King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 18:32 Mean?

1 Kings 18:32 in the King James Version says “And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would c...” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.”

1 Kings 18:32 · KJV

Context

30

And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that was broken down.

31

And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the LORD came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:

32

And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.

33

And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.

34

And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.

Read 1 Kings 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of elijah and the prophets of baal, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism. The sacrificial system points forward to Christ's ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling all temple offerings (Hebrews 10:1-18).

The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Elijah's ministry (c. 860-850 BCE) occurred during Ahab's reign, a time of intense spiritual crisis in Israel.

Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
  2. What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
וַיִּבְנֶ֧ה1 of 13

“he built”

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

אֶת2 of 13
H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

הָֽאֲבָנִ֛ים3 of 13

“And with the stones”

H68

a stone

לַמִּזְבֵּֽחַ׃4 of 13

“an altar”

H4196

an altar

בְּשֵׁ֣ם5 of 13

“in the ~”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

יְהוָ֑ה6 of 13

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וַיַּ֣עַשׂ7 of 13

“and he made”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

תְּעָלָ֗ה8 of 13

“a trench”

H8585

a bandage or plaster (as placed upon a wound)

כְּבֵית֙9 of 13

“as great as would contain”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

סָאתַ֣יִם10 of 13

“two measures”

H5429

a seah, or certain measure (as determinative) for grain

זֶ֔רַע11 of 13

“of seed”

H2233

seed; figuratively, fruit, plant, sowing-time, posterity

סָבִ֖יב12 of 13

“about”

H5439

(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around

לַמִּזְבֵּֽחַ׃13 of 13

“an altar”

H4196

an altar

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Kings 18:32 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Kings 18:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Colossians 3:17Exodus 20:24-251 Samuel 7:171 Samuel 7:9Judges 21:41 Corinthians 10:31

Test Your Knowledge

1 Kings 18 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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