1 Kings 7:39

He set five stands on the south side of the temple and five on the north, and he put the Sea on the south side, at the southeast corner of the temple.

Study Bible

He set the stands
The phrase "He set the stands" refers to the placement of the ten bronze stands, which were part of the temple furnishings crafted by Hiram, a skilled artisan from Tyre. The Hebrew word for "stands" is "מְכוֹנוֹת" (mekonot), which can also mean bases or platforms. These stands were intricately designed and served as bases for the bronze basins used for washing. The careful placement of these stands signifies the order and precision in the construction of the temple, reflecting God's nature of order and beauty.

five on the south side of the temple
The number five in biblical terms often symbolizes grace and God's goodness. Placing five stands on the south side of the temple, which is traditionally associated with warmth and light, could symbolize the grace and favor of God shining upon His people. The south side, being a place of prominence, indicates the importance of these stands in the temple's function and ritual purity.

and five on the north side
The north side, often associated with mystery and hidden things in biblical literature, balances the placement of the stands. This symmetry in the temple's design reflects the balance and harmony that God desires in His creation. The equal distribution of the stands on both sides of the temple signifies fairness and equality in the worship and service of God.

He also put the Sea
The "Sea" refers to the large bronze basin, also known as the "Molten Sea," used by the priests for ceremonial washing. The Hebrew word for "Sea" is "יָם" (yam), which typically means a large body of water. This basin was a crucial element for maintaining ritual purity, symbolizing the cleansing power of God. It represents the vastness of God's provision for purification and the depth of His mercy.

on the south side, at the southeast corner of the temple
The specific placement of the Sea at the southeast corner of the temple is significant. The southeast corner, receiving the first light of the day, symbolizes new beginnings and hope. This positioning underscores the idea that purification and cleansing are foundational to entering God's presence. The southeast location also suggests readiness and preparation, as the priests would begin their day with purification, aligning themselves with God's holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple, a central figure in this passage.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where the Israelites worshiped God, built by Solomon as a permanent dwelling for the Ark of the Covenant.

3. The Stands
Bronze structures used to support the basins for washing, part of the temple furnishings.

4. The Sea
A large bronze basin used by the priests for ceremonial washing, symbolizing purification.

5. The South and North Sides
The specific locations within the temple complex where the stands and the Sea were placed, indicating order and purpose in worship.

Teaching Points

Order and Purpose in Worship
The specific placement of the stands and the Sea reflects God's desire for order and intentionality in worship. Our worship should be structured and purposeful, reflecting God's holiness and majesty.

Symbolism of Purification
The Sea's role in ceremonial washing symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing. As believers, we are called to seek purity and holiness in our lives, recognizing that true cleansing comes through Christ.

The Role of the Temple
The temple served as a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live in a way that honors God's indwelling presence.

Attention to Detail in Service
The detailed description of the temple's furnishings reminds us of the importance of diligence and excellence in our service to God. We should strive to offer our best in all that we do for Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the stands and the Sea in the temple reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the Sea as a tool for purification apply to our spiritual lives today?

3. How can understanding the role of the temple in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of being the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from the attention to detail in the construction and furnishing of the temple regarding our service to God?

5. How do the connections between the temple furnishings and the tabernacle design in Exodus deepen our understanding of God's plan for worship throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30
Describes the original instructions for the bronze basin, connecting the temple's furnishings to the tabernacle's design.

2 Chronicles 4
Provides a parallel account of the temple's construction, offering additional details about the placement and purpose of the temple furnishings.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the temple and its furnishings in the context of the new covenant, highlighting the transition from physical to spiritual purification.