1 Kings 7:48

Solomon also made all the furnishings for the house of the LORD: the golden altar; the golden table on which was placed the Bread of the Presence;

Study Bible

Solomon also made
The phrase "Solomon also made" highlights the active role of King Solomon in the construction and furnishing of the temple. Solomon, whose name in Hebrew, "Shlomo," is derived from "shalom," meaning peace, was chosen by God to build the temple, a task denied to his father David due to his history of warfare. This emphasizes Solomon's role as a king of peace and wisdom, fulfilling God's promise to David and establishing a central place of worship for Israel.

all the furnishings
The term "all the furnishings" refers to the comprehensive nature of Solomon's work in equipping the temple. This includes various items necessary for worship and sacrifice, indicating the thoroughness and dedication to creating a space worthy of God's presence. The Hebrew word for furnishings, "keli," can mean vessels or implements, suggesting both functional and sacred purposes, underscoring the temple's role as a place of divine encounter.

for the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple, a physical manifestation of God's dwelling among His people. In Hebrew, "bayit" means house, and "YHWH" is the sacred name of God. The temple was not just a building but a symbol of God's covenant with Israel, a place where heaven and earth met, and where the Israelites could come to worship and offer sacrifices.

the golden altar
The "golden altar" is the altar of incense, distinct from the bronze altar used for burnt offerings. Made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, it stood in the Holy Place before the veil separating the Holy of Holies. The use of gold signifies purity and divinity, reflecting the altar's role in the offering of incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

the golden table
The "golden table" refers to the Table of Showbread, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. This table held the Bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and covenant with Israel. Gold, a symbol of royalty and divinity, underscores the sacredness of the table and its contents, reminding the Israelites of God's continual presence and sustenance.

on which was the Bread of the Presence
The "Bread of the Presence," or "Lechem haPanim" in Hebrew, literally means "bread of the face," signifying the bread's role in representing God's presence. Placed on the table every Sabbath, it consisted of twelve loaves, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel. This bread was a perpetual offering, a reminder of God's covenant and His provision for His people, pointing forward to the ultimate provision in Christ, the Bread of Life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who succeeded his father David. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

2. The House of the LORD
Refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. The Golden Altar
An altar made of gold used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

4. The Golden Table
A table made of gold that held the Bread of the Presence, representing God's provision and covenant with Israel.

5. The Bread of the Presence
Also known as showbread, it was a continual offering before the LORD, signifying God's sustenance and fellowship with His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
The detailed construction of the Temple and its furnishings highlights the importance of worship and reverence for God. Our worship should be intentional and reflective of God's holiness.

God's Provision and Presence
The Bread of the Presence symbolizes God's continual provision and presence. In our lives, we should recognize and rely on God's daily provision and presence.

Symbolism of the Altar
The golden altar for incense represents the prayers of the saints. We are encouraged to maintain a life of prayer, knowing that our prayers are precious to God.

Christ as Fulfillment
The Temple and its furnishings point to Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan for redemption and communion with His people.

Stewardship of Resources
Solomon used the finest materials for the Temple, reminding us to use our resources wisely and for God's glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Temple and its furnishings reflect the character and priorities of Solomon as a leader?

2. In what ways does the Bread of the Presence in the Temple connect to Jesus' declaration of being the "bread of life"?

3. How can the symbolism of the golden altar and incense inform and enhance our personal prayer life today?

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?

5. How does understanding the role of the Temple in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Christ's work as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-30
These chapters provide the original instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, which Solomon's Temple furnishings were based upon.

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, drawing parallels to the heavenly sanctuary and the work of Christ.

Matthew 12:6
Jesus refers to Himself as greater than the Temple, indicating His role as the ultimate fulfillment of what the Temple represented.