2 Chronicles 4:6

He also made ten basins for washing and placed five on the south side and five on the north. The parts of the burnt offering were rinsed in them, but the priests used the Sea for washing.

Study Bible

He also made ten basins for washing
The phrase "He also made ten basins for washing" refers to the craftsmanship of King Solomon, who was responsible for the construction of the temple and its furnishings. The Hebrew word for "basins" is "kiyyor," which denotes a large bowl or laver used for ceremonial washing. This highlights the importance of ritual purity in the worship practices of ancient Israel. The number ten signifies completeness and divine order, suggesting that these basins were sufficient for the needs of the temple service.

and placed five on the south side and five on the north
The strategic placement of the basins, "five on the south side and five on the north," indicates a balanced and symmetrical design, reflecting the order and precision that characterized the temple's construction. This arrangement ensured accessibility for the priests, facilitating the efficient performance of their duties. The north and south orientation may also symbolize the universality of God's covenant, extending from one end of the earth to the other.

In them the things to be used for the burnt offerings were rinsed
The phrase "In them the things to be used for the burnt offerings were rinsed" underscores the necessity of cleanliness and sanctity in the sacrificial system. The Hebrew term for "rinsed" is "shataph," which implies a thorough washing. This practice was essential to maintain the holiness required for offerings presented to God, emphasizing the need for purity in worship and the removal of any defilement.

but the Sea was to be used by the priests for washing
The "Sea" refers to the large bronze basin, also known as the "Molten Sea," which was a significant feature of the temple. The Hebrew word "yam" is used here, typically meaning "sea," but in this context, it denotes the massive laver used by the priests. This basin was reserved for the priests' purification, highlighting the distinction between the general washing of sacrificial items and the specific cleansing required for those who ministered before the Lord. The Sea's immense size and capacity symbolize the abundance of God's provision for purification and the depth of His grace available to cleanse His servants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple, including its furnishings.

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

3. The Basins
Ten large containers used for washing the items used in burnt offerings.

4. The Sea
A large basin used by the priests for ceremonial washing.

5. The Priests
The Levitical priests who performed the temple rituals and sacrifices.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Cleansing
The basins and the Sea symbolize the need for purification before approaching God. This reflects the holiness of God and the sinfulness of man.

Role of the Priests
The priests' use of the Sea for washing highlights their role as mediators between God and the people, foreshadowing Christ as our ultimate High Priest.

Preparation for Worship
The meticulous preparation and cleansing rituals underscore the importance of preparing our hearts before worshiping God.

Old Covenant and New Covenant
The physical washings of the Old Covenant point to the spiritual cleansing available through Jesus Christ in the New Covenant.

Holiness in Daily Life
Just as the priests needed to be clean to serve, believers are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of the basins and the Sea in the temple reflect the holiness of God and the need for purification?

2. In what ways does the role of the priests in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

3. How can we apply the principle of preparation for worship in our personal and communal worship practices today?

4. What are some New Testament scriptures that discuss spiritual cleansing, and how do they relate to the physical washings in the Old Testament?

5. How can the concept of holiness, as demonstrated by the temple rituals, be applied to our daily lives as Christians?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:17-21
This passage describes the bronze basin Moses made for the tabernacle, which served a similar purpose for washing.

1 Kings 7:23-26
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the Sea and basins, emphasizing their importance in temple worship.

Hebrews 9:10
Discusses the ceremonial washings and regulations of the Old Covenant, pointing to their fulfillment in Christ.