The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan. The kingThis phrase refers to King Solomon, the son of David, who was renowned for his wisdom and for building the first temple in Jerusalem. Solomon's reign is often seen as a golden age for Israel, marked by peace and prosperity. His leadership in constructing the temple and other significant structures reflects his dedication to glorifying God and establishing a central place of worship for the Israelites. had them cast
The process of casting involves pouring molten metal into a mold to create a specific shape. This phrase indicates the meticulous and skilled craftsmanship involved in creating the temple furnishings. The use of casting signifies the permanence and durability of the items, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel. in clay molds
Clay molds were used in ancient times for casting metal objects. The use of clay, a humble and abundant material, highlights the contrast between the earthly and the divine. It serves as a reminder that God can use simple, earthly means to accomplish His divine purposes. The process of casting in clay molds also reflects the creativity and resourcefulness of the artisans under Solomon's direction. in the plain of the Jordan
This geographical reference situates the casting process in a specific location known for its rich alluvial soil, ideal for making clay molds. The Jordan Valley was a significant area in Israel's history, symbolizing transition and transformation, as it was the crossing point into the Promised Land. This setting underscores the importance of the work being done for the temple, a place where heaven and earth would meet. between Succoth and Zarethan
These locations are mentioned to provide a precise geographical context. Succoth and Zarethan were towns in the Jordan Valley, and their mention indicates the logistical planning and organization required for such a large-scale project. Historically, these areas were known for their resources and strategic importance, which would have facilitated the production and transportation of the temple furnishings. Persons / Places / Events 1. King SolomonThe ruler of Israel who commissioned the construction of the temple and its furnishings, including the bronze works mentioned in this verse. 2. The Plain of the JordanA geographical area where the casting of the bronze items took place. This location was chosen for its suitability for large-scale metalwork. 3. SuccothA town near the Jordan River, significant in Israel's history, and mentioned as a location near where the casting occurred. 4. ZarethanAnother town near the Jordan River, close to Succoth, marking the area where the bronze casting was done. 5. Bronze CastingThe event of creating the temple furnishings, which were essential for the worship practices in the temple Solomon built. Teaching Points The Importance of PreparationJust as Solomon prepared the materials and location for the temple furnishings, we must prepare our hearts and minds for worship and service to God. God's Provision of ResourcesThe choice of the Jordan plain for casting shows God's provision of the right resources and locations for His work. We should trust God to provide what we need for His purposes. Attention to Detail in WorshipThe detailed process of casting the bronze items reflects the importance of precision and care in our worship and service to God. Historical ContinuityThe use of locations like Succoth and Zarethan connects Solomon's work to Israel's history, reminding us of the continuity of God's plan through generations. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the choice of the Jordan plain for casting the bronze items tell us about the importance of location in God's work? 2. How can we apply the principle of preparation seen in Solomon's work to our own spiritual lives? 3. In what ways does the historical significance of places like Succoth and Zarethan enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness? 4. How does the detailed craftsmanship of the temple furnishings inspire us to approach our own tasks for God with excellence? 5. What other biblical events or instructions can you think of that emphasize the importance of careful preparation and attention to detail in serving God? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 25-27These chapters describe the instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, which parallels Solomon's work on the temple. 2 Chronicles 4This chapter provides a parallel account of the temple furnishings, offering additional details about the items cast in bronze. Genesis 33:17Succoth is mentioned as a place where Jacob settled temporarily, highlighting its historical significance. People Boaz, David, Hiram, Huram, Jachin, Naphtali, Pharaoh, SolomonPlaces Hall of Judgment, Hall of Pillars, Hall of the Throne, House of the Forest of Lebanon, Jordan River, Most Holy Place, Succoth, Tyre, ZarethanTopics Across, Adama, Cast, Circuit, Clay, Clay-ground, Ground, Jordan, Liquid, Lowland, Metal, Molds, Plain, River, Soil, Succoth, Thick, Zaretan, Zarethan, ZarthanDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Kings 7:46 4315 clay 1 Kings 7:13-50 4348 mining 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 HebraicaHiram, 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 Links 1 Kings 7:46 NIV1 Kings 7:46 NLT1 Kings 7:46 ESV1 Kings 7:46 NASB1 Kings 7:46 KJV
1 Kings 7:46 Commentaries
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