1 kings 7:29 - and on the panels that were between the ledges were lions, oxen, and cherubim; and on the ledges there was a pedestal above; and beneath the lions and oxen were wreaths of hanging work.

Generated Verse: 1 kings 7:29

What does "1 kings 7:29" mean?


This verse describes the ornate decoration of the bronze lavers (large basins) that were made for Solomon's Temple, as detailed in 1 Kings chapter 7. Let's break it down piece by piece:

"and on the panels that were between the ledges were lions, oxen, and cherubim;"
Panels: These were likely rectangular surfaces set within a frame or structure on the laver's stand.
Ledges: These provided the frame, defining the panels within which the decorations were placed.
Lions, Oxen, and Cherubim: These were cast bronze figures adorning the panels. This indicates the richness and symbolic importance of the temple. Lions often symbolize royalty and strength, oxen represent service and sacrifice, and cherubim were heavenly beings, guardians of sacred spaces.
"and on the ledges there was a pedestal above;"
Ledges: as mentioned above, these are parts of the frame
Pedestal: This was a raised platform or base located on top of the ledges that formed part of the laver's stand. It may have been intended for the base of the bronze basin to rest on.
"and beneath the lions and oxen were wreaths of hanging work."
Beneath the lions and oxen: This indicates the location of these decorative elements, below the animal figures on the panels.
Wreaths of hanging work: These were decorative bands resembling garlands or festoons, perhaps made of cast bronze. The "hanging work" suggests they had a three-dimensional, dangling appearance, adding to the elaborate decoration.

In essence, the verse describes highly ornamented panels on the stands for the bronze lavers. The panels featured a combination of animal figures (lions and oxen) and angelic beings (cherubim), arranged in tiers with decorative wreaths. The ledges of the frame for these panels were topped with pedestals, on which the bronze basins would be placed.

Significance and Interpretation:

Opulence and Royal Power: The verse underscores the great wealth and power of King Solomon, who could commission such elaborate and expensive items for the temple. The materials, craftsmanship, and the symbols used all point to a grand vision of divine worship.
Symbolic Representations: The use of lions, oxen, and cherubim is deliberate and symbolic. It reflects the religious worldview of the time. The cherubim were symbols of God's presence, and the animals may have had associations with royalty, strength, and sacrifice.
Temple Design: The description provides a glimpse into the aesthetic principles of Solomon's Temple, which was a highly structured and ornate building designed to evoke a sense of awe and reverence.

The verse doesn't just describe decorations; it gives insights into the priorities, beliefs, and artistic sensibilities of the people who built and used Solomon's Temple. The level of detail suggests the importance placed on even the functional elements of the temple.

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