1 Kings 6:8

The entrance to the bottom floor was on the south side of the temple. A stairway led up to the middle level, and from there to the third floor.

Study Bible

The entrance for the middle story
This phrase refers to the architectural design of Solomon's Temple, specifically the access point to the middle level of the structure. The Hebrew word for "entrance" is "פֶּתַח" (petach), which implies an opening or doorway. In the context of ancient Near Eastern architecture, entrances were significant as they often symbolized transition and access to sacred spaces. The middle account of the temple likely served a specific function, possibly related to storage or priestly activities, emphasizing the organized and purposeful design of the temple.

was on the right side of the house
The "right side" in Hebrew is "יָמִין" (yamin), which often symbolizes strength and favor in biblical literature. The right side of a structure was traditionally considered a place of honor and power. This detail underscores the intentionality in the temple's design, reflecting the divine order and the importance of the temple as a dwelling place for God's presence. The "house" refers to the temple itself, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's covenant with Israel.

and they would go up
The phrase "go up" is translated from the Hebrew "עָלָה" (alah), which means to ascend or climb. This verb is frequently used in the context of approaching God, as in going up to Jerusalem or the temple. The act of ascending to the temple's higher levels can be seen as a metaphor for drawing nearer to God, both physically and spiritually. It reflects the idea of elevation in worship and the pursuit of holiness.

by winding stairs
"Winding stairs" is derived from the Hebrew "לוּלִים" (lulim), indicating a spiral or helical staircase. This architectural feature was not only practical but also symbolic. The spiral ascent could represent the journey of faith, with its twists and turns, leading upward toward God. In ancient construction, such staircases were innovative, demonstrating the advanced engineering and craftsmanship involved in building the temple.

to the middle story
The repetition of "middle story" emphasizes its importance in the temple's structure. The middle level served as a transitional space, possibly for the priests' use, highlighting the layered approach to accessing the sacred. This design reflects the hierarchical nature of worship in the temple, where different levels of holiness and access were observed.

and from the middle to the third
This phrase indicates a progression from one level to another, symbolizing spiritual growth and deeper engagement with the divine. The "third" level, or "שְׁלִישִׁי" (shelishi) in Hebrew, represents the highest point within the temple structure accessible by these stairs. It suggests a culmination of the journey, reaching a place of greater proximity to God's presence, akin to the spiritual ascent believers are called to in their walk with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was responsible for building the temple. His reign is marked by wisdom and prosperity, and the construction of the temple is one of his most significant achievements.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where the Israelites worshiped God. It was a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people.

3. Winding Stairs
Architectural features within the temple that allowed access to different levels. They symbolize the progression and ascent in spiritual life.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of the temple's construction, including the winding stairs, highlights the importance of order and structure in worship. Just as the temple was meticulously designed, our worship should be intentional and reverent.

Spiritual Ascent and Growth
The winding stairs symbolize the journey of spiritual growth. As believers, we are called to ascend in our faith, moving from one level of maturity to the next, much like the progression from one floor to another in the temple.

God's Presence and Accessibility
The temple served as a physical representation of God's presence among His people. The accessibility of different levels within the temple reminds us that God desires a relationship with us and provides a way for us to draw near to Him.

Symbolism of the Temple in Christian Life
The temple is a foreshadowing of Christ and the church. As believers, we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live lives that reflect God's holiness and glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the temple reflect the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can the concept of "winding stairs" be applied to our spiritual journey and growth in faith?

3. How does the temple's design and function connect to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from Solomon's dedication to building the temple that can be applied to our own dedication to God's work today?

5. How do the descriptions of the temple in 1 Kings 6 and 2 Chronicles 3-4 enhance our understanding of the significance of worship and God's presence in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple. The detailed instructions for the tabernacle's construction reflect the care and precision also seen in the temple's design.

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

Ezekiel 41
This chapter describes a vision of a future temple, drawing connections to the temple's design and its spiritual symbolism.