The inventory of temple articles refers to the detailed listing and description of sacred items used in the worship and service of the Lord in the temple, as recorded in various passages of the Bible. These articles were integral to the religious practices and rituals of ancient Israel and held significant spiritual and cultural importance.

Solomon's Temple

The construction of Solomon's Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6-7 and 2 Chronicles 3-4, included a comprehensive inventory of sacred articles. Solomon, in his wisdom and dedication to the Lord, ensured that the temple was furnished with items of the highest quality. The articles included:

· The Altar of Burnt Offering: Made of bronze, it was used for sacrifices (2 Chronicles 4:1).
· The Sea of Cast Metal: A large basin for the priests to wash in, supported by twelve oxen (1 Kings 7:23-26).
· Ten Lavers: Smaller basins for washing the offerings (2 Chronicles 4:6).
· Golden Lampstands: Ten lampstands of pure gold, five on the south side and five on the north (1 Kings 7:49).
· Tables of Showbread: Ten tables for the bread of the Presence (2 Chronicles 4:8).
· Various Utensils: Including bowls, censers, and other items made of gold and silver (1 Kings 7:50).

The Return from Exile

Following the Babylonian exile, the return of the exiles under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua included the restoration of temple worship and the return of sacred articles. Ezra 1:7-11 records the inventory of items returned by King Cyrus of Persia:

· Gold and Silver Articles: Including basins, knives, and other utensils.
· Total of 5,400 Articles: These were carefully counted and returned to Jerusalem to be used in the rebuilt temple.

The Second Temple

The Second Temple, though not as grand as Solomon's, also contained essential articles for worship. The prophet Haggai encouraged the people to rebuild the temple, and the articles were once again central to the worship practices. The menorah, altar of incense, and table of showbread were among the key items.

Symbolism and Significance

The temple articles were not merely functional; they held deep symbolic meaning. They represented God's covenant with Israel, His holiness, and His presence among His people. The meticulous care in crafting and maintaining these items underscored the reverence due to God and the importance of purity in worship.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the writer of Hebrews reflects on the temple articles, emphasizing their symbolic role in foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice and the new covenant (Hebrews 9:1-5). The temple and its articles served as a shadow of the heavenly realities fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

The inventory of temple articles, therefore, is a testament to the rich liturgical heritage of Israel and the continuity of God's redemptive plan through history.