SOLOMON'S TEMPLE

(Message by Tanny Keng)

0. Introduction

a) Solomon's temple was a beautiful sight. It took over seven years to build and was a magnificent building containing gold, silver, bronze, and cedar. This house for God was without equal. The description is found in 2 Chronicles 2-4.

1. Solomon's temple (960-586 B.C.)

2. Furnishings 

a) Cherubim: represented heavenly beings, symbolized God's presence and holiness (gold-plated, 15 feet wide).

b) Ark of the covenant: contained the law written on two tablets, symbolized God's presence with Israel (wood overlaid with gold).

c) Veil: separated the hold place from the Most Holy Place (blue, purple, and crimson yarn and fine linen, with cherubim worked into it).

d) Doors: between holy place and Most Holy Place (wood overlaid with gold).

e) Golden tables (wood overlaid with gold), gold lamp stands (with seven lamps on each stand), altar of incense (wood overlaid with gold): instruments for priestly functions in the holy place.

f) Bronze pillars: named Jachin (meaning "he establishes") and Boaz (meaning "in him is strength") - taken together they could mean "God provides me strength."

g) Altar: for burning of sacrifices (bronze).

h) Sea: for priests' washing (had 12,000 gallon capacity).

i) Bronze lavers: for washing the sacrifices (water basins on wheel bases).

The End ...