1 Kings 7

The next item was the Sea of cast metal (verses 23–26), a huge basin measuring five meters in diameter. This corresponded to the much smaller “basin for washing” in the original tabernacle (Exodus 30:1721). The basin was used by the priests to ceremonially wash themselves. This washing demonstrated the spiritual truth that only those who are cleansed from sin can approach God and be accepted by Him (1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5; Hebrews 10:22).

27–40 Huram next made ten movable stands (verses 27–37) and ten bronze basins to fit inside the stands (verses 38–39). These basins were used to wash various parts of the sacrificed animals (2 Chronicles 4:6).

41–47 In these verses the writer lists all the bronze furnishings that Huram made for the temple.

48–50 In these final verses, the writer lists the golden furnishings of the temple. They included the golden altar (verse 48)—that is, the “altar of incense” (Exodus 30:1–10)—and the golden table, on which was placed the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:23–30). In Solomon’s temple there were actually ten golden tables (2 Chronicles 4:8) taking the place of the single table in the original tabernacle. The bread of the Presence,” set out fresh each Sabbath, symbolized continued communion and fellowship with God—life in His presence.

In verse 49, ten golden lampstands are mentioned; these took the place of the single lampstand in the original tabernacle (Exodus 25:31–40). The lampstands represented God’s glory.

51 Here the writer mentions the things . . . David had dedicated and which Solomon placed in the treasuries of the temple. These “things"—the silver and gold and the furnishings—were valuable articles that David had obtained as plunder in battle or as tribute from neighboring kings seeking his favor. All these items David had “dedicated"—handed over—to the Lord. These items were in addition to the things David had already provided for the temple (see 1 Chronicles 29:1–5). David joyfully thanked God for the privilege of contributing to His work (see 1 Chronicles 29:10–20) and he inspired others to do likewise. In this, David has provided for us an example of godly giving and godly leadership.