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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 7 - Verse 23

7:23
And he made a molten sea, ten cubits from the one brim to the other: it was round all about, and his height was five cubits: and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.

Meaning

The verse describes the creation of a molten sea by King Solomon for the temple in Jerusalem. The sea was a large basin used for religious rituals such as washing and purification. The dimensions provided in the verse illustrate the grand scale of the sea, with a diameter of ten cubits and a height of five cubits. The sea was round in shape, symbolizing eternity and perfection. The line of thirty cubits that encompassed the sea represented completeness and wholeness. This verse showcases the meticulous construction of the temple and the attention to detail in every aspect of its design. It emphasizes the importance of reverence and dedication in the worship of God, as reflected in the elaborate craftsmanship of the molten sea. Overall, this verse highlights the significance of ceremonial rituals in religious practices and the role of symbolic objects in connecting worshippers with the divine.

Theological Overview

In the Old Testament, specifically in 1 Kings 7:23, there is a description of the construction of a 'molten sea' in the temple of Solomon. This verse describes the dimensions of this molten sea, which was a large basin used for ceremonial washing. The theological interpretation of this verse can vary, but it is generally seen as a symbol of cleansing and purification. The fact that it was round all about could symbolize wholeness and completeness, while the measurements of ten cubits from brim to brim and five cubits in height could represent order and balance. The line of thirty cubits that compassed it round about could symbolize the idea of encompassing or surrounding something completely. In terms of word studies, the use of words like 'molten sea' and 'cubits' provide insight into the materials and measurements used in ancient temple construction. Overall, this verse offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and symbolism found in the construction of the temple of Solomon.

American Standard Version

And he made the molten sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and the height thereof was five cubits; and a line of thirty cubits compassed it round about.
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