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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 2 Chronicles 3:10–17.
Here is an account of 1. The two cherubim, which were set up in the holy of holies. There were two already over the ark, which covered the mercy-seat with their wings; these were small ones. Now that the most holy place was enlarged, though these were continued (being appurtenances to the ark, which was not to be made new, as all the other utensils of the tabernacle were), yet those two large ones were added, doubtless by divine appointment, to fill up the holy place, which otherwise would have looked bare, like a room unfurnished. These cherubim are said to be of image-work (Ch2 3:10), designed, it is likely, to represent the angels who attend the divine Majesty. Each wing extended five cubits, so that the whole was twenty cubits (Ch2 3:12, Ch2 3:13), which was just the breadth of the most holy place, Ch2 3:8. They stood on their feet, as servants, their faces inward toward the ark (Ch2 3:13), that it might appear they were not set there to be adored (for then they would have been made sitting, as on a throne, and their faces towards their worshippers), but rather as themselves attendants on the invisible God. We must not worship angels, but we must worship with angels; for we have come into communion with them (Heb 12:22), and must do the will of God as the angels do it. The thought that we are worshipping him before whom the angels cover their faces will help to inspire us with reverence in all our approaches to God. Compare Co1 11:10 with Isa 6:2. 2. The veil that parted between the temple and the most holy place, Ch2 3:14. This denoted the darkness of that dispensation, and the distance which the worshippers were kept at; but, at the death of Christ, this veil was rent; for through him we are made nigh, and have boldness not only to look, but to enter, into the holiest. On this he was wrought cherubim. Heb. he caused them to ascend, that is, they were made in raised work, embossed. Or he made them on the wing in an ascending posture, as the other two that stood on their feet in an attending posture, to remind the worshippers to lift up their hearts, and to soar upwards in their devotions. 3. The two pillars which were set up before the temple. Both together were somewhat above thirty-five cubits in length (Ch2 3:15), about eighteen cubits high a-piece. See Kg1 7:15, etc., where we took a view of those pillars, Jachin and Boaz, establishment and strength in temple-work and by it.
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Summary
2 Chronicles 3:10 describes the meticulous construction of two magnificent cherubim within the Most Holy Place of Solomon's Temple, the innermost sanctuary. These figures, intricately crafted and lavishly overlaid with pure gold, were not merely decorative elements but served as profound theological symbols. Their presence underscored the divine majesty, the sacred guardianship of God's dwelling, and the awe-inspiring holiness of His immediate presence among His people, reflecting the immense reverence and opulence invested in the Temple as the central place of worship and the earthly representation of God's glory.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is an integral part of the broader narrative in 2 Chronicles 2-5, which meticulously details the ambitious undertaking of building Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. Chapter 3 specifically focuses on the architectural dimensions, choice materials, and key features of the Temple structure itself, following the extensive preparations for construction outlined in Chapter 2. The description of the cherubim in the "most holy house" in 2 Chronicles 3:10 highlights the pinnacle of sacred craftsmanship within the Temple, emphasizing the profound sanctity and divine purpose of the innermost sanctuary. This chamber was specifically designed to house the Ark of the Covenant and represent the very presence of God. The account here closely parallels the earlier description found in 1 Kings 6:23-28, affirming the consistent divine pattern for God's earthly dwelling place.
Historical & Cultural Context
King Solomon's construction of the Temple marked a pivotal era in Israelite history, signifying a transition from the portable Tabernacle to a permanent, grand dwelling for God's presence. This period represented the zenith of Israel's wealth and political influence, enabling such a monumental and costly architectural endeavor. Culturally, winged figures akin to cherubim were common in ancient Near Eastern iconography, often depicted guarding sacred sites or associated with divine thrones. However, within Israelite theology, these "image work" figures were strictly symbolic representations of celestial beings associated with God's glory and presence, fundamentally distinct from pagan idols. The lavish use of gold for overlaying these figures, as well as other Temple elements, communicated the immense value, purity, and reverence attributed to God and His dwelling place, aligning with the cultural understanding that precious metals signified divine majesty, royalty, and enduring worth.
Key Themes
The creation of the cherubim in the Most Holy Place significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully conveys the theme of Divine Presence and Holiness. Cherubim consistently appear in Scripture guarding sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden after the fall (Genesis 3:24), and are intimately associated with God's throne and glory, as vividly described in the visions of Ezekiel 1. 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 strikingly 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). This continuity reinforced the unchanging nature of God's covenant 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
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. The Strong's definition describes them as "a cherub or imaginary figure." In biblical theology, cherubim are consistently associated with God's glory, His divine throne (often described as His "chariot-throne"), and the guardianship of sacred spaces and the divine presence. They are seen guarding the way to the tree of life in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24), on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22), and prominently in Ezekiel's visions as bearers of God's throne (Ezekiel 1:4-28). Their presence in the Most Holy Place signified the immediate, awesome presence of God.
Derived from a root meaning "to build," this term broadly refers to a dwelling or structure, but in this context, it specifically denotes the Temple, God's sacred dwelling place. The Strong's definition includes "temple," which is its primary meaning here. When combined with "most holy" (from qôdesh, H6944), it refers to the innermost sanctuary of the Temple, known as the Holy of Holies. This 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). The "most holy house" was the designated dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing the very presence of Yahweh among His people.
From an unused root meaning "to shimmer," gold is described in the Strong's definition as "gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e. yellow), as oil, a clear sky." In the biblical context, gold is consistently associated with divinity, royalty, purity, and immense value. Its use in overlaying the cherubim and other Temple elements underscored the unparalleled majesty and glory attributed to God and His dwelling place. This precious metal symbolized the incorruptibility and divine nature of the presence it adorned, reflecting the highest possible honor and reverence.
Verse Breakdown
"And in the most holy house"
This opening phrase immediately establishes the precise location of these magnificent figures: the innermost and most sacred chamber of the Temple, the Holy of Holies. This setting emphatically underscores the profound sanctity, exclusivity, and divine significance of the space, indicating that these cherubim were placed at the very heart of God's earthly dwelling, where His presence was uniquely manifested.
"he made two cherubims"
"He" refers to King Solomon, who acted under direct divine instruction and fulfilled the vision initiated by his father, David. The specific 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 arbitrary additions but integral components of the divinely ordained Temple design, symbolizing God's comprehensive guardianship and the dual aspects of His majestic presence.
"of image work"
This phrase specifies the method of creation, indicating that the cherubim were not merely flat engravings or paintings but three-dimensional, sculpted figures. The Hebrew terms (tsaʻtsuaʻ H6816, "sculpture, image" and maʻăseh H4639, "an action... a product... work") imply skilled craftsmanship and substantial, tangible form, emphasizing the impressive and meticulously crafted nature of these sacred objects. It is crucial 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.
"and overlaid them with gold"
The final clause highlights the preciousness, purity, and glory of the materials used. Gold, a metal universally associated with divinity, royalty, and incorruptibility, signified the immense value and unparalleled glory attributed to the divine presence that the cherubim symbolized and guarded. This lavish opulence underscored the supreme majesty of God and the profound reverence due to Him in His dwelling place, reflecting the best of human artistry and resources offered back to the Creator.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound meaning and impact. Symbolism is paramount, with the cherubim themselves serving as potent symbols of divine presence, celestial guardianship, and the very throne of God. Their placement within the Most Holy Place, coupled with the lavish use of gold, further enhances this symbolism, with gold representing purity, glory, and the divine nature. The description of "image work" implies meticulous craftsmanship and magnificence, highlighting the immense effort and precious resources dedicated to God's dwelling, thereby reflecting His supreme worth and the reverence due to Him. 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), 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 and awe-inspiring 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 profound 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 from creation 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 and access to His presence.
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) and individual bodies are "temples of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19). 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
FAQ
What was the purpose of the cherubim in the Temple?
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 and the cherubim seen in visions surrounding God's throne, as described in Ezekiel 1. 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?
No, the cherubim described in 2 Chronicles 3:10 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). The cherubim in 2 Chronicles 3:10 (and 1 Kings 6:23-28) 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). 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). He has opened "a new and living way" for us to draw near to God (Hebrews 10:19-20). 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). Furthermore, the New Testament teaches that believers, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, collectively form the "temple of God" (1 Corinthians 3:16) and are being "built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit" (Ephesians 2:21-22). 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.