2 Chronicles 3:3

The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God was sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide, according to the old standard.

Study Bible

The foundation that Solomon laid
This phrase emphasizes the intentional and divinely guided effort of Solomon, the son of David, in constructing the temple. The Hebrew word for "foundation" (יְסוֹד, yesod) signifies a base or support, indicating the importance of a strong beginning. Solomon's role as the builder of the temple fulfills the promise God made to David, highlighting the continuity of God's covenant with Israel. The foundation is not just physical but also spiritual, symbolizing the establishment of a place where God's presence would dwell among His people.

for the house of God
The "house of God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites. In Hebrew, the term "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) can mean both a physical structure and a household or family, suggesting that the temple is both a literal building and a spiritual home for God's people. This temple was to be a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence and His covenant with Israel. The construction of the temple marks a significant moment in Israel's history, transitioning from the portable tabernacle to a fixed place of worship.

was sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide
The dimensions given here, "sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide," reflect the grandeur and majesty of the temple. A cubit, an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters, indicates that the temple was approximately 90 feet long and 30 feet wide. These measurements underscore the temple's significance and the resources dedicated to its construction. The specific dimensions also reflect the divine instructions given to Solomon, ensuring that the temple would be a fitting place for God's presence.

according to the old standard
This phrase, "according to the old standard," suggests adherence to traditional measurements and practices. The Hebrew term for "standard" (מִדָּה, middah) implies a measure or norm, indicating that Solomon followed established guidelines, possibly those used in the construction of the tabernacle or other sacred structures. This adherence to tradition underscores the continuity of worship practices and the importance of maintaining a connection to the past while moving forward in faith. It reflects a respect for the divine order and the wisdom of previous generations in the service of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon was the third king of Israel. Known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, he was tasked with constructing the Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites.

2. The House of God (Temple)
This refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which Solomon built as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and a center for Israelite worship. It symbolized God's presence among His people.

3. Foundation
The foundation mentioned here refers to the initial stage of the Temple's construction. It signifies the beginning of a significant project that would become a focal point of Israelite religious life.

4. Cubits
An ancient unit of measurement used in the construction of the Temple. The dimensions given (sixty cubits long and twenty cubits wide) reflect the grandeur and sacredness of the structure.

5. Old Standard
This phrase indicates that the measurements were based on traditional or established standards, possibly referring to the measurements used in the Tabernacle or other ancient structures.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Foundations
Just as Solomon laid a strong foundation for the Temple, we must lay a strong spiritual foundation in our lives, rooted in Christ and His teachings.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Temple was a symbol of God's presence. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence within us.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific measurements and standards used in the Temple's construction remind us of the importance of reverence and attention to detail in our worship and service to God.

Continuity and Tradition in Faith
The use of the "old standard" highlights the value of tradition and continuity in our faith practices, encouraging us to respect and learn from the past while moving forward in our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the foundation of the Temple teach us about the importance of having a strong spiritual foundation in our own lives?

2. How can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are living as temples of the Holy Spirit, reflecting God's presence in our daily actions?

3. In what ways can we incorporate reverence and attention to detail in our worship practices today?

4. How does understanding the continuity between the Tabernacle and the Temple enhance our appreciation of God's plan for His people?

5. How can we balance respecting traditional faith practices with embracing new ways to grow in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6:2
This verse provides a parallel account of the Temple's dimensions, offering additional details about its construction and Solomon's role.

Exodus 26:15-30
These verses describe the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for God before the Temple was built. The use of cubits and specific measurements connects the Temple to its predecessor, emphasizing continuity in worship practices.

Ephesians 2:19-22
This New Testament passage speaks of believers as a spiritual temple, with Christ as the cornerstone, drawing a parallel between the physical Temple and the spiritual community of believers.