2 chronicles 3:10 - In the most holy place he made two cherubim by carving; and they overlaid them with gold.

Generated Verse: 2 chronicles 3:10

What does "2 chronicles 3:10" mean?


This verse describes a specific element of the Temple that King Solomon built in Jerusalem, according to the Old Testament book of 2 Chronicles. Let's break down the meaning:

"In the most holy place...": This refers to the "Holy of Holies," the innermost sanctuary of the Temple. It was considered the most sacred space, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept (or in later traditions, a representation of God's presence was believed to reside).

"...he made two cherubim by carving...": Cherubim (plural of cherub) were angelic beings often associated with guarding sacred spaces or representing God's throne. These weren't painted or molded; they were carved from wood (likely olive wood or cypress wood, according to other verses). This detail suggests they were substantial, three-dimensional figures.

"...and they overlaid them with gold.": After being carved, the cherubim were covered, or plated, with gold. This would have made them appear magnificent and valuable, reflecting the importance and sanctity of the Holy of Holies. The gold would have also symbolized purity, divinity, and royalty.

In essence, the verse describes the creation and adornment of two large, carved cherubim statues that were placed in the most sacred room of the Temple, the Holy of Holies. These cherubim were a key part of the Temple's symbolism and represented God's presence and glory.

Significance and Symbolism:

Guardians of the Sacred: Cherubim often served as guardians of holy places, like the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve's expulsion (Genesis 3:24). Their presence in the Holy of Holies would suggest a similar guarding role, protecting God's presence.
Throne of God: Some interpretations see the cherubim as part of God's throne. Psalm 80:1 refers to God as "enthroned above the cherubim." This aligns with the idea that the Ark of the Covenant, traditionally housed between the cherubim, was God's footstool.
God's Glory and Majesty: The use of gold, a precious and highly valued material, emphasized the splendor and majesty of God.
A Place of Encounter: The Holy of Holies, with the cherubim, was the designated place where the High Priest could enter once a year (on the Day of Atonement) to make atonement for the sins of the people. It was a place of unique access to God.

This verse, and the cherubim it describes, are an important part of understanding the Temple's design and the beliefs of the ancient Israelites regarding God's presence and relationship with his people.