2 Chronicles 9:18

KJV

And [there were] six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, [which were] fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays:

KJV (with Strong's)

And there were six {H8337} steps {H4609} to the throne {H3678}, with a footstool {H3534} of gold {H2091}, which were fastened {H270} to the throne {H3678}, and stays {H3027} on each side of the sitting {H3427} place {H4725}, and two {H8147} lions {H738} standing {H5975} by {H681} the stays {H3027}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The throne had six steps and a gold footstool; these were fastened to the throne. There were arms on either side of the seat, two lions standing beside the arms,

Berean Standard Bible

The throne had six steps, and a footstool of gold was attached to it. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest.

American Standard Version

And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the stays.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 9:18 provides a meticulous description of King Solomon's unparalleled throne, detailing its six steps, a footstool of pure gold, sturdy armrests, and two lions guarding the sides. This verse, part of a larger account of Solomon's extraordinary wealth and wisdom, vividly portrays the opulence and symbolic power of his reign, reflecting the divine favor and prosperity bestowed upon him by God. The throne serves as a tangible representation of his supreme authority and the grandeur of his divinely-ordained kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a comprehensive account of King Solomon's splendor, particularly following the awe-struck visit of the Queen of Sheba (2 Chronicles 9:1-12). The detailed description of his throne, alongside his vast wealth and wisdom (2 Chronicles 9:13-28), serves to underscore the unprecedented glory of his reign, fulfilling God's promises of blessing. The Chronicler emphasizes Solomon's divinely-granted wisdom and prosperity, contrasting it with later kings who deviated from God's path. This detailed architectural and material description of the throne in 2 Chronicles 9:18-19 (paralleled in [1 Kings 10:18-20](/1_kings/10-18 "1 Kings 10:18-20 - Description of Solomon's Throne")) is meant to impress upon the reader the unparalleled majesty and stability of Solomon's kingdom at its zenith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, thrones were not merely seats but potent symbols of a monarch's power, justice, and divine right to rule. The use of precious materials like gold, as well as symbolic animal imagery such as lions, was common in royal iconography across Egypt, Mesopotamia, and other surrounding cultures. Solomon's throne, described with such lavish detail, would have communicated his immense wealth and political dominance to both his subjects and foreign dignitaries. The very act of ascending steps to approach the king's seat would have emphasized his elevated status and the reverence due to him as God's anointed ruler over Israel.
* **Key Themes:** The description of Solomon's throne contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Chronicles and the broader Solomonic narrative. It highlights the theme of **Divine Blessing and Prosperity**, showcasing God's faithfulness in elevating Solomon and Israel. It underscores **Wisdom and Justice**, as the throne was the seat from which Solomon dispensed his renowned judgments (e.g., [1 Kings 3:16-28](/1_kings/3-16 "1 Kings 3:16-28 - Solomon's Wisdom in Judgment")). The **Glory of Earthly Kingship** is vividly portrayed, yet subtly foreshadows its transient nature when compared to God's eternal dominion. Furthermore, the throne's symbolism of **Sovereignty and Authority** reinforces Solomon's role as God's chosen representative on earth, ruling over a unified and prosperous kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Steps (Hebrew, _ma'aleh'_):** This term denotes an ascent or stairway. In the context of a throne, it signifies elevation, majesty, and the hierarchical distance between the monarch and his subjects. The six steps suggest a deliberate and grand approach, emphasizing the king's supreme position and the reverence required to draw near.
* **Footstool (Hebrew, _qebes_):** A footstool, especially one made of gold, was a powerful symbol of dominion and subjugation in the ancient world. To place one's feet upon a footstool indicated rest and complete authority over a conquered foe or territory (cf. [Psalm 110:1](/psalms/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord's Footstool")). Here, it underscores Solomon's immense wealth and his sovereignty.
* **Stays (Hebrew, _yad_):** Literally meaning "hand" or "side," in this architectural context, _yad_ refers to the armrests or supports of the throne. Their presence indicates a substantial, well-crafted, and stable seat, befitting a king and emphasizing the solidity and permanence of his rule.
* **Lions (Hebrew, _'aryeh_):** Lions were universally recognized symbols of strength, royalty, courage, and justice in the ancient Near East. Their presence on Solomon's throne powerfully reinforced his image as a mighty, protective, and just ruler. They also connect to the tribal symbol of Judah, from which Solomon descended (cf. [Genesis 49:9](/genesis/49-9 "Genesis 49:9 - Judah, a Lion's Cub")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And [there were] six steps to the throne":** This detail highlights the impressive height and grandeur of the throne, requiring a deliberate ascent. The number six, while not explicitly given theological significance here, contributes to the sense of completeness and majesty, indicating a throne that stands above all others, physically elevating the king.
* **"with a footstool of gold, [which were] fastened to the throne":** The inclusion of a footstool made of solid gold emphasizes the unparalleled luxury and wealth of Solomon. The fact that it was "fastened to the throne" suggests it was an integral, permanent part of the royal seat, further solidifying its symbolic meaning of dominion and the king's unshakeable authority.
* **"and stays on each side of the sitting place":** These "stays" refer to the armrests, indicating a substantial and elaborate design. They provide comfort and support for the king, but also contribute to the throne's imposing presence, signifying stability and the king's firm grip on his reign.
* **"and two lions standing by the stays":** The lions are a crucial symbolic element. As powerful emblems of royalty, strength, and justice, their placement at the armrests signifies that these qualities are inherent to Solomon's rule. While this verse mentions two, the parallel account in [1 Kings 10:20](/1_kings/10-20 "1 Kings 10:20 - Twelve Lions on Solomon's Throne") describes a total of twelve lions, six on each side of the steps, further amplifying the king's formidable authority and the pervasive symbolism of his reign.

#### Literary Devices
The description of Solomon's throne in 2 Chronicles 9:18 is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid picture of opulence and power through specific details like "six steps," "footstool of gold," and "two lions." This visual language is designed to impress upon the reader the unparalleled grandeur of Solomon's reign. The entire throne serves as a powerful **Symbol** of Solomon's divinely-bestowed wisdom, wealth, and authority, as well as the peace and prosperity of his kingdom. The gold signifies purity, preciousness, and divine blessing, while the lions are potent symbols of strength, royalty, and justice, reinforcing the king's attributes. The cumulative effect of these detailed descriptions verges on **Hyperbole**, though presented as factual, to emphasize the extraordinary nature of Solomon's court, unparalleled by any other earthly king.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Solomon's throne, described with such meticulous detail and lavish materials, serves as a profound theological statement about the nature of divinely-ordained kingship and the blessings that flow from obedience to God. It reflects the idea that earthly authority, when exercised under God's wisdom and favor, can manifest a glory that hints at the divine. However, it also implicitly reminds us that even the most magnificent earthly throne is but a shadow of the eternal, unshakeable throne of God himself. The temporary nature of Solomon's reign, despite its initial splendor, contrasts sharply with the everlasting dominion of the Almighty. This throne, therefore, becomes a testament to both the potential for human glory under God and the ultimate supremacy of divine sovereignty.

* [Psalm 45:6](/psalms/45-6 "Psalm 45:6 - God's Throne Endures Forever")
* [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Eternal Throne")
* [Revelation 4:2](/revelation/4-2 "Revelation 4:2 - The Throne of God in Heaven")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Solomon's throne invites us to consider the nature of true authority and the source of lasting glory. While Solomon's reign was marked by extraordinary wealth and wisdom, his eventual moral failures remind us that earthly power, no matter how magnificent, is transient and susceptible to corruption. For us, this passage should inspire a deeper appreciation for God's ability to bless and elevate, but also a sober reflection on where our ultimate trust lies. Do we pursue earthly grandeur and recognition, or do we seek the wisdom and righteousness that emanate from God's eternal throne? The true King is not seated on a throne of gold, but on a throne of grace and truth, inviting us to draw near with confidence. This passage challenges us to use any influence or position we have, not for self-aggrandizement, but to reflect God's justice, wisdom, and compassion in a world desperately in need of His righteous rule.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the grandeur of Solomon's throne challenge or inform our understanding of earthly power and divine blessing?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, reflect the "justice" and "wisdom" symbolized by Solomon's throne in our own spheres of influence?**
* **How does focusing on the eternal throne of God reframe our pursuit of success or recognition in this world?**

### FAQ

**Why are there "six steps" mentioned, and is the number significant?**

Answer: While some might look for deep numerological significance in the "six steps," the primary purpose of this detail is to emphasize the extraordinary elevation and grandeur of Solomon's throne. It signifies that the king's seat was not merely a chair but a raised platform, requiring a deliberate ascent. This physical elevation underscored his supreme authority and majesty, distinguishing him from all others present. The six steps, along with the other luxurious details, contribute to the overall impression of unparalleled royal splendor, making Solomon's throne unique among all earthly kings, as stated in [2 Chronicles 9:19](/2_chronicles/9-19 "2 Chronicles 9:19 - No Such Throne in Any Kingdom").

**What is the significance of the "lions" on the throne?**

Answer: The lions on Solomon's throne are highly significant symbols. In the ancient Near East, lions were universally recognized as powerful emblems of strength, royalty, courage, and justice. Their presence on the throne reinforced Solomon's image as a formidable and just ruler, a protector of his people, and a king endowed with divine power. Furthermore, the lion is the tribal symbol of Judah, from which Solomon descended (see [Genesis 49:9](/genesis/49-9 "Genesis 49:9 - Judah is a Lion's Cub")). The parallel account in [1 Kings 10:20](/1_kings/10-20 "1 Kings 10:20 - Twelve Lions on Solomon's Throne") mentions a total of twelve lions, six on each side of the steps, further amplifying this powerful symbolism and suggesting a pervasive representation of royal might and divine favor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Solomon's magnificent throne, with its gold, steps, and lions, serves as a powerful type and shadow, pointing ultimately to the infinitely greater and eternal throne of Jesus Christ. While Solomon's reign was a golden age for Israel, marked by unparalleled wisdom and wealth, it was temporary and ultimately flawed due to his later disobedience. Jesus, the true Son of David, fulfills and surpasses all that Solomon's throne represented. He is the divine King whose throne is not of earthly gold but of eternal righteousness and justice (cf. [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - Christ's Eternal Throne")). The "six steps" to Solomon's throne hint at the necessary ascent to true authority, which in Christ is achieved through His perfect obedience and exaltation. The "footstool of gold" symbolizing dominion finds its ultimate reality in Christ, who has put all enemies under His feet (cf. [1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ Must Reign")). Most profoundly, the "two lions" guarding Solomon's throne foreshadow Jesus as the [Lion of the Tribe of Judah](/revelation/5-5 "Revelation 5:5 - Jesus, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah"), who alone is worthy to open the scroll and reign. His kingdom is not bound by earthly borders or material wealth but is a spiritual, everlasting dominion (cf. [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")), where He sits on the throne of God and the Lamb, bringing light, healing, and eternal life (cf. [Revelation 22:1-5](/revelation/22-1 "Revelation 22:1-5 - The Throne of God and the Lamb")).

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

Numbers 23:24

Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift up himself as a young lion: he shall not lie down until he eat [of] the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.

Numbers 24:9

He couched, he lay down as a lion, and as a great lion: who shall stir him up? Blessed [is] he that blesseth thee, and cursed [is] he that curseth thee.

Revelation 5:5

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

Genesis 49:9

Judah [is] a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?

Genesis 49:10

The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him [shall] the gathering of the people [be].