2 Chronicles 3:7

He overlaid its beams, thresholds, walls, and doors with gold, and he carved cherubim on the walls.

Study Bible

He overlaid
The act of overlaying in the context of the temple construction signifies a covering or a transformation. The Hebrew root word "צָפָה" (tsaphah) implies a meticulous and careful application, suggesting the importance of the temple as a sacred space. This overlaying with gold symbolizes purity, divinity, and the glory of God, reflecting the heavenly reality on earth.

the temple beams, thresholds, walls, and doors
Each element of the temple mentioned here—beams, thresholds, walls, and doors—represents structural and functional components of the sacred space. The beams provide support, the thresholds mark entry, the walls offer protection, and the doors allow access. Historically, the temple was the center of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The comprehensive overlaying of these elements with gold signifies the holiness and sanctity of the entire structure, emphasizing that every part of the temple is dedicated to God's glory.

with gold
Gold, in biblical times, was a symbol of wealth, purity, and divine majesty. Its use in the temple construction underscores the value and honor attributed to the worship of God. The Hebrew word for gold, "זָהָב" (zahav), is often associated with kingship and the divine. The lavish use of gold in the temple serves as a reminder of the splendor and majesty of God, who is worthy of the finest offerings.

and he carved cherubim on the walls
The cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence of God. In Hebrew, "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim) are depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, as seen in the Garden of Eden and the Ark of the Covenant. The carving of cherubim on the walls of the temple signifies the protection and holiness of the space, as well as the constant presence of God. It serves as a visual reminder to the worshipers of the divine guardianship and the heavenly reality that the temple represents.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who was tasked with building the temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling his father David's vision.

2. Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place where God's presence was to dwell among His people, serving as a central place of worship.

3. Gold Overlay
Symbolizes the purity, holiness, and divine nature of the temple, reflecting God's glory.

4. Cherubim
Angelic beings carved on the walls, representing the presence and protection of God.

5. Jerusalem
The city chosen by God as the spiritual center for His people, where the temple was constructed.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Gold
Gold in the temple signifies the value and purity that God desires in our worship and lives. We are called to offer our best to God, reflecting His holiness in our actions and attitudes.

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The presence of cherubim in the temple reminds us of God's holiness and the reverence we should have in His presence. It calls us to live with an awareness of God's majesty and protection.

The Role of the Temple
The temple was a place where God met with His people. Today, as believers, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to live in a way that honors God, maintaining purity and holiness.

Continuity of Worship
The design elements of the temple connect to the Tabernacle and point forward to the New Jerusalem, showing the continuity of God's plan for worship and His desire to dwell with His people.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The temple foreshadows Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. Our worship should center on Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of gold in the temple construction reflect the value we should place on our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives reflect the holiness symbolized by the cherubim in the temple?

3. How does understanding our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit influence our daily decisions and actions?

4. What are some ways we can maintain continuity in our worship practices, drawing from biblical examples?

5. How does the temple's design and purpose point us to the work and person of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
The instructions for the Tabernacle, which served as a precursor to the temple, also involved the use of gold and cherubim, highlighting continuity in worship and design.

1 Kings 6
Provides a parallel account of the temple's construction, offering additional details about Solomon's dedication to building a house for the Lord.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, where gold and precious stones are used, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with His people.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings as a shadow of the heavenly realities, pointing to Christ's ultimate sacrifice and priesthood.