King James Version
What Does 1 Kings 7:3 Mean?
“And it was covered with cedar above upon the beams, that lay on forty five pillars, fifteen in a row. beams: Heb. ribs”
Context
1
But Solomon was building his own house thirteen years, and he finished all his house.
2
He built also the house of the forest of Lebanon; the length thereof was an hundred cubits, and the breadth thereof fifty cubits, and the height thereof thirty cubits, upon four rows of cedar pillars, with cedar beams upon the pillars.
3
And it was covered with cedar above upon the beams, that lay on forty five pillars, fifteen in a row. beams: Heb. ribs
4
And there were windows in three rows, and light was against light in three ranks. light was: Heb. sight against sight
5
And all the doors and posts were square, with the windows: and light was against light in three ranks. doors: or, spaces and pillars were square in prospect
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise CommentaryChapter 7
Chapter Outline
Solomon's buildings.(1-12)
Furniture of the temple.(13-47)
Vessels of gold.(48-51)
**Verses 1-12**
All Solomon's buildings, though beautiful, were intended for use. Solomon began with the temple; he built for God first, and then his other buildings. The surest foundations of lasting prosperity are laid in early piety. He was thirteen years building his house, yet he built the temple in little more than seven years; not that he was more exact, but less eager in building his own house, than in building God's. We ought to prefer God's honour before our own ease and satisfaction.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
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 7:3 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 7:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge