Interior design and ornamentation in the Bible reflect the cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic values of ancient Israel and the surrounding regions. The Scriptures provide numerous examples of how spaces were designed and adorned, often with a focus on the worship of God, the expression of divine beauty, and the reflection of heavenly realities.

Tabernacle and Temple Design

The most detailed biblical accounts of interior design and ornamentation are found in the descriptions of the Tabernacle and the Temple. The Tabernacle, as described in Exodus, was a portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. God provided Moses with specific instructions for its construction and decoration, emphasizing the use of fine materials and skilled craftsmanship. "You are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make it according to all that I show you—the pattern of the Tabernacle as well as the pattern of all its furnishings" (Exodus 25:8-9).

The interior of the Tabernacle featured rich tapestries, gold-plated furniture, and intricate designs, symbolizing the holiness and majesty of God. The use of gold, silver, bronze, and precious stones highlighted the sacredness of the space. The Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense were all crafted with precision and adorned with symbolic motifs.

Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, described in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, was a permanent structure that further exemplified the grandeur of sacred architecture. The Temple's interior was lavishly decorated with cedar wood, gold overlay, and carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers. "He 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" (1 Kings 6:21). The Temple's design was intended to reflect the glory of God and serve as a place of worship and sacrifice.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

The interior design and ornamentation of biblical spaces were not merely for aesthetic purposes but carried deep spiritual significance. The use of specific materials and colors often symbolized divine attributes. Gold represented purity and divinity, while blue, purple, and scarlet yarns were associated with royalty and priesthood. The cherubim and other motifs pointed to heavenly realities and the presence of God.

The design of sacred spaces also served to instruct the Israelites in the holiness and order of God's creation. The detailed patterns and measurements underscored the importance of obedience to God's commands and the reverence due to Him. The beauty and order of these spaces were a reflection of the divine order and harmony intended for creation.

Domestic Spaces and Everyday Life

While the Bible provides extensive details on sacred spaces, it offers less information on the interior design of domestic spaces. However, glimpses into everyday life can be found in various passages. Homes in biblical times were often simple, with basic furnishings such as mats, lamps, and storage jars. Proverbs 24:3-4 highlights the value of wisdom and understanding in building and furnishing a home: "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with every precious and beautiful treasure."

The New Testament also reflects on the spiritual dimension of interior spaces. In 1 Peter 3:3-4 , believers are encouraged to focus on the inner beauty of the heart rather than external adornment: "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight."

Conclusion

The Bible's treatment of interior design and ornamentation reveals a profound connection between physical spaces and spiritual truths. Whether in the grandeur of the Temple or the simplicity of a home, the design and decoration of spaces were seen as expressions of worship, reflections of divine beauty, and reminders of the order and holiness of God's creation.