that the Temple was a sacred space where God's presence was manifested.
  • Strength and Utility: The inclusion of lions (Hebrew: 'arayot) and oxen (Hebrew: bakar) symbolizes power, strength, and service. Lions often represent royalty, might, and guardianship, while oxen signify labor, steadfastness, and were commonly used for sacrifice. Their imagery here suggests the robust and foundational nature of the Temple's sacred functions and the strength required for priestly service.
  • Exquisite Craftsmanship: The phrase "certain additions made of thin work" (Hebrew: ma'aseh meshukkal) implies delicate, intricate, and finely wrought decorative elements, possibly openwork or filigree. This highlights the immense skill, expense, and attention to detail invested in every part of the Temple, reflecting the profound reverence and value placed on God's dwelling place.
  • Symbolism of Purity: The lavers themselves were for cleansing, emphasizing the crucial theme of purity and holiness required for those who ministered in God's presence. The beauty of their stands reflects the importance of the cleansing process.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms for the creatures—keruvim (cherubim), 'arayot (lions), and bakar (oxen)—all carry rich symbolic weight, contributing to the overall message of divine power, glory, and dedicated service within the Temple. The description of "thin work" suggests a high level of artistic and metallurgical expertise, indicating that the best of human skill was offered in devotion to God.

Practical Application

The meticulous detail given to the Temple's furnishings, even to the decorative borders of the laver stands, teaches us about the nature of true worship. It underscores that everything dedicated to God should be done with excellence, reverence, and intentionality. While believers today no longer worship in a physical temple, as our bodies are now considered temples of the Holy Spirit, this verse reminds us that our service, our devotion, and our entire lives should be offered to God with the highest regard. It encourages us to approach spiritual matters with a sense of holiness and to recognize the glorious presence of God in all aspects of our lives.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 9:5

    And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.

  • Ezekiel 41:18

    And [it was] made with cherubims and palm trees, so that a palm tree [was] between a cherub and a cherub; and [every] cherub had two faces;

  • Ezekiel 41:19

    So that the face of a man [was] toward the palm tree on the one side, and the face of a young lion toward the palm tree on the other side: [it was] made through all the house round about.

  • Ezekiel 1:10

    As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle.

  • Hosea 5:14

    For I [will be] unto Ephraim as a lion, and as a young lion to the house of Judah: I, [even] I, will tear and go away; I will take away, and none shall rescue [him].

  • 1 Kings 7:25

    It stood upon twelve oxen, three looking toward the north, and three looking toward the west, and three looking toward the south, and three looking toward the east: and the sea [was set] above upon them, and all their hinder parts [were] inward.

  • 1 Peter 2:5

    Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
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