2 Chronicles 3:10

KJV

¶ And in the most holy house he made two cherubims of image work, and overlaid them with gold.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in the most {H6944} holy {H6944} house {H1004} he made {H6213} two {H8147} cherubims {H3742} of image {H6816} work {H4639}, and overlaid {H6823} them with gold {H2091}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Inside the Especially Holy Place he made two k'ruvim of cast metal, and they overlaid them with gold.

Berean Standard Bible

In the Most Holy Place he made two cherubim of sculptured work, and he overlaid them with gold.

American Standard Version

And in the most holy house he made two cherubim of image work; and they overlaid them with gold.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 3:10 details the construction of two magnificent cherubim within the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple, the innermost sanctuary. These meticulously crafted figures, overlaid with pure gold, served not merely as decoration but as profound symbols of God's majestic presence, His divine throne, and the sacred guardianship of His dwelling among His people. Their creation underscores the immense reverence, opulence, and theological significance invested in the Temple as the central place of worship and the earthly representation of God's glory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Chronicles 3:10 is situated within a larger narrative (2 Chronicles 2-5) that meticulously describes the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. Chapter 3 specifically focuses on the dimensions, materials, and key features of the Temple structure itself, following the preparations for building (Chapter 2) and preceding the dedication and the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant into the Holy of Holies (Chapters 5-7). This verse, by detailing the cherubim in the "most holy house," highlights the pinnacle of sacred craftsmanship within the Temple, emphasizing the sanctity and divine purpose of the innermost sanctuary, which was designed to house the Ark of the Covenant and represent the very presence of God. The description here echoes the earlier account in [1 Kings 6:23-28](/1_kings/6-23 "1 Kings 6:23-28 - Cherubim in Solomon's Temple"), affirming the consistent divine pattern for God's dwelling place.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Solomon's construction of the Temple marked a significant epoch in Israelite history, transitioning from the portable Tabernacle to a permanent, magnificent dwelling for God's presence. This period was the zenith of Israel's power and wealth, enabling such an ambitious and costly undertaking. Culturally, the cherubim were not unique to Israel; similar winged figures appeared in ancient Near Eastern iconography, often guarding sacred sites or associated with divine thrones. However, in Israelite theology, these "image work" figures were not idols to be worshipped but symbolic representations of celestial beings associated with God's glory and presence, distinct from pagan deities. The use of vast quantities of gold for overlaying these figures, as well as other Temple elements, reflected the immense value, purity, and reverence attributed to God and His dwelling place, aligning with the cultural understanding of precious metals signifying divine majesty and royalty.
* **Key Themes:** The creation of the cherubim in the Most Holy Place contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully conveys the theme of **Divine Presence and Holiness**. The cherubim consistently appear in scripture guarding sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden after the fall ([Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life")), and are intimately associated with God's throne and glory, as seen in the visions of [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Vision of God's Throne"). Their placement in the Holy of Holies underscored the extreme sanctity of this chamber, where God's presence was uniquely manifested. Secondly, the theme of **Magnificence and Reverence** is evident in the description of "image work" and being "overlaid with gold." This speaks to the unparalleled craftsmanship, beauty, and immense value invested in these figures, reflecting the incomparable glory and reverence due to the God of Israel. This opulence underscored the Temple's role as the central place of worship and the seat of divine authority. Finally, the construction of these cherubim also highlights the **Continuity of Sacred Design**. Solomon's Temple, including these cherubim, followed divine instructions and patterns established centuries earlier for the wilderness Tabernacle, particularly the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant's mercy seat ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")). This continuity reinforced the unchanging nature of God's relationship with His people and the consistent principles of worship, even as the temporary Tabernacle was replaced by a permanent, grander structure.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cherubims (Hebrew, כְּרוּבִים, _k'ruvim'_):** The plural form of "cherub," these are not the chubby, winged infants often depicted in later art, but powerful, majestic, and often fearsome celestial beings. In biblical theology, cherubim are associated with God's glory, His throne (often described as His "chariot-throne"), and the guardianship of sacred spaces and the divine presence. They are seen in the Garden of Eden ([Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life")), on the mercy seat of the Ark ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")), and prominently in Ezekiel's visions as bearers of God's throne ([Ezekiel 1:4-28](/ezekiel/1-4 "Ezekiel 1:4-28 - Vision of Cherubim and God's Throne")). Their presence in the Most Holy Place signified the immediate, awesome presence of God.
* **Most Holy House (Hebrew, דְּבִיר, _devir'_):** This term specifically refers to the innermost sanctuary of the Temple, known as the Holy of Holies. It was the most sacred chamber, separated from the Holy Place by a veil, and accessible only to the High Priest, and even then, only once a year on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16:2](/leviticus/16-2 "Leviticus 16:2 - High Priest's Access to the Most Holy Place")). The "most holy house" was the designated dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing the very presence of Yahweh among His people.
* **Image work (Hebrew, מַעֲשֵׂה צַעֲצֻעִים, _ma'aseh tza'atza'im'_):** This phrase describes the method of creation, indicating that the cherubim were sculpted or carved figures, not merely flat engravings or paintings. The term implies skilled craftsmanship and three-dimensional form, emphasizing the substantial and impressive nature of these sacred objects. It is important to distinguish "image work" in this context from idolatry; these were not objects of worship themselves, but artistic representations designed to enhance the sacred atmosphere and symbolize divine realities.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in the most holy house":** This phrase immediately establishes the location of the cherubim as the innermost and most sacred chamber of the Temple, the Holy of Holies. This setting underscores the profound sanctity and exclusivity of the space, emphasizing that these figures were placed in the very heart of God's earthly dwelling.
* **"he made two cherubims":** "He" refers to King Solomon, acting under divine instruction and fulfilling his father David's vision. The number "two" is consistent with the cherubim on the Ark's mercy seat (Exodus 25:18-22) and the larger cherubim described in 1 Kings 6:23-28. These were not random additions but integral components of the divinely ordained Temple design, symbolizing God's dual presence or perhaps His comprehensive guardianship.
* **"of image work":** This specifies that the cherubim were not flat representations but three-dimensional, sculpted figures. This detail highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and the substantial, tangible nature of these sacred objects, indicating a high level of artistry and material investment in their creation.
* **"and overlaid them with gold":** The final clause emphasizes the preciousness and purity of the materials used. Gold, a metal associated with divinity, royalty, and incorruptibility, signified the immense value and glory attributed to the divine presence that the cherubim symbolized. This opulence underscored the unparalleled majesty of God and the reverence due to Him in His dwelling place.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the cherubim themselves serving as potent symbols of divine presence, guardianship, and the very throne of God. Their placement within the Most Holy Place, coupled with the use of **gold**, further enhances this symbolism, with gold representing purity, glory, and the divine nature. The description of "image work" implies **craftsmanship** and **magnificence**, highlighting the immense effort and precious resources dedicated to God's dwelling, thus reflecting His supreme worth. Furthermore, the verse functions as an **echo** or **allusion** to earlier biblical accounts, particularly the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")), reinforcing the continuity of divine design and the unchanging nature of God's sacred presence. The detailed, almost architectural, language also contributes to a sense of **verisimilitude**, making the Temple's grandeur tangible to the reader.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The construction of the cherubim in the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple is deeply significant, underscoring God's desire to dwell among His people and the sacredness of that dwelling. These figures were not merely decorative but served as powerful symbols of God's majestic presence, His throne, and His guardianship of the divine realm. Their placement in the innermost sanctuary, where the Ark of the Covenant rested, emphasized the unparalleled holiness of the space and the awe-inspiring nature of encountering the Living God. This act of building and adorning the Temple with such precious elements reflects the people's reverence for Yahweh and their understanding of His transcendence and immanence—that He is both utterly distinct and yet chooses to make His presence known among humanity. The continuity of the cherubim's presence from the Tabernacle to the Temple also speaks to the unchanging nature of God's covenant relationship and the enduring principles of worship.

* [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")
* [1 Kings 6:23-28](/1_kings/6-23 "1 Kings 6:23-28 - Cherubim in Solomon's Temple")
* [Ezekiel 10:1-22](/ezekiel/10-1 "Ezekiel 10:1-22 - Cherubim and God's Glory Departing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Chronicles 3:10, with its description of the cherubim in the Most Holy Place, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. While the physical Temple no longer stands, its meticulously designed and richly adorned sanctuary serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness, His desire for a dwelling place among His people, and the reverence due to Him. The New Testament reveals that, through Christ, believers collectively become the "temple of God" ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - Believers as God's Temple")) and individual bodies are "temples of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). This shifts the focus from a physical structure to a spiritual reality, where God's presence now dwells within His followers. The immense value and holiness attributed to the Temple should inspire us to live lives that honor God's indwelling presence, striving for purity, reverence, and a profound sense of awe in our worship and daily conduct. Our lives, as God's spiritual temple, should reflect His glory and be set apart for His purposes, just as the physical Temple was.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail and preciousness of the Temple's construction, particularly the cherubim, inform our understanding of God's holiness and glory today?**
* **In what ways do we, as the spiritual temple of God, reflect His presence and holiness in our daily lives and interactions with others?**
* **What does the concept of God dwelling among His people, as symbolized by the cherubim in the Holy of Holies, mean for our personal relationship with Him and our corporate worship?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of the cherubim in the Temple?**

Answer: The cherubim in the Temple were not merely decorative elements but held profound theological and symbolic significance. They represented powerful, majestic celestial beings intimately associated with God's glory, His divine throne, and His immediate presence. Their primary purpose was to symbolize the guardianship of sacred space and the awe-inspiring holiness of God. In the context of the Holy of Holies, they served as a visual representation of God's throne room, where His presence was uniquely manifested above the Ark of the Covenant. They echoed the cherubim guarding the way to the tree of life in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim guarding Eden") and the cherubim seen in visions surrounding God's throne, as described in [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Vision of God's Throne"). Their presence underscored the sanctity of the divine dwelling and the reverence due to the God of Israel.

**Were these cherubim the same as those on the Ark of the Covenant?**

Answer: No, the cherubim described in [2 Chronicles 3:10](/2_chronicles/3-10 "2 Chronicles 3:10 - Cherubim in the Holy of Holies") were distinct from the cherubim that were part of the Ark of the Covenant itself. The Ark had two smaller, hammered gold cherubim, integral to its mercy seat, facing each other with their wings overshadowing the atonement cover ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")). The cherubim in 2 Chronicles 3:10 (and [1 Kings 6:23-28](/1_kings/6-23 "1 Kings 6:23-28 - Cherubim in Solomon's Temple")) were much larger, standing figures within the Holy of Holies, crafted from olive wood and overlaid with gold. These colossal cherubim stood on the floor of the sanctuary, with their wings outstretched, covering the space where the Ark of the Covenant would be placed. While both sets of cherubim symbolized God's presence and throne, the Temple cherubim were grander, permanent fixtures that physically overshadowed the Ark, further emphasizing its sacredness and God's overarching glory within His dwelling.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The cherubim in the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple, guarding the very presence of God, powerfully foreshadow the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Temple was the physical dwelling place of God among His people, Jesus is the ultimate and true dwelling of God, the Word made flesh who "dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The cherubim, by their very presence, signified the holiness and inaccessibility of God's immediate presence to sinful humanity; only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies once a year. However, in Christ, this barrier is removed. Jesus is our great High Priest who, through His own blood, entered the true Holy of Holies—heaven itself—not just once a year, but "once for all" ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, Our High Priest")). He has opened "a new and living way" for us to draw near to God ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ")). The elaborate Temple, with its cherubim and gold, pointed to the glory of God, but in Christ, we see the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")). Furthermore, the New Testament teaches that believers, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, collectively form the "temple of God" ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - Believers as God's Temple")) and are being "built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit" ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - God's Dwelling Through the Spirit")). Thus, the cherubim, guarding a physical space, are fulfilled in Christ who, by His sacrifice, has brought God's presence out of a confined sanctuary and into the hearts of all who believe, making every believer a part of God's living, spiritual temple.

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 6:23

And within the oracle he made two cherubims [of] olive tree, [each] ten cubits high.

1 Kings 6:28

And he overlaid the cherubims with gold.

Exodus 25:18

And thou shalt make two cherubims [of] gold, [of] beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.