2 kings 25:17 - The height of the one pillar was eighteen cubits, and a capital of brass was on it. The height of the capital was three cubits, with network and pomegranates on the capital around it, all of brass; and the second pillar with its network was like these.

Generated Verse: 2 kings 25:17

What does "2 kings 25:17" mean?


This verse describes the measurements and ornamentation of the two bronze pillars that stood at the entrance of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem. Let's break down the details:

"The height of the one pillar was eighteen cubits...": This tells us the height of the pillar itself (excluding the capital). A cubit is an ancient unit of measurement, roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm (around 18 inches or 45 centimeters). So, the pillar was about 27 feet (8.1 meters) tall.
"...and a capital of brass was on it.": The capital is the decorative top of the pillar, like the head of a column. It was made of brass (or bronze).
"The height of the capital was three cubits...": The capital was about 4.5 feet (1.35 meters) tall.
"...with network and pomegranates on the capital around it, all of brass...": This describes the decoration on the capital. "Network" likely refers to a lattice-like or woven design. Pomegranates were a common decorative motif in ancient Israel, often symbolizing fruitfulness and prosperity. The entire decorative element was made of brass/bronze.
"...and the second pillar with its network was like these.": This indicates that there were two identical pillars with identical decorations.

Significance:

The pillars were important architectural features of the Temple, signifying granduer and likely had symbolic meaning. The Bible records them as having names: Jachin and Boaz (1 Kings 7:21). Interpretations of their significance include:

Stability and strength: Pillars represent stability.
Reminders of God's presence and promises: Some interpret the names and imagery as reminders of God's promises to David and his descendants.

Context in 2 Kings 25:

It's crucial to understand that this description appears in the context of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. Verse 13 mentions that the Babylonians broke the bronze pillars of the Temple into pieces. Therefore, this verse is part of a somber account of the Temple's desecration and the loss of a central place of worship and national identity for the Israelites. The precise descriptions, even in destruction, highlight the initial glory of the Temple that was now lost.

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