2 Chronicles 4:2
He also made the Sea of cast metal. It was circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim, five cubits in height, and thirty cubits in circumference.
He made the Sea of cast metal
The "Sea" refers to a large basin used in the temple for ceremonial washing, symbolizing purification. The Hebrew word for "Sea" is "yam," often used to describe large bodies of water, emphasizing its vastness and importance. The use of "cast metal" indicates advanced metallurgical skills, reflecting the craftsmanship and resources dedicated to the temple, underscoring the importance of purity and preparation in worship.

circular in shape
The circular design of the Sea signifies completeness and eternity, common themes in biblical symbolism. The circle, without beginning or end, reflects God's eternal nature and the wholeness He brings to creation. This design choice also highlights the perfection and divine order intended for the temple's construction.

measuring ten cubits from rim to rim
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The specific dimensions indicate the Sea's grandeur and capacity, serving the practical needs of the priests while also symbolizing the vastness of God's provision and the depth of His cleansing power.

and five cubits high
The height of the Sea, at five cubits, suggests a significant volume, reinforcing its role in ritual purification. The number five often symbolizes grace in biblical numerology, pointing to the grace extended to the Israelites through the sacrificial system and ultimately through Christ.

It took a line of thirty cubits to measure around it
The circumference of thirty cubits emphasizes the Sea's substantial size. The number thirty can symbolize dedication and maturity, as seen in the age when Levites began their temple service. This measurement underscores the dedication required in worship and the maturity of faith needed to approach God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple, including the Sea of cast metal.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where the Israelites worshiped God, built by Solomon.

3. The Sea of Cast Metal
A large basin used for ceremonial washing by the priests, symbolizing purification and readiness for service.
Teaching Points
Symbolism of Purification
The Sea of cast metal represents the need for spiritual cleansing. Just as the priests needed to be clean to serve, we must seek spiritual purity through Christ.

God's Attention to Detail
The precise measurements and craftsmanship of the Sea reflect God's concern for order and beauty in worship. We should strive for excellence in our service to God.

The Role of Rituals
While rituals like washing were important, they pointed to a deeper spiritual truth. Our religious practices should lead us to a closer relationship with God, not just be empty traditions.

The Fulfillment in Christ
The ceremonial washings foreshadow the ultimate cleansing from sin through Jesus. We are reminded of the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice for our purification.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the construction of the Sea of cast metal reflect the importance of purity in our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are done with excellence and attention to detail?

3. How do the rituals and symbols of the Old Testament, like the Sea, find their fulfillment in the New Testament through Christ?

4. What are some modern "rituals" or practices in your faith journey that help you draw closer to God, and how can they become more meaningful?

5. How can understanding the historical and cultural context of the Temple's furnishings enhance our appreciation of God's plan for redemption?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 30:17-21
Describes the bronze basin used for washing, which is a precursor to the Sea of cast metal, emphasizing the importance of purification.

1 Kings 7:23-26
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the Sea, offering additional details and context.

Hebrews 9:9-10
Discusses the symbolic nature of ceremonial washings under the old covenant, pointing to the greater purification through Christ.
Acceptable WorshipW. Clarkson 2 Chronicles 4:1-6
The Furniture of the Holy CourtJ. Wolfendale.2 Chronicles 4:1-10
The Molten SeaHomiletical Commentary2 Chronicles 4:1-10
People
Huram, Solomon
Places
Jordan River, Most Holy Place, Succoth, Zeredah
Topics
Brim, Circular, Compass, Cubits, Height, Line, Measure, Measuring, Metal, Molten, Rim, Round, Shape, Ten, Thirty
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Chronicles 4:2

     7467   temple, Solomon's

2 Chronicles 4:1-2

     4830   height

2 Chronicles 4:1-22

     5207   architecture

2 Chronicles 4:2-6

     5272   craftsmen

Library
The First Part
Of the Apocalyptical Commentaries, according to the Rule of the Apocalyptical Key, on the First Prophecy which is contained in the Seals and Trumpets; with an Introduction concerning the Scene of the Apocalypse. As it is my design to investigate the meaning of the Apocalyptical visions, it is requisite for me to treat, in the first place, of that celestial theatre to which John was called, in order to behold them, exhibited as on a stage, and afterwards of the prophecies in succession, examined by
Joseph Mede—A Key to the Apocalypse

Sanctification.
VI. Objections answered. I will consider those passages of scripture which are by some supposed to contradict the doctrine we have been considering. 1 Kings viii. 46: "If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near," etc. On this passage, I remark:-- 1. That this sentiment in nearly the same language, is repeated in 2 Chron. vi. 26, and in Eccl.
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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