1 Kings 7:22

And upon the top of the pillars [was] lily work: so was the work of the pillars finished.

And upon the top {H7218} of the pillars {H5982} was lily {H7799} work {H4639}: so was the work {H4399} of the pillars {H5982} finished {H8552}.

On the tops of the columns were shapes like lilies; thus the work of the columns was finished.

And the tops of the pillars were shaped like lilies. So the work of the pillars was completed.

And upon the top of the pillars was lily-work: so was the work of the pillars finished.

Commentary

1 Kings 7:22 describes the final decorative elements on the two massive bronze pillars, Jachin and Boaz, that stood at the entrance to Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. This verse highlights the intricate beauty and meticulous craftsmanship involved in the construction of God's dwelling place.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in 1 Kings chapter 7, which meticulously describes the construction of Solomon's palace and, more importantly, the Temple and its elaborate furnishings. Following the general description of the Temple's structure in 1 Kings 6, this chapter focuses on the skilled work of Hiram of Tyre, a master craftsman who fashioned the bronze elements. Verses 15-21 specifically detail the two pillars, Jachin and Boaz, including their impressive height, circumference, and the intricate capitals (or chapiters) that adorned their tops. Verse 22 concludes this description by specifying the "lily work" that completed these prominent architectural features, signifying the final flourish on a monumental undertaking.

Key Themes

  • Divine Beauty and Excellence: The inclusion of "lily work" on the pillars underscores the value placed on beauty, artistry, and excellence in the worship of God. The Temple was not merely functional but a testament to divine glory, adorned with the finest materials and craftsmanship.
  • Symbolism of the Lily: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the lily (Hebrew: shoshan or shushan) was a symbol of purity, beauty, prosperity, and even divine favor. Its presence on the Temple pillars likely conveyed these ideas, pointing to the holiness and flourishing nature of God's presence. The lily also appears in other biblical contexts, such as in the Song of Solomon 2:1 and even in Jesus' teaching on God's provision for the lilies of the field in Matthew 6:28.
  • Completion and Perfection: The phrase "so was the work of the pillars finished" emphasizes the successful completion of a significant part of the Temple's construction. This highlights God's faithfulness in enabling the project to be brought to fruition, reflecting the idea of God completing the good work He begins.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "lily" is shoshan (Χ©ΧΧ•ΦΉΧ©ΦΈΧΧŸ). This decorative motif was not unique to the Temple but was a common artistic element in ancient architecture and ornamentation, often associated with natural beauty and fertility. Its application here on the bronze capitals (or chapiters) of Jachin and Boaz would have created a visually striking and symbolically rich design, complementing the intricate network and pomegranates also described in the preceding verses (1 Kings 7:18-20).

Practical Application

This verse, though descriptive of ancient architecture, holds enduring spiritual lessons. It reminds us that God values not only the grand scale of our devotion but also the intricate details and the pursuit of excellence in all we do for Him. Just as the Temple was built with meticulous care and adorned with beauty, our spiritual lives and acts of worship should reflect a similar commitment to quality and reverence. It encourages us to offer our best to God, knowing that He appreciates the beauty and sincerity of a heart dedicated to Him, much like the finished "lily work" on His holy Temple.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.