1 Kings 7:17-21

17 A network of interwoven chains adorned the capitals on top of the pillars, seven for each capital.
18 He made pomegranates in two rows[a] encircling each network to decorate the capitals on top of the pillars.[b] He did the same for each capital.
19 The capitals on top of the pillars in the portico were in the shape of lilies, four cubits[c] high.
20 On the capitals of both pillars, above the bowl-shaped part next to the network, were the two hundred pomegranates in rows all around.
21 He erected the pillars at the portico of the temple. The pillar to the south he named Jakin[d] and the one to the north Boaz.[e]

1 Kings 7:17-21 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 7

This chapter gives an account of some buildings of Solomon for himself, 1Ki 7:1-12; and of other things for the use of the temple; of two pillars of brass, 1Ki 7:13-22; of the molten sea, 1Ki 7:23-26; and of ten bases, and ten layers on them, 1Ki 7:27-39; with other utensils and ornaments, 1Ki 7:40-51.

Cross References 2

  • 1. ver 18; 2 Chronicles 3:16; 2 Chronicles 4:13; Jeremiah 52:23
  • 2. 1 Kings 6:3; 2 Chronicles 3:17

Footnotes 5

  • [a]. Two Hebrew manuscripts and Septuagint; most Hebrew manuscripts "made the pillars, and there were two rows"
  • [b]. Many Hebrew manuscripts and Syriac; most Hebrew manuscripts "pomegranates"
  • [c]. That is, about 6 feet or about 1.8 meters; also in verse 38
  • [d]. "Jakin" probably means "he establishes."
  • [e]. "Boaz" probably means "in him is strength."
Scripture quoted by permission.  Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.  NIV®.  Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica.  All rights reserved worldwide.