1 Kings 7:48

KJV

¶ And Solomon made all the vessels that [pertained] unto the house of the LORD: the altar of gold, and the table of gold, whereupon the shewbread [was],

KJV (with Strong's)

And Solomon {H8010} made {H6213} all the vessels {H3627} that pertained unto the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}: the altar {H4196} of gold {H2091}, and the table {H7979} of gold {H2091}, whereupon the shewbread {H3899}{H6440} was,

Complete Jewish Bible

Shlomo made all the objects that were inside the house of ADONAI: the gold altar; the table of gold on which the showbread was displayed;

Berean Standard Bible

Solomon also made all the furnishings for the house of the LORD: the golden altar; the golden table on which was placed the Bread of the Presence;

American Standard Version

And Solomon made all the vessels that were in the house of Jehovah: the golden altar, and the table whereupon the showbread was, of gold;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 7:48 meticulously details some of the most sacred and valuable furnishings Solomon crafted for the newly constructed Temple in Jerusalem. This verse specifically highlights the altar of gold and the table of gold for the shewbread, emphasizing the immense wealth, meticulous craftsmanship, and profound reverence dedicated to the worship of the LORD. These golden vessels were central to the daily priestly rituals, symbolizing God's holy presence, His faithful provision for His people, and the continuity of covenant worship from the Tabernacle to a permanent, magnificent structure.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Kings 7:48 is situated within a lengthy and detailed account of the construction and furnishing of Solomon's Temple, spanning from [1 Kings 6](/1_kings/6 "1 Kings 6 - Building the Temple") through the first part of [1 Kings 7](/1_kings/7 "1 Kings 7 - Furnishing the Temple"). Chapter 6 focuses on the architectural design and construction of the Temple building itself, while chapter 7 shifts to the elaborate furnishing of both the Temple and Solomon's own palace. The meticulous description of these vessels, down to their materials and placement, underscores the theological significance of the Temple as God's dwelling place. This verse specifically marks a transition from the larger, more visible bronze items in the outer court (like the great bronze sea and lavers described in [1 Kings 7:23-47](/1_kings/7-23 "1 Kings 7:23-47 - The Bronze Laver and Sea")) to the more precious, golden furnishings located within the Holy Place, closer to the Holy of Holies. The narrative's emphasis on such detail conveys the unparalleled sanctity and divine purpose of these objects.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Temple under King Solomon, roughly in the 10th century BCE, marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history. It signified a shift from the portable Tabernacle, which had served as the center of worship since the Exodus, to a permanent, stationary edifice in Jerusalem. This grand project was a testament to Solomon's immense wealth, administrative prowess, and the stability of the unified kingdom, as prophesied to his father, David (cf. [2 Samuel 7:13](/2_samuel/7-13 "2 Samuel 7:13 - God's Promise to David")). The use of vast quantities of gold, silver, and other precious materials, along with skilled Phoenician craftsmen, reflected the opulence of the era and the cultural understanding that the finest and most valuable resources should be dedicated to the deity. Culturally, the Temple served not only as a place of worship but also as a powerful symbol of national identity, divine favor, and the centralized authority of the Davidic monarchy. The specific items mentioned, like the altar and the table for the shewbread, had direct precedents in the Mosaic Tabernacle, ensuring continuity with established covenant practices.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Majesty and Glory**, as the extensive use of pure gold for the most intimate worship vessels underscores the profound reverence and honor due to God, reflecting the belief that only the finest materials were suitable for the dwelling place of the Most High (cf. [1 Chronicles 29:2-5](/1_chronicles/29-2 "1 Chronicles 29:2-5 - David's Preparations for the Temple")). Secondly, it emphasizes the **Continuity of Covenant Worship**, demonstrating a deliberate and seamless transition of sacred practices and furnishings from the portable Tabernacle (e.g., [Exodus 25:23-30](/exodus/25-23 "Exodus 25:23-30 - The Table for Showbread") for the table and [Exodus 30:1-10](/exodus/30-1 "Exodus 30:1-10 - The Altar of Incense") for the altar of incense) to a permanent, magnificent structure, ensuring the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel. Thirdly, the mention of the shewbread points to **God's Faithful Provision and Presence**, symbolizing His perpetual sustenance for His people and His constant, abiding presence among them, a theme echoed throughout the Pentateuch (e.g., [Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Law of the Shewbread")). Finally, the verse underscores the **Sacredness and Holiness of Worship**, as the golden altar for incense and the table for the shewbread were set apart for specific, holy functions within the Holy Place, distinct from the more public rituals in the outer court, thereby reinforcing the sanctity of God's presence and the rituals performed before Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Vessels (Hebrew, _kelim'_):** This term is a broad descriptor for all the implements, utensils, and furnishings used in the Temple. Its comprehensive nature ("all the vessels") indicates that Solomon's work was thorough and complete, leaving no detail overlooked in the equipping of the House of the LORD. The transition from general "vessels" to specific, highly significant items ("altar of gold," "table of gold") highlights the importance of these particular pieces.
* **Altar of Gold (Hebrew, _mizbeach zahav'_):** This refers to the Altar of Incense, located in the Holy Place, directly before the veil separating it from the Most Holy Place (cf. [Exodus 30:1-6](/exodus/30-1 "Exodus 30:1-6 - The Altar of Incense")). Its golden construction distinguished it from the larger bronze altar of burnt offering in the outer court ([Exodus 27:1-8](/exodus/27-1 "Exodus 27:1-8 - The Bronze Altar")). The burning of incense on this altar symbolized the prayers of the saints ascending to God, signifying purity, reverence, and continuous communion.
* **Shewbread (Hebrew, _lechem panim'_):** Literally meaning "bread of the face" or "bread of presence," the shewbread consisted of twelve loaves, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, which were perpetually set "before the face of the LORD" on the golden table (cf. [Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Law of the Shewbread")). This ritual symbolized God's constant provision for His people and His abiding presence among them, as well as Israel's perpetual offering and dependence on Him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Solomon made all the vessels that [pertained] unto the house of the LORD":** This opening clause establishes Solomon's role as the divinely appointed builder and furnisher of the Temple, fulfilling David's vision. The phrase "all the vessels" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of his work, indicating that every necessary implement for worship was meticulously crafted. The phrase "pertained unto the house of the LORD" highlights the sacred purpose and dedication of these items exclusively for divine service within God's dwelling place.
* **"the altar of gold":** This specifies one of the key golden items. As noted in the "Key Word Analysis," this is the Altar of Incense, a crucial fixture in the Holy Place. Its material, gold, signifies its immense value, purity, and sacredness, underscoring its proximity to the divine presence and its function in the offering of holy incense.
* **"and the table of gold, whereupon the shewbread [was]":** This identifies the second primary golden item. The table, also made of pure gold, served as the resting place for the shewbread. Its material reinforces the sanctity of the bread of presence, which symbolized God's continuous provision and His covenant relationship with the twelve tribes of Israel. The mention of the shewbread clarifies the table's specific, vital function in the Temple's daily rituals.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. **Merism** is evident in the phrase "all the vessels," which is then immediately followed by specific, highly important examples ("the altar of gold, and the table of gold"). This technique uses two contrasting or complementary parts to represent a whole, emphasizing both the totality of Solomon's work and the particular significance of these highlighted items. **Symbolism** is paramount throughout the verse, particularly through the pervasive use of **gold**. Gold universally symbolizes purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value. Its extensive use for these sacred vessels underscores the profound reverence, honor, and holiness attributed to God and His dwelling place. The **shewbread** itself is a powerful symbol of God's sustaining presence and provision for His people. Furthermore, the meticulous detail in this verse, and indeed throughout [1 Kings 7](/1_kings/7 "1 Kings 7 - The Furnishings of the Temple"), serves as a form of **Emphasis**, drawing the reader's attention to the unparalleled grandeur and sanctity of the Temple furnishings, reinforcing the idea that only the absolute best was fitting for the worship of the LORD.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 7:48 is not merely an architectural detail; it is deeply imbued with theological significance, connecting the physical structures and objects of worship to profound spiritual truths. The gold, the altar, and the shewbread collectively speak to God's inherent holiness, His desire for communion with humanity, and His faithful provision for His covenant people. The meticulous craftsmanship and precious materials underscore the principle that worship of the Almighty demands our very best, reflecting His supreme worth. These items, inherited in principle from the Tabernacle, also highlight the continuity of God's redemptive plan and His consistent nature across generations. They served as tangible reminders of intangible realities: God's presence, His sustenance, and the ascending prayers of His people. Ultimately, the earthly Temple and its furnishings were designed to point beyond themselves to a greater spiritual reality and a more perfect worship.

* [Exodus 25:23-30](/exodus/25-23 "Exodus 25:23-30 - The Table for Shewbread in the Tabernacle")
* [Exodus 30:1-10](/exodus/30-1 "Exodus 30:1-10 - The Altar of Incense in the Tabernacle")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Sanctuary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical Temple and its golden vessels no longer stand as the center of Christian worship, the principles embedded in 1 Kings 7:48 remain profoundly relevant for contemporary believers. The meticulous care and immense value placed on these items challenge us to consider the quality of our own worship and service to God. Do we offer Him our "gold"—our very best, our time, talents, and resources—or do we offer Him what is left over? The symbolism of the shewbread reminds us of God's constant, faithful provision in our lives, urging us to trust in His sustaining grace and to acknowledge Him as the source of all good things. The altar of incense, representing prayer, calls us to a life of continuous communion with God, recognizing that our prayers are precious and ascend to Him. Ultimately, these ancient furnishings invite us to cultivate a heart of reverence, intentionality, and deep appreciation for God's holy presence and His unwavering commitment to His people, inspiring us to live lives that reflect His glory in every aspect.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does the immense value and meticulous craftsmanship of the Temple furnishings teach us about the nature of true worship?**
* **How does the symbolism of the "shewbread" on the "table of gold" inform your understanding of God's provision in your daily life?**
* **In what ways can we, as New Testament believers, offer our "gold"—our best—to the LORD in our worship and service today?**
* **How do the physical elements of the Temple, like the altar and table, point to deeper spiritual realities about God's character and our relationship with Him?**

### FAQ
**Why is so much detail given to the Temple's furnishings in 1 Kings?**

Answer: The detailed descriptions of the Temple's construction and furnishings, as seen in [1 Kings 6-7](/1_kings/6-7 "1 Kings 6 & 7 - Building and Furnishing the Temple"), serve several crucial purposes. Firstly, they underscore the immense significance of the Temple as the dwelling place of the LORD, emphasizing its sanctity and unique role in Israel's covenant relationship with God. Secondly, the meticulous detail highlights the fulfillment of divine commands and patterns given previously for the Tabernacle (e.g., [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle")), demonstrating continuity and obedience. Thirdly, the grandeur and wealth displayed reflect the glory and majesty of God, for whom only the finest was deemed appropriate. Finally, these descriptions serve as a historical record, preserving the memory of this pivotal structure that stood for centuries as the center of Israelite worship and national identity.

**What is the significance of "gold" for these specific items?**

Answer: The use of gold for the altar of incense and the table of shewbread, as mentioned in [1 Kings 7:48](/1_kings/7-48 "1 Kings 7:48 - Golden Vessels of the Temple"), is highly significant. Gold, throughout the ancient Near East and biblical tradition, symbolized purity, divinity, royalty, and immense value. Its application to these particular items within the Holy Place, the inner sanctum of the Temple (closer to the Holy of Holies), emphasized their extreme sacredness and their direct association with God's holy presence. Unlike the bronze items in the outer court, which were for more public and sacrificial functions, the golden vessels were used for rituals of communion, intercession, and sustained presence, signifying their elevated status and the preciousness of the acts performed upon them.

**Was this the only altar in the Temple?**

Answer: No, the "altar of gold" mentioned in [1 Kings 7:48](/1_kings/7-48 "1 Kings 7:48 - The Golden Altar") refers specifically to the Altar of Incense, which was located in the Holy Place within the Temple building. This altar was made of wood overlaid with gold (as per [Exodus 30:1-3](/exodus/30-1 "Exodus 30:1-3 - The Altar of Incense")). In contrast, there was a much larger, bronze altar of burnt offering (also known as the great altar or the brazen altar) located in the outer court, in front of the Temple entrance (described in [1 Kings 8:64](/1_kings/8-64 "1 Kings 8:64 - Solomon's Dedication Sacrifice") and [2 Chronicles 4:1](/2_chronicles/4-1 "2 Chronicles 4:1 - The Bronze Altar")). This bronze altar was used for animal sacrifices and burnt offerings, while the golden altar of incense was used exclusively for burning fragrant incense, symbolizing prayers ascending to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous detail of the Temple's golden furnishings in [1 Kings 7:48](/1_kings/7-48 "1 Kings 7:48 - Golden Vessels of the Temple") finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The earthly Temple, with its sacred spaces and holy objects, was always a shadow pointing to a greater reality, and Christ is that reality. Just as the Temple was the dwelling place of God's presence, Jesus declared Himself to be the true Temple, stating, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up, speaking of the temple of his body](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus and the Temple")" ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")). The golden table with the shewbread, symbolizing God's faithful provision and presence, is perfectly fulfilled in Christ, who proclaimed, "[I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). He is the true spiritual sustenance for His people, offering eternal life and satisfying our deepest longings. Furthermore, the golden altar of incense, representing the prayers of the saints ascending to God, is fulfilled in Christ's perfect intercession. He is our great High Priest, who "[always lives to intercede for them](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Intercession")" ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Intercession")), offering up not merely symbolic incense but His own perfect sacrifice, which has "[purified our consciences from dead works to serve the living God](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")" ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Thus, the physical, golden vessels of Solomon's Temple beautifully foreshadowed the spiritual realities and the perfect, complete work accomplished by Christ, who is our ultimate access to God's presence and our eternal provision.

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

Exodus 37:10

¶ And he made the table [of] shittim wood: two cubits [was] the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof:

Exodus 37:16

And he made the vessels which [were] upon the table, his dishes, and his spoons, and his bowls, and his covers to cover withal, [of] pure gold.

2 Chronicles 4:8

He made also ten tables, and placed [them] in the temple, five on the right side, and five on the left. And he made an hundred basons of gold.

Exodus 39:36

The table, [and] all the vessels thereof, and the shewbread,

1 Corinthians 10:21

Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Ezekiel 44:16

They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge.

Malachi 1:12

But ye have profaned it, in that ye say, The table of the LORD [is] polluted; and the fruit thereof, [even] his meat, [is] contemptible.