1 Kings 7:18

And he made the pillars, and two rows round about upon the one network, to cover the chapiters that [were] upon the top, with pomegranates: and so did he for the other chapiter.

And he made {H6213} the pillars {H5982}, and two {H8147} rows {H2905} round about {H5439} upon the one {H259} network {H7639}, to cover {H3680} the chapiters {H3805} that were upon the top {H7218}, with pomegranates {H7416}: and so did {H6213} he for the other {H8145} chapiter {H3805}.

When he made the columns, he made two rows of pomegranates to put at the top of each column around the netting covering its capital.

Likewise, he made the pillars with two rows of pomegranates around each grating to cover each capital atop the pillars.

So he made the pillars; and there were two rows round about upon the one network, to cover the capitals that were upon the top of the pillars: and so did he for the other capital.

Commentary

1 Kings 7:18 is part of a detailed account of the construction of Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, specifically focusing on the intricate decorative elements of the two colossal bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, that stood at the Temple's porch.

Context

This verse describes the ornamentation of the "chapiters" (or capitals) of the two massive bronze pillars cast by Hiram of Tyre for King Solomon's Temple. The preceding verses (1 Kings 7:15-17) detail the casting and dimensions of these pillars, which were named Jachin and Boaz (as revealed in 1 Kings 7:21). The Temple itself was the central place of worship for ancient Israel, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people.

Key Themes

  • Divine Detail and Excellence: The meticulous description of the pomegranates and network highlights the extraordinary care and precision invested in the Temple's construction. This reflects the belief that God deserves the very best in craftsmanship and beauty.
  • Symbolism of Pomegranates: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, pomegranates were widely recognized symbols of fertility, abundance, prosperity, and blessing due to their numerous seeds and rich, vibrant color. Their presence on the sacred Temple pillars suggests the fruitfulness and blessings associated with God's presence and covenant with Israel. This symbolism also appears in the priestly garments of the high priest, further emphasizing their sacred significance.
  • Architectural Grandeur: The intricate "network" (lattice-work or chain-work) and the "two rows round about" of pomegranates speak to the elaborate and majestic design of Solomon's Temple, distinguishing it as a structure of unparalleled beauty and spiritual importance.

Linguistic Insights

The term "chapiters" refers to the decorative crowns or tops of the pillars. The "network" describes a pattern of interwoven chains or lattice-work that adorned these capitals. The Hebrew word for pomegranates, rimmonim, consistently refers to this fruit throughout the Old Testament, maintaining its symbolic association with abundance and life.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that God appreciates excellence and beauty in our service to Him. While we no longer build physical temples in the same way, the principle remains: we should offer our best in all areas of life, whether in our work, our relationships, or our spiritual disciplines. The symbolism of the pomegranates can also encourage us to seek a life that is fruitful and abundant in good works, reflecting the blessings of God's presence in our lives, just as the Temple's pillars were adorned with symbols of prosperity.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:24 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt put the two wreathen [chains] of gold in the two rings [which are] on the ends of the breastplate.

  • Exodus 28:25 (2 votes)

    And [the other] two ends of the two wreathen [chains] thou shalt fasten in the two ouches, and put [them] on the shoulderpieces of the ephod before it.

  • 2 Kings 25:17 (2 votes)

    The height of the one pillar [was] eighteen cubits, and the chapiter upon it [was] brass: and the height of the chapiter three cubits; and the wreathen work, and pomegranates upon the chapiter round about, all of brass: and like unto these had the second pillar with wreathen work.

  • Exodus 28:14 (2 votes)

    And two chains [of] pure gold at the ends; [of] wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten the wreathen chains to the ouches.

  • Exodus 39:15 (2 votes)

    And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, [of] wreathen work [of] pure gold.

  • Exodus 39:18 (2 votes)

    And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.

  • Exodus 28:22 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends [of] wreathen work [of] pure gold.