Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 7:36
This verb means to engrave or carve, and is used in Exodus to describe the intricate carvings on the furniture of the tabernacle.
Definition: 1) to open 1a) (Qal) to open 1b) (Niphal) to be opened, be let loose, be thrown open 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to free 1c2) to loosen 1c3) to open, open oneself 1d) (Hithpael) to loose oneself Aramaic equivalent: pe.tach (פְּתַח "to open" H6606)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: appear, break forth, draw (out), let go free, (en-) grave(-n), loose (self), (be, be set) open(-ing), put off, ungird, unstop, have vent. See also: Genesis 7:11; Psalms 39:10; Psalms 5:10.
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
This word refers to a polished tablet, possibly made of stone, wood, or metal. In the Bible, it is used to describe the tablets of stone given to Moses, and is translated as board, plate, or table in the KJV.
Definition: 1) board, slab, tablet, plank 1a) tablets (of stone) 1b) boards (of wood) 1c) plate (of metal)
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: board, plate, table. See also: Exodus 24:12; Deuteronomy 9:15; Proverbs 3:3.
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
This word means a border or perimeter of a region, like the edge of a city or a mountain. It is used in the Bible to describe the borders of Israel in Numbers 34:7-12 and the strongholds of God in Psalm 31:2-4. The word can also refer to a secure or fortified place.
Definition: 1) border, fastness, rim 1a) border, rim 1b) fastness
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: border, close place, hole. See also: Exodus 25:25; 1 Kings 7:31; Psalms 18:46.
This word means a border or perimeter of a region, like the edge of a city or a mountain. It is used in the Bible to describe the borders of Israel in Numbers 34:7-12 and the strongholds of God in Psalm 31:2-4. The word can also refer to a secure or fortified place.
Definition: 1) border, fastness, rim 1a) border, rim 1b) fastness
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: border, close place, hole. See also: Exodus 25:25; 1 Kings 7:31; Psalms 18:46.
A cherub is an angelic being in the Bible, often depicted as guarding important places like Eden or God's throne. They're also shown as images on the Ark of the Covenant. The KJV translates this word as cherub or cherubims.
Definition: 1) cherub, cherubim (pl) 1a) an angelic being 1a1) as guardians of Eden 1a2) as flanking God's throne 1a3) as an image form hovering over the Ark of the Covenant 1a4) as the chariot of Jehovah (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: cherub, (plural) cherubims. See also: Genesis 3:24; 2 Chronicles 3:10; Psalms 18:11.
In biblical times, a lion was a symbol of strength and power, and is often mentioned in stories like Daniel in the lions' den. The word for lion appears in various forms, including pictures or images of lions, and is used in books like 1 Kings and 2 Kings.
Definition: 1) lion 1a) pictures or images of lions
Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: (young) lion, [phrase] pierce (from the margin). See also: Genesis 49:9; Proverbs 22:13; Psalms 7:3.
In the Bible, this word refers to a palm tree or a decorative column shaped like a palm, often used in architecture. It symbolizes peace and victory, as seen in the tabernacle's design. Exodus describes palm trees in the wilderness.
Definition: palm tree figure (as ornament)
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: palm tree. See also: 1 Kings 6:29; Ezekiel 40:31; Ezekiel 41:26.
Nakedness refers to being exposed or uncovered, like a bare place. In the Bible, it can also mean being vulnerable or open, as seen in the book of Genesis. It is often used to describe a state of shame or weakness.
Definition: 1) bare, naked place, nakedness 1a) bare place 1b) nakedness, pudenda (exposed in punishment)
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: nakedness, proportion. See also: 1 Kings 7:36; Nahum 3:5.
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
A wreath or garland is a circular decoration, often used to symbolize honor or celebration, although its exact meaning is uncertain. It is mentioned in the Bible as an addition or supplement.
Definition: 1) wreath, garland 1a) meaning uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: addition. See also: 1 Kings 7:29; 1 Kings 7:30; 1 Kings 7:36.
This word describes something that surrounds or encompasses, like a circle or neighborhood, and can also mean around or about, as in on every side. It is used to describe physical locations and proximity. The KJV translates it as about or circuit.
Definition: : around/border subst 1) places round about, circuit, round about adv 2) in a circuit, a circuit, round about prep 3) in the circuit, from every side
Usage: Occurs in 282 OT verses. KJV: (place, round) about, circuit, compass, on every side. See also: Genesis 23:17; 1 Kings 7:24; Psalms 3:7.
Context — The Ten Bronze Stands
34Each stand had four handles, one for each corner, projecting from the stand.
35At the top of each stand was a circular band half a cubit high. The supports and panels were cast as a unit with the top of the stand.
36He engraved cherubim, lions, and palm trees on the surfaces of the supports and panels, wherever each had space, with wreaths all around.
37In this way he made the ten stands, each with the same casting, dimensions, and shape.
38He also made ten bronze basins, each holding forty baths and measuring four cubits across, one basin for each of the ten stands.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) |
| 1 |
1 Kings 7:29 |
and on the panels between the uprights were lions, oxen, and cherubim. On the uprights was a pedestal above, and below the lions and oxen were wreaths of beveled work. |
| 2 |
1 Kings 6:29 |
Then he carved the walls all around the temple, in both the inner and outer sanctuaries, with carved engravings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. |
| 3 |
Ezekiel 41:18–20 |
were alternating carved cherubim and palm trees. Each cherub had two faces: the face of a man was toward the palm tree on one side, and the face of a young lion was toward the palm tree on the other side. They were carved all the way around the temple. Cherubim and palm trees were carved on the wall of the outer sanctuary from the floor to the space above the entrance. |
| 4 |
Ezekiel 40:37 |
Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees on each side. Eight steps led up to it. |
| 5 |
1 Kings 6:35 |
He carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers; and he overlaid them with gold, hammered evenly over the carvings. |
| 6 |
Ezekiel 40:31 |
Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees. Eight steps led up to it. |
| 7 |
1 Kings 6:32 |
The double doors were made of olive wood, and he carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers and overlaid the cherubim and palm trees with hammered gold. |
| 8 |
Ezekiel 41:25–26 |
Cherubim and palm trees like those on the walls were carved on the doors of the outer sanctuary, and there was a wooden canopy outside, on the front of the portico. There were beveled windows and palm trees on the sidewalls of the portico. The side rooms of the temple also had canopies. |
1 Kings 7:36 Summary
The verse 1 Kings 7:36 describes the beautiful engravings on the supports and panels of the Temple furnishings, which included cherubim, lions, and palm trees, surrounded by wreaths. This attention to detail and beauty reflects God's character and desire for us to create things that bring glory to Him, as seen in Psalm 19:1-6. The engravings also symbolize the unity and harmony of God's creation, pointing to the Garden of Eden, where God walked among humanity, as described in Genesis 2:8-14. As we reflect on this verse, we can learn about the importance of excellence and diligence in our work, and the value of creating beautiful things that bring glory to God.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the engravings on the supports and panels in 1 Kings 7:36?
The engravings of cherubim, lions, and palm trees signify the majesty and beauty of God's creation, as seen in Ezekiel 41:18-20 and 1 Kings 6:23-35, and point to the Garden of Eden, where God walked among humanity, as described in Genesis 2:8-14.
Why did the craftsman include wreaths around the engravings?
The wreaths likely symbolize the unity and harmony of God's creation, as seen in the intricate designs and patterns throughout the Temple, reflecting the beauty and order of God's plan, as described in Psalm 19:1-6 and Isaiah 28:23-29.
What can we learn from the attention to detail in the craftsmanship of the Temple furnishings?
The attention to detail in the craftsmanship of the Temple furnishings teaches us about the importance of excellence and diligence in our work, as seen in Colossians 3:23-24 and 1 Corinthians 10:31, and the value of creating beautiful things that bring glory to God, as described in Exodus 35:30-35 and Psalm 90:17.
How does the description of the Temple furnishings in 1 Kings 7:36 relate to the overall theme of the book of 1 Kings?
The description of the Temple furnishings in 1 Kings 7:36 highlights the splendor and majesty of the Temple, which serves as a symbol of God's presence and covenant with His people, as seen in 1 Kings 5:1-6:38 and 1 Kings 8:1-66, and sets the stage for the rest of the book, which explores the highs and lows of Israel's relationship with God.
Reflection Questions
- As I reflect on the intricate designs and patterns in the Temple furnishings, what does this teach me about God's character and attention to detail in my own life?
- How can I apply the principle of excellence and diligence in my own work and daily activities, as seen in the craftsmanship of the Temple furnishings?
- What are some ways I can create beauty and bring glory to God in my own life, whether through my work, relationships, or personal pursuits?
- As I consider the symbolism of the cherubim, lions, and palm trees, what does this reveal to me about God's plan for humanity and His desire for us to live in harmony with His creation?
- In what ways can I cultivate a sense of wonder and awe for God's creation, as reflected in the beautiful designs and patterns of the Temple furnishings?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 7:36
For on the plates of the ledges thereof, and on the borders thereof,.... In this, and the preceding verse, a different word is used, translated "ledges", from that in 1 Kings 7:28, the Targum renders
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 7:36
And the work of the bases was on this manner: they had borders, and the borders were between the ledges: No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 7:36
According to the proportion, or, empty place, i.e. according to the bigness of the spaces which were left empty for them, implying that they were smaller than those above mentioned.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 7:36
1 Kings 7:36 For on the plates of the ledges thereof, and on the borders thereof, he graved cherubims, lions, and palm trees, according to the proportion of every one, and additions round about.Ver. 36. According to the proportion of every one.] Heb., According to the nakedness; that is, the true resemblance. Truth is like our first parents, most beautiful when naked. And additions round about.] Round about the base were certain fillings and finishings, on the uppermost edgings.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 7:36
(13-50) The exceedingly graphic and elaborate description of the work of Hiram on the vessels and furniture of the Temple, and on the great pillars, bears on the very face of it the most evident marks of historical accuracy and of the use of contemporary documents, and it has, moreover, great antiquarian interest. Looked at in itself, it shows that the Temple (like many other buildings in the comparative infancy of architecture) depended for its effect, not so much on size or proportion, as on rich material, elaborate decoration, and costly furniture, on which all the resources both of treasure and art were lavished. But besides this, the sense of the especial sacredness attached to all the vessels of the Temple, which was hereafter to degenerate into a Pharisaic superstition (see Matthew 23:16-18), suggested the most careful record of every detail, and reverently traced to “the Spirit of God” the gift of “wisdom of heart” “to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,” as in Bezaleel and Aholiab for the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:31-32), so also in Hiram for the Temple. There is something especially remarkable in this broad comprehensiveness of conception which recognises the illuminating and inspiring power of the Spirit of God, not only in the moral and religious teaching of the prophet and the devotional utterances of the psalmist, but in the warlike enthusiasm of the Judge, the sagacity of the statesman, the imaginative skill of the artist, and the wisdom of the philosophic thinker. Nothing could more strikingly illustrate the Apostolic declaration: “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4).
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 7:36
36. according to the proportion of every one, and additions round about] The word rendered ‘proportion’ means rather any ‘bare space.’ Hence the sense is that the graving was such as the space admitted. So, and to harmonize the final words with the previous verse, we should render ‘according to the space in every one, and with wreaths round about.’
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 7:36
According to the proportion of every one - i. e. “as large as the room left for them allowed,” implying that the panels were smaller than those on the sides of the base, and allowed scant room for the representations.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 7:36
36. Plates of the ledges — Rather, plates of the hands; the outer surface of the plates which formed a part of the base-work or supports of the laver.