King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 6:31 Mean?

1 Kings 6:31 in the King James Version says “And for the entering of the oracle he made doors of olive tree: the lintel and side posts were a fifth part of the wall....” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And for the entering of the oracle he made doors of olive tree: the lintel and side posts were a fifth part of the wall. a fifth: or, fivesquare”

1 Kings 6:31 · King James Version

Context

29

And he carved all the walls of the house round about with carved figures of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers, within and without. open flowers: Heb. openings of flowers

30

And the floor of the house he overlaid with gold, within and without.

31

And for the entering of the oracle he made doors of olive tree: the lintel and side posts were a fifth part of the wall. a fifth: or, fivesquare

32

The two doors also were of olive tree; and he carved upon them carvings of cherubims and palm trees and open flowers, and overlaid them with gold, and spread gold upon the cherubims, and upon the palm trees. two: or, leaves of the doors open flowers: Heb. openings of flowers

33

So also made he for the door of the temple posts of olive tree, a fourth part of the wall. a fourth: or, foursquare

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Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
And for the entering of the oracle he made doors of olive tree: the lintel and side posts were a fifth part of the wall.

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of construction of the temple, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy.

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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

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. Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE) represented Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity.

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 the temple as God's dwelling place help us understand Christ's incarnation and the church as God's temple today?
  2. What does Solomon's prayer and dedication teach about approaching God in worship and prayer?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְאֵת֙1 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

פֶּ֣תַח2 of 10

“And for the entering”

H6607

an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way

הַדְּבִ֔יר3 of 10

“of the oracle”

H1687

the shrine or innermost part of the sanctuary

עָשָׂ֖ה4 of 10

“he made”

H6213

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

דַּלְת֣וֹת5 of 10

“doors”

H1817

something swinging, i.e., the valve of a door

עֲצֵי6 of 10

“tree”

H6086

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

שָׁ֑מֶן7 of 10

“of olive”

H8081

grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness

הָאַ֥יִל8 of 10

“the lintel”

H352

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

מְזוּז֖וֹת9 of 10

“and side posts”

H4201

a door-post (as prominent)

חֲמִשִֽׁית׃10 of 10

“were a fifth part”

H2549

fifth; also a fifth

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 6:31 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 6:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 10:19-20Ephesians 3:18John 10:9John 14:6

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