2 Chronicles 3:7: “He overlaid the ceiling beams, doorframes, walls and doors of the temple with gold, and he carved cherubim on the walls.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues the description of the ornate design of Solomon’s temple, focusing on the lavish use of gold and the intricate carvings of cherubim, or angelic figures. The gold covering every part of the temple’s interior—the beams, doorframes, walls, and doors—signifies the precious and holy nature of this sacred space. Gold, being the most valuable metal, was used to show the worthiness of God’s house and the reverence the people had for His presence.
The cherubim carved into the walls are also significant. In the Bible, cherubim are often associated with the presence of God. They guarded the entrance to the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve sinned (Genesis 3:24) and were depicted on the Ark of the Covenant as guardians of God’s holiness. Their presence in the temple’s design reminded the people that this was not just any building—it was a place where God’s glory would dwell, a holy space that required reverence and awe.
Historical Context
Solomon’s temple, built in the 10th century BC, was one of the most important religious and cultural achievements in ancient Israel. It replaced the portable tabernacle that had been used since the time of Moses. The temple was not only a place of worship but also a symbol of God’s presence with His people.
The use of gold and the carving of cherubim in the temple’s construction were not unique to Israel. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was common to build temples with lavish materials to honor the gods. However, in Israel’s case, these designs weren’t just cultural—they were deeply rooted in their relationship with the one true God. The cherubim in particular were unique to Israel’s faith and reminded the people of God’s covenant and His holiness.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse speaks to the holiness and majesty of God. Covering the temple in gold was a way of demonstrating that this was no ordinary space—it was a place where heaven met earth. The gold symbolized purity and value, reminding the people that God is the most valuable treasure. The carvings of cherubim reinforced the idea that God’s holiness is something to be revered and guarded.
This verse also points to the importance of sacred space in the life of Israel. The temple was where sacrifices were offered and where the people met with God. The gold and cherubim weren’t just decorations—they communicated that approaching God required reverence, and that His presence was both awe-inspiring and holy.
Literary Analysis
The verse is part of a detailed description of the temple’s construction and decoration. The author of Chronicles uses vivid imagery, highlighting the beauty and splendor of the temple to create a sense of awe for the reader. The repetition of the word “gold” emphasizes the grandeur of the temple, while the mention of cherubim draws attention to the temple’s spiritual significance.
The structure of the verse, with its focus on both the physical materials (gold) and the spiritual symbols (cherubim), reflects the dual nature of the temple as both a physical building and a spiritual center. The detailed description invites the reader to imagine the magnificence of the temple and the care that went into making it worthy of God’s presence.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:18-22 – Describes the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, which were symbols of God’s presence and holiness.
- Genesis 3:24 – Cherubim are placed to guard the entrance to the Garden of Eden, representing the separation between sinful humanity and God’s holiness.
- Revelation 21:18-21 – The New Jerusalem is described as having streets of gold and gates adorned with precious stones, reflecting the beauty and value of God’s eternal dwelling place.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with reverence. Just as the temple was adorned with gold and cherubim to reflect God’s holiness, our worship and relationship with God should be marked by awe and respect. While we no longer have a physical temple, our hearts and lives are now the dwelling place of God’s Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we are called to live in a way that reflects His holiness and majesty.
This verse also challenges us to give our best to God, not just in material offerings but in how we live our lives. The gold and cherubim in the temple were outward expressions of the people’s desire to honor God, and we are called to honor Him in all that we do.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s desire to dwell among His people in a way that demonstrates His glory and holiness. God’s love is seen in His willingness to come near to His people, providing them with a temple where they could meet with Him. The beauty and majesty of the temple were expressions of God’s desire for relationship with His people, but they also communicated His holiness—a reminder that God is both near and worthy of reverence.
The presence of cherubim, which were often associated with guarding sacred spaces, also points to God’s love in protecting His holiness and inviting His people to approach Him with the proper respect.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The temple, with its gold and cherubim, pointed forward to something greater—Jesus Christ. In John 2:19-21, Jesus refers to His body as the temple, showing that He is the true dwelling place of God’s presence. Just as the temple was adorned with gold and cherubim to reflect God’s holiness, Jesus embodies the fullness of God’s glory and majesty (Hebrews 1:3).
Through Jesus, we now have direct access to God’s presence. The cherubim once guarded the way to God, but through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the barrier has been removed, and we are invited to come boldly into God’s presence (Hebrews 4:16). Jesus is the fulfillment of everything the temple symbolized—a place where humanity can meet with God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the use of gold and cherubim in the temple teach us about the holiness of God?
- How can we reflect God’s holiness in our own lives, knowing that we are now temples of the Holy Spirit?
- In what ways can we approach God with the reverence and awe that is demonstrated in the temple’s design?
- How does Jesus fulfill the role of the temple, and what does that mean for our relationship with God today?
- How can we give our best to God in worship and in our daily lives, as Solomon did when building and adorning the temple?
This verse challenges us to reflect on the beauty and holiness of God and to live in a way that honors Him. Through Jesus, we have access to God’s presence, and we are called to reflect His glory in our worship and in every aspect of our lives.