The Temple in Jerusalem, often referred to as Solomon's Temple or the First Temple, holds a significant place in biblical history as the central place of worship for the Israelites. Its construction, dimensions, and materials are detailed primarily in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Dimensions of the Temple

The Temple's dimensions are meticulously recorded in 1 Kings 6 and 2 Chronicles 3. The structure was built on Mount Moriah, the site provided by King David, Solomon's father. According to 1 Kings 6:2 , "The temple that King Solomon built for the LORD was sixty cubits long, twenty cubits wide, and thirty cubits high." A cubit is generally considered to be about 18 inches or 45 centimeters, making the Temple approximately 90 feet long, 30 feet wide, and 45 feet high.

The Temple was divided into several key areas:

1. The Vestibule (Porch): The entrance hall, or porch, was 20 cubits wide and 10 cubits deep (1 Kings 6:3). This area served as the entryway into the sacred space.

2. The Holy Place: This main hall was 40 cubits long and 20 cubits wide. It housed the altar of incense, the table for the showbread, and the golden lampstands.

3. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies): This inner sanctuary was a perfect cube, 20 cubits by 20 cubits by 20 cubits (1 Kings 6:20). It contained the Ark of the Covenant and was separated from the Holy Place by a veil.

4. Side Chambers: Surrounding the Temple were three accounts of side chambers, which were used for storage and other purposes (1 Kings 6:5-6).

Materials of the Temple

The construction of the Temple utilized a variety of materials, reflecting both the wealth of Solomon's kingdom and the sacred purpose of the building.

1. Stone: The foundation and much of the structure were made of large, costly stones. 1 Kings 5:17 notes, "At the king’s command they removed from the quarry large blocks of high-grade stone to provide a foundation of dressed stone for the temple."

2. Cedar and Fir Wood: The interior of the Temple was lined with cedar wood, imported from Lebanon, known for its durability and fragrance. Fir wood was also used, particularly for the floors (1 Kings 6:15-16).

3. Gold: The interior was overlaid with gold, signifying the glory and majesty of God. 1 Kings 6:21 states, "So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold, and he extended gold chains across the front of the inner sanctuary, which was overlaid with gold."

4. Bronze: The two pillars at the entrance, named Jachin and Boaz, were made of bronze, as were the Sea (a large basin) and various utensils used in the Temple service (1 Kings 7:15-16, 23).

5. Ivory and Precious Stones: The Temple was adorned with precious stones and ivory, adding to its splendor and beauty (2 Chronicles 3:6).

The construction of the Temple was a monumental task, taking seven years to complete (1 Kings 6:38). It stood as a testament to the covenant between God and Israel, serving as the focal point of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.