2 Chronicles 4:13

And four hundred pomegranates on the two wreaths; two rows of pomegranates on each wreath, to cover the two pommels of the chapiters which [were] upon the pillars.

And four {H702} hundred {H3967} pomegranates {H7416} on the two {H8147} wreaths {H7639}; two {H8147} rows {H2905} of pomegranates {H7416} on each {H259} wreath {H7639}, to cover {H3680} the two {H8147} pommels {H1543} of the chapiters {H3805} which were upon {H6440} the pillars {H5982}.

and 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.

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);

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

2 Chronicles 4:13 provides a vivid detail about the ornate craftsmanship involved in the construction of King Solomon’s magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. This verse specifically describes the decorative elements on the two grand pillars that stood at the entrance of the sanctuary.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in 2 Chronicles chapters 3 and 4, which meticulously recounts the building and furnishing of the First Temple. After describing the Temple's overall structure and its bronze altar, the narrative turns to the intricate details of the bronze work, particularly the two impressive pillars named Jachin and Boaz. These pillars were capped with "chapiters" (capitals), which were elaborate decorative tops. Verse 13 focuses on the specific ornamentation of these chapiters: four hundred pomegranates arranged in two rows on the "wreaths" (decorative chains or nets) covering the "pommels" (rounded, bowl-shaped tops) of the chapiters.

Key Themes

  • Divine Beauty and Detail: The sheer number (400) and meticulous arrangement of the pomegranates highlight the dedication to creating a structure of unparalleled beauty and grandeur for God's dwelling place. No detail was deemed too small or insignificant in the house of the Lord.
  • Symbolism of Pomegranates: In ancient Near Eastern and Israelite culture, pomegranates were powerful symbols of fertility, abundance, prosperity, and divine blessing. Their presence on the Temple pillars underscored the desire for fruitfulness and God's abundant provision associated with His presence. They also appeared on the hem of the High Priest's robe, connecting them to sacred service and representation.
  • Meticulous Craftsmanship: The detailed description of the pomegranates and their arrangement speaks to the exceptional skill of the artisans, especially Huram-abi, who executed Solomon's architectural and artistic vision. This reflects the principle of giving one's absolute best in service to God.

Linguistic Insights

  • The King James Version uses "pommels" and "chapiters" interchangeably with "capitals" in other translations. These refer to the decorative crowning elements atop the pillars.
  • "Wreaths" refers to the chain-like or braided ornamentation that adorned the capitals, from which the pomegranates hung.

Practical Application

While we no longer build physical temples in the same manner, the principles embedded in this verse remain profoundly relevant:

  • Excellence in Worship and Service: The meticulous detail and abundance of beauty in the Temple's construction remind us that God deserves our best. Whether in our spiritual devotion, the care of our places of worship, or our daily tasks, we are called to pursue excellence as an act of worship.
  • Attention to Detail: This verse encourages us to recognize that even seemingly small elements contribute to the overall beauty and integrity of a larger whole. In our faith walk, paying attention to "the little things" can have significant spiritual impact.
  • Understanding Symbolism: The rich symbolism of the pomegranates invites us to consider the deeper meanings and spiritual truths conveyed through biblical imagery and even the physical world around us.
  • Our Bodies as Temples: The dedication to building the Temple with such care foreshadows the New Testament teaching that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This calls us to honor God with our physical beings and our lives, treating them with reverence and intentionality.
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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

  • 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.

  • Exodus 28:33

    And [beneath] upon the hem of it thou shalt make pomegranates [of] blue, and [of] purple, and [of] scarlet, round about the hem thereof; and bells of gold between them round about:

  • Exodus 28:34

    A golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, upon the hem of the robe round about.

  • Jeremiah 52:23

    And there were ninety and six pomegranates on a side; [and] all the pomegranates upon the network [were] an hundred round about.

  • 1 Kings 7:42

    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;

  • Song Of Solomon 4:13

    Thy plants [are] an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard,
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