1 Kings 6:6

The bottom floor was five cubits wide, the middle floor six cubits, and the third floor seven cubits. He also placed offset ledges around the outside of the temple, so that nothing would be inserted into its walls.

Study Bible

The lowest floor
The Hebrew term for "lowest" is "תַּחְתּוֹן" (taḥtôn), which signifies something that is beneath or lower in position. In the context of Solomon's Temple, this refers to the foundational level of the structure. Theologically, the lowest floor can symbolize the foundational truths of faith upon which believers build their spiritual lives. Just as the temple's lowest floor was essential for the stability of the entire structure, so too are the foundational doctrines of Christianity crucial for a stable faith.

was five cubits wide
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The specific width of five cubits for the lowest floor indicates a deliberate architectural design. Biblically, the number five often symbolizes grace. The width of the lowest floor being five cubits could be seen as a reminder of God's grace as the foundation of His dwelling place among His people.

the middle floor six cubits
The middle floor, being six cubits wide, shows a progression in the temple's design. The number six in the Bible often represents human effort or imperfection, as it falls short of the divine number seven. This could symbolize the human element in the construction and maintenance of the temple, reminding us that while God's grace is foundational, human responsibility and effort are also part of the spiritual journey.

and the third floor seven cubits
The third floor, at seven cubits wide, reaches the number of completion and perfection in biblical numerology. Seven is often associated with God's divine order and perfection. This progression from five to six to seven cubits in the temple's design can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual growth, moving from grace through human effort to divine completion.

He also placed offset ledges
The Hebrew word for "offset ledges" is "יָצוּעַ" (yāṣûa‘), which refers to projections or offsets. These architectural features were practical, allowing for the support of the upper floors without penetrating the temple's sacred walls. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for how God supports and sustains His people without compromising His holiness.

around the outside of the temple
The temple's exterior design, including these ledges, was not just functional but also symbolic. The temple was a visible representation of God's presence among His people. The care taken in its construction reflects the reverence and awe due to God, reminding believers to honor God in all aspects of life, both internal and external.

so that nothing would be inserted into its walls
This phrase highlights the sanctity and integrity of the temple's walls. The walls were to remain untouched by foreign materials, symbolizing purity and holiness. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a call for believers to maintain the purity of their faith and not allow worldly influences to compromise their spiritual integrity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was tasked with building the temple, a significant project that symbolized God's presence among His people.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where God's presence dwelt, serving as a central place of worship for the Israelites.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the temple was constructed, considered the spiritual and political center of Israel.

4. The Builders
Skilled laborers and craftsmen who were involved in the construction of the temple, following specific instructions and measurements.

5. The Ledges
Architectural features designed to support the structure without penetrating the sacred walls, reflecting the care and reverence in the temple's construction.

Teaching Points

Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific measurements and construction methods highlight the importance of precision and care in our worship and service to God.

Reverence for God's Presence
The temple's construction reflects the holiness of God and the reverence required when approaching Him.

Spiritual Foundations
Just as the temple had a strong physical foundation, our spiritual lives require a solid foundation in Christ and His teachings.

Unity in Purpose
The collaboration of builders and craftsmen in constructing the temple serves as a model for unity and cooperation within the body of Christ.

Respect for Sacred Spaces
The design of the temple, with its offset ledges, teaches us to respect and preserve the sanctity of places dedicated to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the temple in 1 Kings 6:6 reflect the character of God, and how can this understanding influence our approach to worship today?

2. In what ways can the concept of "offset ledges" be applied to maintaining the integrity of our spiritual lives and communities?

3. How does the construction of the temple in Solomon's time connect to the idea of believers being a spiritual temple in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from the unity and cooperation of the builders in the temple's construction, and how can these lessons be applied in our church communities?

5. How can we ensure that our personal and communal worship spaces remain sacred and dedicated to God's glory, in light of the temple's construction principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the construction of the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple. The detailed instructions given to Moses parallel the care taken in building the temple.

2 Chronicles 3-4
These chapters provide another account of the temple's construction, offering additional details and emphasizing its significance.

Ephesians 2:19-22
This passage speaks of believers as a spiritual temple, drawing a parallel between the physical temple and the spiritual community of the church.