1 Kings 6:34

The two doors were made of cypress wood, and each had two folding panels.

Study Bible

There were two doors
The phrase "two doors" signifies the entrance to the inner sanctuary of Solomon's Temple, a place of profound holiness and divine presence. In the Hebrew context, doors (דְּלָתוֹת, delatot) symbolize access and transition, representing the threshold between the earthly and the divine. The duality of the doors may also reflect the dual nature of God's covenant with Israel, offering both protection and a call to righteousness.

of cypress wood
Cypress wood (בְּרוֹשִׁים, beroshim) is noted for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's promises. Historically, cypress was a valuable material in ancient construction, often used for its strength and longevity. The use of cypress wood in the temple's doors underscores the eternal and unchanging nature of God's covenant with His people, as well as the beauty and majesty of His dwelling place.

each with two folding panels
The "two folding panels" (צְלָעִים, tzelaim) of each door suggest a design that allows for both closure and openness, reflecting the accessibility of God to His people while maintaining His holiness. The folding nature of the panels may symbolize the flexibility and adaptability of God's grace, which meets us where we are yet calls us to a higher standard. Architecturally, this design would have been both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the grandeur of the temple.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple in Jerusalem, a task that his father, David, had desired to accomplish.

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place constructed by Solomon as a dwelling place for the Lord, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. Cypress Wood
A durable and aromatic wood used in the construction of the temple doors, signifying strength and beauty.

4. Doors with Folding Panels
These doors were part of the temple's design, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail in the temple's construction.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
The construction of the temple, including the detailed work on the doors, underscores the importance of creating a space dedicated to worship and reverence for God.

Attention to Detail in Service to God
The craftsmanship involved in making the temple doors reflects the value of excellence and dedication in our service to God.

Symbolism of the Doors
The doors serve as a metaphor for access to God, reminding us of the open invitation to enter into His presence through worship and prayer.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Solomon's completion of the temple fulfills a promise made to David, illustrating the importance of faithfulness to God's plans across generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of cypress wood in the temple's construction reflect the values of strength and beauty in our own spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our places of worship today reflect the reverence and dedication seen in Solomon's temple?

3. How does the concept of "doors with folding panels" symbolize our access to God, and how can this understanding impact our prayer life?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's attention to detail in the temple's construction that can be applied to our personal and communal worship practices?

5. How does the fulfillment of God's promise to David through Solomon's building of the temple encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26
The construction of the tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, also involved detailed craftsmanship and specific materials, highlighting the continuity in worship practices.

2 Chronicles 3-4
Provides a parallel account of the temple's construction, offering additional details and emphasizing the significance of the temple in Israel's worship.

Ezekiel 41
Describes a vision of a future temple, drawing connections to the importance of the temple as a place of divine presence and worship.