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2 Chronicles 4:21

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And the flowers, and the lamps, and the tongs, [made he of] gold, [and] that perfect gold;

And the flowers {H6525}, and the lamps {H5216}, and the tongs {H4457}, made he of gold {H2091}, and that perfect {H4357} gold {H2091};

the flowers, lamps and tongs of gold, solid gold;

the flowers, lamps, and tongs of gold—of purest gold;

and the flowers, and the lamps, and the tongs, of gold, and that perfect gold;

Commentary

2 Chronicles 4:21 is a concise verse detailing specific elements within the Holy Place of Solomon's magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. It highlights the opulent materials used, emphasizing the unparalleled quality dedicated to God's dwelling.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in 2 Chronicles chapters 3 and 4 describing the construction and furnishing of the First Temple, built by King Solomon. Following the architectural plans and the main structure, the text meticulously lists the various vessels and implements for the Temple's service. These items, including the "flowers, lamps, and tongs," were not mere decorations but functional and symbolic elements within the sacred space, specifically the Holy Place, where priests would minister daily. The use of gold for these items reflects the immense wealth of Solomon's kingdom and the profound reverence given to God's presence, echoing the divine instructions for the Tabernacle furnishings given to Moses.

Key Themes

  • Divine Majesty and Purity: The repeated emphasis on "gold" and "perfect gold" underscores the unparalleled value and purity deemed necessary for objects used in God's service. This signifies the holiness and majesty of the Lord, for whom only the best was acceptable.
  • Symbolism of Light: The "lamps" were integral to illuminating the Holy Place, which had no natural light. Made of pure gold, they symbolized the divine light, truth, and presence that emanates from God. The "tongs" were used to tend these lamps, ensuring their continuous burn.
  • Excellence in Worship: The dedication of such precious materials and meticulous craftsmanship for the Temple's furnishings illustrates the principle of offering one's absolute best to God in worship and service.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "perfect gold" translates from the Hebrew zahab sagur (זָהָב סָגוּר). This term implies gold that is "shut up," "refined," or "pure" – indicating its highest quality, free from alloy or impurity. It highlights that the gold was not just any gold, but the finest available, meticulously processed for its sacred purpose. This emphasis on purity was paramount for objects associated with God's dwelling.

Practical Application

While we no longer worship in a physical temple adorned with gold, the principles conveyed by 2 Chronicles 4:21 remain relevant. The dedication of the finest materials for God's house teaches us about:

  • Valuing God's Presence: The gold signifies the immense worth we should place on God's presence in our lives and in our corporate worship.
  • Excellence in Service: Just as the Temple furnishings were made of "perfect gold," our service, talents, and resources should be offered to God with excellence and a pure heart. As believers, we are called to be temples of the Holy Spirit, and our lives should reflect the purity and dedication worthy of His indwelling.
  • Being a Light: The golden lamps illuminating the Holy Place can remind us of our calling to be light in the world, reflecting Christ's truth and glory to those around us.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

  • 2 Chronicles 4:5 (2 votes)

    And the thickness of it [was] an handbreadth, and the brim of it like the work of the brim of a cup, with flowers of lilies; [and] it received and held three thousand baths.

  • Exodus 37:20 (2 votes)

    And in the candlestick [were] four bowls made like almonds, his knops, and his flowers:

  • 1 Kings 6:35 (2 votes)

    And he carved [thereon] cherubims and palm trees and open flowers: and covered [them] with gold fitted upon the carved work.

  • 1 Kings 6:29 (2 votes)

    And he carved all the walls of the house round about with carved figures of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers, within and without.

  • Exodus 25:31 (2 votes)

    ¶ And thou shalt make a candlestick [of] pure gold: [of] beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.

  • Exodus 25:40 (2 votes)

    And look that thou make [them] after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.

  • 1 Kings 6:18 (2 votes)

    And the cedar of the house within [was] carved with knops and open flowers: all [was] cedar; there was no stone seen.