The interior decorations of biblical structures, particularly the Tabernacle and the Temple, hold significant theological and symbolic meaning. These decorations were not merely ornamental but served to reflect the glory and holiness of God, as well as to instruct the Israelites in worship and reverence.

The Tabernacle:

The Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. Its interior was richly adorned, reflecting the divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The materials used were of the finest quality, including gold, silver, bronze, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen (Exodus 25:3-8).

The Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) were the two main sections of the Tabernacle. The Holy Place contained the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense, each crafted with intricate detail. The Golden Lampstand, or Menorah, was made of pure gold and featured almond blossoms, buds, and flowers (Exodus 25:31-36). The Table of Showbread was overlaid with pure gold and held the Bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:23-30).

The veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place was made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim skillfully woven into it (Exodus 26:31). This veil symbolized the separation between God and man, a barrier that was later torn at the crucifixion of Christ (Matthew 27:51).

Solomon's Temple:

Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, was a permanent structure built in Jerusalem. Its construction and decoration are detailed in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. The Temple was renowned for its grandeur and splendor, reflecting the wealth and devotion of King Solomon and the people of Israel.

The interior of the Temple was lined with cedar wood, overlaid with pure gold, and adorned with carvings of gourds and open flowers (1 Kings 6:18-22). The inner sanctuary, or the Most Holy Place, housed the Ark of the Covenant and was overlaid with gold. Two cherubim, also overlaid with gold, stood in the inner sanctuary, their wings spread over the Ark (1 Kings 6:23-28).

The walls of the Temple were decorated with carvings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, symbolizing the Garden of Eden and the presence of God (1 Kings 6:29). The floors of the Temple were also overlaid with gold, emphasizing the sacredness of the space (1 Kings 6:30).

Symbolism and Significance:

The interior decorations of these sacred spaces were not merely for aesthetic purposes but were deeply symbolic. Gold, a symbol of purity and divinity, was used extensively, signifying the holiness of God. The cherubim represented the heavenly beings that surround God's throne, emphasizing His majesty and the reverence due to Him.

The use of specific colors, such as blue, purple, and scarlet, held symbolic meanings. Blue often represented the heavens, purple signified royalty, and scarlet symbolized sacrifice and redemption. These colors, woven into the fabric of the Tabernacle and Temple, pointed to the divine nature of God and His covenant relationship with Israel.

The intricate designs and costly materials used in the interior decorations underscored the importance of worship and the need for a sacred space set apart for encountering God. These elements served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of God's presence among them and His desire for holiness and obedience from His people.