2 Chronicles 3:17

Then he set up the pillars in front of the temple, one on the south and one on the north. The pillar on the south he named Jachin, and the pillar on the north he named Boaz.

Study Bible

Then he set up the pillars
The act of setting up pillars is significant in ancient architecture, symbolizing strength and stability. In the Hebrew context, pillars often represented God's enduring presence and support. The Hebrew word for "pillar" is "עַמּוּד" (amud), which conveys the idea of standing firm. These pillars were not merely structural but carried deep spiritual symbolism, representing the steadfastness of God's covenant with Israel.

in front of the temple
The placement of the pillars "in front of the temple" indicates their role as guardians or sentinels of the sacred space. The temple, being the dwelling place of God among His people, was a place of immense holiness. The positioning of the pillars at the entrance underscores the transition from the secular to the sacred, reminding worshippers of the reverence due to God.

one on the south and the other on the north
The specific mention of the south and north positions of the pillars may symbolize completeness and balance. In biblical symbolism, directions often carry meaning; the south and north could represent the entirety of the earth, suggesting that God's presence and strength encompass all creation. This placement also reflects the order and precision in God's design for His temple.

He named the one on the south Jachin
The name "Jachin" is derived from the Hebrew root "יָכִין" (yakin), meaning "He will establish." This name signifies God's promise to establish His people and His covenant. It is a reminder of the divine assurance that God will uphold His promises and provide stability and security to those who trust in Him.

and the one on the north Boaz
The name "Boaz" comes from the Hebrew root "בֹּעַז" (boaz), meaning "In Him is strength." This name emphasizes the source of true strength and power, which is found in God alone. Boaz serves as a testament to the might and reliability of God, encouraging believers to rely on His strength rather than their own.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who built the temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the vision and instructions given to his father, David.

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place where the Israelites worshiped God, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. Jachin
The name of the pillar on the south side of the temple entrance, meaning "He will establish" in Hebrew.

4. Boaz
The name of the pillar on the north side of the temple entrance, meaning "In Him is strength" in Hebrew.

5. Hiram of Tyre
The skilled craftsman who assisted Solomon in the construction of the temple, including the casting of the pillars.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Pillars
The names Jachin and Boaz symbolize God's promises and strength. Jachin ("He will establish") reminds us of God's faithfulness to establish His covenant with His people. Boaz ("In Him is strength") emphasizes that our strength comes from God alone.

God's Presence and Stability
The pillars at the temple entrance signify the stability and permanence of God's presence. As believers, we are called to rely on God's unchanging nature and His presence in our lives.

Spiritual Foundations
Just as the temple had physical pillars, our lives require spiritual foundations. These foundations are built on faith in God's promises and reliance on His strength.

Community and Unity
The temple was a place of communal worship, and the pillars were a part of this sacred space. In the same way, believers are called to be united as the body of Christ, supporting one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. What do the names Jachin and Boaz reveal about God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. How can we apply the symbolism of the temple pillars to our personal spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways does the concept of God as our strength (Boaz) manifest in your daily life?

4. How does the construction of the temple and its pillars reflect the importance of community and unity among believers?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in establishing something in your life (Jachin). How did this impact your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 7:21
This passage provides a parallel account of the construction of the temple and the erection of the pillars, reinforcing the significance of Jachin and Boaz.

Psalm 46:1
This verse speaks of God as our refuge and strength, connecting to the meaning of Boaz and the strength found in God.

Ephesians 2:20-22
These verses describe believers as being built together into a holy temple in the Lord, drawing a parallel to the physical temple and its spiritual significance.