1 Kings 7:42

KJV

And four hundred pomegranates for the two networks, [even] two rows of pomegranates for one network, to cover the two bowls of the chapiters that [were] upon the pillars;

KJV (with Strong's)

And four {H702} hundred {H3967} pomegranates {H7416} for the two {H8147} networks {H7639}, even two {H8147} rows {H2905} of pomegranates {H7416} for one {H259} network {H7639}, to cover {H3680} the two {H8147} bowls {H1543} of the chapiters {H3805} that were upon {H6440} the pillars {H5982};

Complete Jewish Bible

the 400 pomegranates for the two nettings, two rows of pomegranates for each netting, to cover the two moldings of the capitals atop the columns,

Berean Standard Bible

the four hundred pomegranates for the two sets of network (two rows of pomegranates for each network covering both the bowl-shaped capitals atop the pillars);

American Standard Version

and the four hundred pomegranates for the two networks; two rows of pomegranates for each network, to cover the two bowls of the capitals that were upon the pillars;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 7:42 furnishes a precise architectural detail regarding the elaborate ornamentation of Solomon's magnificent Temple, specifically describing the four hundred pomegranates meticulously arranged in two rows on each of the intricate lattice-networks that adorned the bowl-shaped capitals of the two colossal bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, positioned prominently at the Temple's entrance. This verse underscores the extraordinary craftsmanship and the profound attention to detail invested in the sacred structure, reflecting the immense reverence and value placed upon God's dwelling place.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a highly detailed account of the construction and furnishing of Solomon's Temple, spanning [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Construction of Solomon's Temple") and [1 Kings 7](/1_kings/7 "1 Kings 7 - Furnishings of Solomon's Temple"). Following the general description of the Temple's structure in chapter 6, chapter 7 shifts focus to the elaborate bronze furnishings, including the two massive pillars, Jachin and Boaz, described in [1 Kings 7:15-22](/1_kings/7-15 "1 Kings 7:15-22 - Description of Jachin and Boaz"). Verse 42 specifically elaborates on the decorative elements of these pillars' capitals (chapiters), detailing the precise number and arrangement of pomegranates on the "networks" that covered them. This meticulous description highlights the exhaustive nature of the biblical record, emphasizing the divine mandate for precision and beauty in the sacred space. The narrative also underscores the craftsmanship of Hiram of Tyre, the master artisan responsible for these intricate bronze works.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Solomon's reign marked the zenith of Israel's power and wealth, enabling the construction of a temple that would serve as the spiritual and national epicenter for generations. In the ancient Near East, temples were not merely functional buildings but cosmic symbols, reflecting the order and glory of the divine. Their construction often involved the finest materials and skilled artisans, mirroring the status of the deity they housed. Pomegranates, in particular, held significant symbolic value across various ancient cultures, often associated with fertility, abundance, prosperity, and life. Their inclusion on the Temple's prominent pillars would have immediately communicated these concepts to anyone approaching the sacred precinct, reinforcing the idea of God's blessing and fruitfulness associated with His presence. The Temple was not only a place of worship but also a statement of Israel's unique relationship with Yahweh, set apart from surrounding nations.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous description in [1 Kings 7:42](/1_kings/7-42 "1 Kings 7:42 - Pomegranates on Temple Pillars") contributes to several overarching themes within the broader narrative. Firstly, it powerfully conveys the **Divine Glory and Majesty** of God; the sheer scale, precious materials, and intricate details like the four hundred pomegranates underscore the immense value and reverence placed upon His dwelling place, designed to reflect His transcendent beauty. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Symbolism of Abundance and Divine Blessing**. Pomegranates, as noted, were potent symbols of fertility, prosperity, and divine favor, signifying the fruitfulness that God bestows upon His people and the land. This symbolism is also found in the instructions for the high priest's garments in [Exodus 28:33](/exodus/28-33 "Exodus 28:33 - Pomegranates on the High Priest's Robe"), linking the Temple's ornamentation to the sacred office. Finally, the verse exemplifies **Meticulous Craftsmanship and Dedication to Excellence in Worship**. The precise number and arrangement of the pomegranates speak to the extraordinary attention to detail and skill involved in the Temple's construction, reflecting the people's desire to offer their very best to God. This theme resonates throughout the detailed descriptions of the Tabernacle and Temple, emphasizing that God deserves nothing less than the highest quality and most dedicated effort in His service.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pomegranates (Hebrew, _rimmôn'_):** These fruit motifs were highly significant in ancient Israelite and Near Eastern cultures, symbolizing fertility, abundance, prosperity, and divine blessing due to their numerous seeds and juicy pulp. Their presence on the Temple's pillars was not merely aesthetic but carried deep theological weight, representing the fruitfulness and blessings that flow from God's presence and covenant.
* **Networks (Hebrew, _śevāḵâ'_):** This term refers to an intricate latticework or chain-like ornamentation. In the context of the Temple pillars, these networks formed a decorative covering over the capitals, serving as the base upon which the pomegranates were arranged. The use of "networks" suggests a complex, interwoven design, further emphasizing the elaborate and skilled craftsmanship involved.
* **Chapiters (Hebrew, _koteret'_):** Derived from a root meaning "crown," this term denotes the decorative capitals or tops of the pillars. These were the crowning elements of the massive bronze columns, serving as a transition between the shaft of the pillar and the roof structure. The "bowls" mentioned likely refer to a rounded or bell-shaped part of the capital, which was then adorned with the networks and pomegranates.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And four hundred pomegranates":** This specific number emphasizes the extraordinary quantity and the meticulous detail involved in the Temple's ornamentation. The sheer volume of these symbolic fruits underscores the theme of abundance and the lavishness with which God's dwelling place was adorned, reflecting His boundless blessings.
* **"for the two networks, [even] two rows of pomegranates for one network":** This clause clarifies the precise arrangement of the pomegranates. They were distributed across the two "networks" (one on each pillar's capital), with each network featuring two distinct rows of pomegranates. This detail highlights the symmetrical and highly organized design, indicative of careful planning and execution.
* **"to cover the two bowls of the chapiters that [were] upon the pillars;":** This final phrase specifies the exact placement and function of the pomegranates. They were designed to "cover" or adorn the bowl-shaped sections of the capitals (chapiters) that crowned the two main pillars, Jachin and Boaz. This indicates that the pomegranates were a prominent and visible decorative feature, contributing significantly to the overall grandeur and symbolic richness of the Temple's entrance.

#### Literary Devices
The description in 1 Kings 7:42 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. **Detailed Description** or **Ekphrasis** is paramount, as the verse provides a precise, almost architectural blueprint of the pillar ornamentation, allowing the reader to visualize the intricate beauty. The specific enumeration of "four hundred pomegranates" and "two rows" demonstrates a reliance on **Precision** and **Numerology**, where numbers are not merely quantities but contribute to a sense of order, completeness, and divine perfection. **Symbolism** is also central, with the pomegranates themselves serving as powerful symbols of fertility, abundance, and divine blessing, imbuing the physical structure with deeper theological meaning. The verse's focus on these specific, ornate details can also be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where the description of a part (the pomegranates on the capitals) stands in for the magnificent and awe-inspiring nature of the entire Temple structure, reflecting the overall glory and meticulousness of its construction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The precise and lavish description of the pomegranates on the Temple pillars in 1 Kings 7:42 speaks volumes about the nature of worship and God's character. It reveals a God who delights in beauty, order, and excellence, and who expects His dwelling place—and by extension, His people's worship—to reflect His own glory. The abundance symbolized by the pomegranates points to God's desire to bless His people with fruitfulness, not just materially, but spiritually, in their lives and ministries. This meticulous attention to detail also underscores the sacredness of the space and the profound reverence due to the God who would dwell there. It is a testament to the idea that nothing is too good or too detailed when it comes to honoring the Creator of all things.

* [Exodus 28:33](/exodus/28-33 "Exodus 28:33 - Pomegranates on High Priest's Robe")
* [Song of Solomon 4:13](/song_of_solomon/4-13 "Song of Solomon 4:13 - Pomegranates as Symbols of Fruitfulness")
* [Haggai 2:9](/haggai/2-9 "Haggai 2:9 - The Latter Glory of the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While we no longer construct physical temples of stone and gold in the same manner as Solomon, the principles embedded in 1 Kings 7:42 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. The meticulous detail and costly beauty dedicated to God's dwelling place serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of offering our very best in every aspect of our lives—our worship, our service, our talents, and our daily conduct. As New Testament believers, our bodies are now considered a [temple of the Holy Spirit](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Believers as God's Temple"), purchased with a price, calling us to live lives that reflect God's glory and beauty, not just in grand gestures but in the "four hundred pomegranates" of our everyday faithfulness. The symbolism of abundance also reminds us of God's desire to bless His people and the fruitfulness that comes from His presence within us, urging us to bear spiritual fruit for His kingdom. This verse challenges us to consider: Are we giving God our leftovers, or our very best, adorned with intentionality and excellence?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I called to offer "meticulous craftsmanship" and excellence to God, rather than just minimum effort?**
* **How does the symbolism of abundance and fruitfulness, represented by the pomegranates, encourage me in my spiritual walk?**
* **If my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, what "ornamentation" (character traits, actions, attitudes) should I cultivate to reflect God's glory?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and intentionality in my personal and corporate worship, inspired by the details of the Temple?**

### FAQ

**What was the symbolic significance of the pomegranates on the Temple pillars?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East and biblical tradition, pomegranates were rich in symbolism. Their numerous seeds and juicy pulp made them potent emblems of fertility, abundance, prosperity, and life. On the Temple pillars, they likely symbolized the fruitfulness and blessings that God bestows upon His people, the vitality of His presence, and the flourishing of the nation under His covenant. Their inclusion underscored the idea that God's dwelling place was a source of life and blessing, and that His people would be fruitful. This symbolism is also seen in the instructions for the high priest's robe in [Exodus 28:33](/exodus/28-33 "Exodus 28:33 - Pomegranates on the High Priest's Robe"), where pomegranates alternated with golden bells, further linking them to sacred worship and divine presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Kings 7:42 meticulously describes the beauty and symbolism of the Old Testament Temple, its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning are found in Jesus Christ. The Temple, with all its intricate beauty and symbolic fruitfulness, served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity. Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, stating, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")" (referring to His body, as explained in [John 2:21](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")). In Christ, the very fullness of deity dwells bodily, making Him the perfect embodiment of God's presence and glory ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). The pomegranates, symbolizing abundance and fruitfulness, find their perfect expression in Christ, who is the source of all spiritual fruit. He is the true vine, and believers are the branches, called to "bear much fruit" through Him ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Jesus the True Vine")). The meticulous craftsmanship of the Temple points to the flawless perfection and divine artistry of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ's perfect sacrifice, which is infinitely more precious than any gold or bronze ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Ultimately, the beauty and glory of the earthly Temple point to the unsurpassed beauty of Christ's holiness and the eternal Temple of the New Jerusalem, where God's glory is the light and the Lamb is its lamp ([Revelation 21:22-23](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22-23 - God and the Lamb as the Temple in New Jerusalem")).

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

1 Kings 7:20

And the chapiters upon the two pillars [had pomegranates] also above, over against the belly which [was] by the network: and the pomegranates [were] two hundred in rows round about upon the other chapiter.