2 Chronicles 4:14

KJV

He made also bases, and lavers made he upon the bases;

KJV (with Strong's)

He made {H6213} also bases {H4350}, and lavers {H3595} made {H6213} he upon the bases {H4350};

Complete Jewish Bible

He also made the trolleys, the basins on the trolleys,

Berean Standard Bible

the stands; the basins on the stands;

American Standard Version

He made also the bases, and the lavers made he upon the bases;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 4:14 meticulously details the construction of ten bronze bases and their corresponding lavers for Solomon's Temple. These elaborate furnishings, crafted by Huram-abi, were integral to the Temple's ritual functions, specifically designed for the priests to wash the burnt offerings, thereby underscoring the paramount importance of purity and meticulous preparation in the worship of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a comprehensive account of the construction and furnishing of Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, specifically within [2 Chronicles chapter 4](/2_chronicles/4 "2 Chronicles 4 - Temple Furnishings"). Preceding this verse, the text describes the grand "Molten Sea" (or bronze laver) in [2 Chronicles 4:2-6](/2_chronicles/4-2-6 "2 Chronicles 4:2-6 - The Molten Sea and its Purpose"), a massive basin for priestly ablutions. Following that, 2 Chronicles 4:14 shifts focus to the ten smaller, mobile lavers and their intricate bases, which served a distinct purpose. The Chronicler's detailed enumeration of these items, emphasizing their material (bronze) and the unparalleled craftsmanship of Huram-abi (a master artisan from Tyre, commissioned by Solomon as noted in [2 Chronicles 2:13-14](/2_chronicles/2-13-14 "2 Chronicles 2:13-14 - Huram-abi's Commission")), highlights the scale and splendor of God's dwelling place. This section, along with the architectural details in [2 Chronicles chapter 3](/2_chronicles/3 "2 Chronicles 3 - Temple Construction"), meticulously outlines the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, leading up to the Temple's dedication in [2 Chronicles chapter 5](/2_chronicles/5 "2 Chronicles 5 - The Ark Brought to the Temple").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of Solomon's Temple marked a pivotal moment in Israelite history, establishing a permanent, central sanctuary after centuries of the portable Tabernacle. This era, during Solomon's reign, was characterized by unprecedented wealth, peace, and international standing for Israel, enabling the commissioning of such an elaborate and costly edifice. The extensive use of bronze, a durable and valuable metal, and the engagement of skilled Phoenician artisans like Huram-abi, reflect the advanced metallurgical techniques prevalent in the ancient Near East. Ritual purity was an absolute prerequisite in Israelite worship, a concept deeply rooted in the Mosaic Law, which mandated specific cleansing rituals for priests and the meticulous preparation of sacrifices. The Temple's furnishings, therefore, were not merely decorative but profoundly functional, designed to facilitate strict adherence to divine commands regarding holiness and separation, ensuring that all aspects of worship were conducted in a manner pleasing to God.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous description of the bases and lavers significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Purity and Sanctification**, as these vessels were indispensable for the ritual cleansing required of both priests and offerings before they could approach God or be presented on the altar. This echoes the Tabernacle's laver, whose purpose is outlined in [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18-21 "Exodus 30:18-21 - The Laver for Washing"). Secondly, the detailed craftsmanship and extensive inventory emphasize the theme of **Divine Order and Meticulous Detail** in worship. God's instructions for His sanctuary were precise, demonstrating His demand for excellence and reverence in all aspects of service, reflecting His own holiness and majesty. Finally, the sheer scale and opulence of these bronze items, requiring vast resources and skilled labor, testify to **Solomon's Wisdom and Wealth**, divinely granted as seen in [1 Kings 4:29](/1_kings/4-29 "1 Kings 4:29 - Solomon's Wisdom"). The Temple itself, and its furnishings, stood as a testament to Israel's prosperity under God's blessing and their unwavering devotion to the Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **made (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** This primitive root signifies to "do" or "make" in its broadest sense, encompassing accomplishment, fashioning, and execution. In this context, it highlights the active creation and skilled craftsmanship of Huram-abi in constructing these complex Temple furnishings, emphasizing the deliberate and intentional nature of their production.
* **bases (Hebrew, _mᵉkôwnâh'_):** Derived from a word meaning "spot" or "place," this term refers to a "pedestal" or "base." As described in [1 Kings 7:27-39](/1_kings/7-27-39 "1 Kings 7:27-39 - Detailed Description of the Bases"), these were not simple stands but highly elaborate, often wheeled structures designed to support the lavers. Their intricate design, featuring carved lions, oxen, cherubim, and complex wheel mechanisms, speaks to their functional utility (potential mobility) and their aesthetic grandeur, befitting the sacred space of the Temple.
* **lavers (Hebrew, _kîyôwr'_):** This word, related to a root meaning "something round" or "excavated," denotes a "washbowl" or "caldron." In the context of the Temple, these were large bronze basins, ten in number, that rested upon the aforementioned bases. Unlike the massive "Molten Sea" (mentioned in [2 Chronicles 4:2-6](/2_chronicles/4-2-6 "2 Chronicles 4:2-6 - The Molten Sea")), these ten smaller lavers were specifically designated for washing the burnt offerings, ensuring the ritual purity of the sacrifices before their presentation on the altar.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He made also bases":** This clause identifies the subject as Huram-abi, the master craftsman, and the object of his creation: the "bases." These were the ornate, wheeled stands, meticulously designed not only for their functional purpose of supporting the lavers but also to contribute to the overall splendor and sanctity of the Temple. Their construction reflects the highest level of craftsmanship available at the time.
* **"and lavers made he upon the bases;":** This second clause specifies the placement and relationship of the "lavers" (bronze basins) to the "bases." The lavers were positioned directly atop these intricate stands, indicating a complete and integrated system for ritual washing. This arrangement facilitated their primary use for cleansing the sacrificial animals, underscoring the meticulous preparation and ritual purity required for acceptable worship and offerings within the Temple precincts.

#### Literary Devices
Though concise, 2 Chronicles 4:14 effectively employs several literary techniques. **Enumeration** is implicitly used by referencing these specific items, which are part of a larger list of Temple furnishings detailed throughout [2 Chronicles chapter 4](/2_chronicles/4 "2 Chronicles 4 - Temple Furnishings"), conveying the comprehensive nature of the Temple's outfitting. The verse also utilizes **Metonymy**, where "bases" and "lavers" stand in for the broader system of ritual purification they enabled. Furthermore, the objects themselves carry significant **Symbolism**: the lavers, containing water for washing, symbolize purification and cleansing, which were absolutely essential for approaching a holy God. The bronze material, often associated with strength, durability, and even judgment in biblical contexts, adds another layer of symbolic weight to these functional elements within the sacred space.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The bases and lavers, though physical components of the Temple, carried profound theological significance. Their primary function was to facilitate ritual purity, ensuring that both priests and offerings were ceremonially clean before entering God's presence or being presented on the altar. This pervasive emphasis on external cleansing pointed to a deeper spiritual truth: God is utterly holy, and those who approach Him must do so with reverence and purity of heart. The meticulous detail in their construction reflects God's demand for excellence and order in worship, indicating that our service to Him should be offered with the utmost care, intentionality, and devotion. This Old Testament emphasis on external purification foreshadows the New Testament's focus on inner transformation and the spiritual cleansing necessary for true worship, which is made possible through Christ.

* [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18-21 "Exodus 30:18-21 - The Laver for Washing in the Tabernacle")
* [Psalm 24:3-4](/psalms/24-3-4 "Psalm 24:3-4 - Who May Ascend the Hill of the Lord?")
* [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Most Holy Place")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of the Temple's furnishings, including the bases and lavers, serves as a powerful reminder that our approach to God is not to be taken lightly. Just as the priests of old needed to undergo ritual cleansing to perform their duties, believers today are called to approach God with a prepared heart, continually seeking spiritual purification. This involves a conscious turning away from sin, repentance, and a reliance on the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice. The meticulous craftsmanship of these items also challenges us to consider the quality of our own worship and service; God deserves our very best, offered with intentionality and excellence, not out of obligation but out of profound love and reverence for His holiness. Our "worship" extends beyond formal gatherings to every aspect of our lives, calling us to live in a manner that reflects His purity, glory, and the transformative power of His grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on ritual purity in the Temple challenge my understanding of spiritual purity in my own life and daily walk with God?**
* **In what practical ways can I "prepare" myself spiritually before engaging in worship, prayer, service, or making significant decisions?**
* **What does the meticulous detail and craftsmanship of the Temple furnishings teach me about the value God places on excellence and intentionality in all our offerings and service to Him?**

### FAQ
**What was the difference between the "Molten Sea" and these "lavers"?**

Answer: The "Molten Sea" (also known as the Bronze Sea), described in [2 Chronicles 4:2-6](/2_chronicles/4-2-6 "2 Chronicles 4:2-6 - The Molten Sea"), was a single, massive bronze basin primarily used by the priests for washing themselves. In contrast, the "lavers" mentioned in [2 Chronicles 4:14](/2_chronicles/4-14 "2 Chronicles 4:14 - Bases and Lavers") were ten smaller, mobile basins, each placed on an elaborate wheeled base. These ten lavers were specifically used for washing the burnt offerings before they were presented on the altar, ensuring the ritual purity of the sacrifices.

**Why were the "bases" so elaborate and wheeled?**

Answer: The "bases" were indeed highly elaborate, as detailed in [1 Kings 7:27-39](/1_kings/7-27-39 "1 Kings 7:27-39 - Detailed Description of the Bases"), featuring intricate carvings of lions, oxen, cherubim, and complex wheel mechanisms. Their elaborate design reflected the immense wealth and artistic skill dedicated to the Temple, emphasizing the glory and majesty of God. The wheels likely allowed the lavers to be moved to various locations within the Temple courts as needed for the priests' duties, providing flexibility in handling the numerous sacrifices and maintaining ritual order.

**Does 2 Chronicles 4:14 have relevance for Christians today?**

Answer: Absolutely. While the physical Temple and its rituals are no longer central to Christian worship, the principles behind the lavers remain profoundly relevant. They symbolize the **necessity of purity** for approaching God, which for Christians is found not in ritual washing but in the spiritual cleansing provided by Jesus Christ. They also highlight the importance of **preparation for worship** and offering our best to God in all areas of life, reflecting His demand for **excellence and reverence** in our service. The physical cleansing foreshadows the ultimate spiritual purification available through faith in Christ, making us fit to stand in His holy presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The bases and lavers of Solomon's Temple, with their profound emphasis on ritual cleansing and meticulous preparation for worship, find their ultimate and complete fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The physical washing with water, which was necessary for the Old Covenant priests and offerings, perfectly prefigured the complete and eternal purification accomplished by the shedding of Christ's precious blood. He is the true and perfect sacrifice, whose one offering has forever perfected those who are being sanctified ([Hebrews 10:14](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's One Sacrifice Perfects")). Through faith in Him, believers are cleansed from all sin ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by Christ's Blood")) and are granted direct, confident access to God's holy presence, no longer needing ceremonial washings or a mediating earthly priesthood ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")). Christ Himself is the new and living way ([Hebrews 10:20](/hebrews/10-20 "Hebrews 10:20 - The New and Living Way")), making every believer a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) called to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Him. Thus, the lavers point beyond their earthly function to the Lamb of God who truly takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), providing ultimate and eternal cleansing.

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 7:27

And he made ten bases of brass; four cubits [was] the length of one base, and four cubits the breadth thereof, and three cubits the height of it.

1 Kings 7:43

And the ten bases, and ten lavers on the bases;