1 Kings 7:29 Study Bible: and on the panels that were between the ledges were lions, oxen, and cherubim; and on the ledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions and oxen were wreaths of hanging work.

◄ 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.

Study Bible

and on the panels between the uprights were lions, oxen, and cherubim.
The panels described here are part of the intricate design of Solomon's temple furnishings, specifically the ten bronze stands used for the basins. Lions, oxen, and cherubim are significant symbols in biblical literature. Lions often represent strength and majesty, as seen in the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:9). Oxen symbolize service and sacrifice, reflecting the agricultural society of ancient Israel and the importance of offerings (Numbers 7:3). Cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence of God, as seen in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and on the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). The inclusion of these figures emphasizes the temple's role as a place of divine presence and worship.

On the uprights was a pedestal above,
The pedestal above the uprights suggests a structure designed for stability and prominence. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, pedestals were often used to elevate important objects, signifying their sacred or royal status. This design choice highlights the importance of the temple furnishings and their role in the worship practices of Israel. The elevation of the basins on pedestals may symbolize the exaltation of God's holiness and the purity required in approaching Him.

and below the lions and oxen were wreaths of beveled work.
Wreaths of beveled work indicate a high level of craftsmanship and artistry. Beveled work involves cutting at an angle, creating a decorative effect that adds depth and beauty. This attention to detail reflects the care and reverence with which the temple was constructed, as it was intended to be a dwelling place for God's name (1 Kings 8:29). The use of wreaths may also symbolize victory and honor, common themes in biblical imagery (1 Corinthians 9:25). The combination of these elements in the temple's design underscores the glory and majesty of God, as well as the dedication of Solomon and the Israelites to create a fitting place for worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple and his palace, including the intricate designs described in this passage.

2. Hiram of Tyre
The skilled craftsman who worked on the temple and palace, known for his expertise in bronze work.

3. The Temple and Palace
The structures built by Solomon, showcasing the wealth, artistry, and dedication to God.

4. Lions, Oxen, and Cherubim
Symbolic figures used in the decoration, representing strength, service, and divine presence.

5. Jerusalem
The city where Solomon's temple and palace were constructed, the spiritual and political center of Israel.

Teaching Points

Symbolism in Worship
The use of lions, oxen, and cherubim in the temple's design reflects the importance of symbolism in worship, reminding us of God's strength, service, and holiness.

Artistry and Craftsmanship
The detailed work of Hiram and the artisans emphasizes the value of using our God-given talents to honor Him, encouraging us to pursue excellence in our work for His glory.

God's Presence
The cherubim symbolize God's presence and protection, reminding us that God is always with us, guiding and guarding our lives.

Continuity of Worship
The similarities between the Tabernacle and the Temple highlight the continuity of worship practices, encouraging us to maintain traditions that honor God while being open to His leading in new ways.

Holiness and Reverence
The intricate designs and symbolic figures in the temple call us to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and majesty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the symbolic figures of lions, oxen, and cherubim in 1 Kings 7:29 enhance your understanding of God's attributes?

2. In what ways can you use your talents and skills to honor God, similar to the artisans who worked on Solomon's temple?

3. How does the presence of cherubim in both the Old and New Testaments influence your view of God's holiness and presence in your life?

4. What traditions or practices in your worship community help maintain a sense of continuity with biblical worship, and how can they be adapted to remain relevant today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's presence and protection in your life. How can this passage encourage you to trust in His ongoing guidance and care?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters describe the construction of the Tabernacle, which also included detailed artistic designs and the use of cherubim, showing continuity in worship practices.

Ezekiel 1
The vision of cherubim in Ezekiel highlights their role as guardians of God's holiness, similar to their representation in Solomon's temple.

Revelation 4
The presence of living creatures around God's throne in Revelation echoes the use of symbolic figures like cherubim in the temple.

Sermons

The Lotus

W. Balgarnie.

People

Boaz, David, Hiram, Huram, Jachin, Naphtali, Pharaoh, Solomon

Places

Hall of Judgment, Hall of Pillars, Hall of the Throne, House of the Forest of Lebanon, Jordan River, Most Holy Place, Succoth, Tyre, Zarethan

Topics

Below, Beneath, Bulls, Cherubim, Hammered, Hanging, Ledges, Lions, Oxen, Panels, Pedestal, Uprights, Wreaths

Dictionary of Bible Themes

1 Kings 7:29

4150 cherubim
4666 lion

1 Kings 7:13-45

1 Kings 7:13-50

1 Kings 7:23-33

1 Kings 7:25-29

1 Kings 7:27-37

Library

Gadara
There was a double Gadara. One at the shore of the Mediterranean sea: that was first called Gezer, 1 Kings 9:15. In Josephus, "Simon destroyed the city Gazara, and Joppe, and Jamnia."--And in the Book of the Maccabees, "And he fortified Joppe, which is on the sea, and Gazara, which is on the borders of Azotus." At length, according to the idiom of the Syrian dialect, Zain passed into Daleth; and instead of Gazara, it was called Gadara. Hence Strabo, after the mention of Jamnia, saith, "and there …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
BY REV. W. J. TOWNSEND, D.D. The Temple of Solomon was the crown of art in the old world. There were temples on a larger scale, and of more massive construction, but the enormous masses of masonry of the oldest nations were not comparable with the artistic grace, the luxurious adornments, and the harmonious proportions of this glorious House of God. David had laid up money and material for the great work, but he was not permitted to carry it out. He was a man of war, and blood-stained hands were …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known

Whether any Preparation and Disposition for Grace is Required on Man's Part?
Objection 1: It would seem that no preparation or disposition for grace is required on man's part, since, as the Apostle says (Rom. 4:4), "To him that worketh, the reward is not reckoned according to grace, but according to debt." Now a man's preparation by free-will can only be through some operation. Hence it would do away with the notion of grace. Objection 2: Further, whoever is going on sinning, is not preparing himself to have grace. But to some who are going on sinning grace is given, as is …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

A Discourse of the House and Forest of Lebanon
OF THE HOUSE OF THE FOREST OF LEBANON. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. That part of Palestine in which the celebrated mountains of Lebanon are situated, is the border country adjoining Syria, having Sidon for its seaport, and Land, nearly adjoining the city of Damascus, on the north. This metropolitan city of Syria, and capital of the kingdom of Damascus, was strongly fortified; and during the border conflicts it served as a cover to the Assyrian army. Bunyan, with great reason, supposes that, to keep …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Adam and Zaretan, Joshua 3
I suspect a double error in some maps, while they place these two towns in Perea; much more, while they place them at so little a distance. We do not deny, indeed, that the city Adam was in Perea; but Zaretan was not so. Of Adam is mention, Joshua 3:16; where discourse is had of the cutting-off, or cutting in two, the waters of Jordan, that they might afford a passage to Israel; The waters rose up upon a heap afar off in Adam. For the textual reading "In Adam," the marginal hath "From Adam." You …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

That the Ruler Should be a Near Neighbour to Every one in Compassion, and Exalted Above all in Contemplation.
The ruler should be a near neighbour to every one in sympathy, and exalted above all in contemplation, so that through the bowels of loving-kindness he may transfer the infirmities of others to himself, and by loftiness of speculation transcend even himself in his aspiration after the invisible; lest either in seeking high things he despise the weak things of his neighbours, or in suiting himself to the weak things of his neighbours he relinquish his aspiration after high things. For hence it is …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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