Bible Commentaries

Verses 1-26

Passing to the Temple proper, the prophet portrayed it first from the outside, describing the actual Temple, with its Holy Place, and Holy of Holies, then the side chambers; and, finally, another separate building, ending with the general dimensions of the inner court, the house buildings, and the separate building.

This was followed by a description of the woodwork within, and its ornamentation. The technicalities are difficult to follow, but it is clear that the general effect of the beautiful work was of cherubim and palm trees, which symbolized the perfection of spiritual appreciation and material well-being.

It is interesting to notice the two types of life represented by the two faces of the cherubim, one being a man and the other a young lion. Interpreted by the earlier symbolism of the prophecy, this suggested perfect realization of created life, and its perfect exercise in kingly dominion.

Both the Holy Place and the Holiest of all were entered by two-leaved doors, each of the leaves being again divided, making them what we would call folding doors. These too were adorned with cherubim and palm trees.