Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. On both sides of the seat were armrests, with a lion standing beside each of them. New Living Translation The throne had six steps and a rounded back. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, and the figure of a lion stood on each side of the throne. English Standard Version The throne had six steps, and the throne had a round top, and on each side of the seat were armrests and two lions standing beside the armrests, Berean Standard Bible The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. King James Bible The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. New King James Version The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round at the back; there were armrests on either side of the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the armrests. New American Standard Bible There were six steps to the throne and a round top to the throne at its back, and armrests on each side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the armrests. NASB 1995 There were six steps to the throne and a round top to the throne at its rear, and arms on each side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the arms. NASB 1977 There were six steps to the throne and a round top to the throne at its rear, and arms on each side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the arms. Legacy Standard Bible There were six steps to the throne and a round top to the throne at its rear, and arms on each side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the arms. Amplified Bible The throne had six steps, and a round top was attached to the throne from the back. On either side of the seat were armrests, and two lions stood beside the armrests. Christian Standard Bible The throne had six steps; there was a rounded top at the back of the throne, armrests on either side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the armrests. Holman Christian Standard Bible The throne had six steps; there was a rounded top at the back of the throne, armrests on either side of the seat, and two lions standing beside the armrests. American Standard Version There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was round behind; and there were stays on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the stays. English Revised Version There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the stays. GOD'S WORD® Translation Six steps led to the throne. Carved into the back of the throne was a calf 's head. There were armrests on both sides of the seat. Two lions stood beside the armrests. International Standard Version Six steps led up to the throne, which had a round canopy fastened to the rear of the throne and armrests on each side of the seat and two lions standing on either side of each armrest. NET Bible There were six steps leading up to the throne, and the back of it was rounded on top. The throne had two armrests with a statue of a lion standing on each side. New Heart English Bible There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was round behind; and there were stays on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the stays. Webster's Bible Translation The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThe throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. World English Bible There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was round behind; and there were armrests on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the armrests. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionthe throne has six steps, and a round top [is] to the throne behind it, and hands [are] on this [side] and on that, to the place of the sitting, and two lions are standing near the hands, Young's Literal Translation six steps hath the throne, and a round top is to the throne behind it, and hands are on this side and on that, unto the place of the sitting, and two lions are standing near the hands, Smith's Literal Translation Six steps to the throne, and the head rounded to the throne from its back parts: and hands hence and thence upon the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the hands. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleIt had six steps: and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were two hands on either side holding the seat: and two lions stood, one at each hand. Catholic Public Domain Version The throne had six steps, and the summit of the throne was rounded in the back section. And there were two hands, on one side and the other, holding the seat. And two lions were standing beside each hand, New American Bible The throne had six steps, a back with a round top, and an arm on each side of the seat, with two lions standing next to the arms, New Revised Standard Version The throne had six steps. The top of the throne was rounded in the back, and on each side of the seat were arm rests and two lions standing beside the arm rests, Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThe throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind; and there were arm rests on either side at the place of the seat, and two lions stood on either side of the seat. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And he made for the throne six steps and the top of the throne was round from behind it, and the arms on either side at the place of the seat, and two lions stood on either side. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was round behind; and there were arms on either side by the place of the seat, and two lions standing beside the arms. Brenton Septuagint Translation The throne had six steps, and calves in bold relief to the throne behind it, and side-pieces on either hand of the place of the seat, and two lions standing by the side-pieces, Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Solomon's Wealth and Splendor…18Additionally, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold. 19The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. 20Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom.… Cross References 2 Chronicles 9:18 The throne had six steps, and a footstool of gold was attached to it. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. Revelation 4:2-4 At once I was in the Spirit, and I saw a throne standing in heaven, with someone seated on it. / The One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne. / Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and on these thrones sat twenty-four elders dressed in white, with golden crowns on their heads. Psalm 45:6 Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever, and justice is the scepter of Your kingdom. Hebrews 1:8 But about the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever, and justice is the scepter of Your kingdom. Isaiah 6:1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted; and the train of His robe filled the temple. Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, in the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Ezekiel 1:26 Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne with the appearance of sapphire, and on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man. Daniel 7:9 As I continued to watch, thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took His seat. His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. Matthew 25:31 When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. Revelation 3:21 To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. Psalm 89:14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; loving devotion and faithfulness go before You. Jeremiah 17:12 A glorious throne, exalted from the beginning, is the place of our sanctuary. Luke 1:32-33 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, / and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever. His kingdom will never end!” Revelation 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. Psalm 47:8 God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne. Treasury of Scripture The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. Jump to Previous Arm Armrests Arms Calf's Either Hands Head Lions Rear Rests Round Rounded Seat Side Sides Six Standing Stays Steps Stood Throne TopJump to Next Arm Armrests Arms Calf's Either Hands Head Lions Rear Rests Round Rounded Seat Side Sides Six Standing Stays Steps Stood Throne Top1 Kings 10 1. The queen of Sheba admires the wisdom of Solomon14. Solomon's gold 16. His targets 18. The throne of ivory 21. His vessels 24. His presents 26. his chariots and horse 28. his tribute The throne had six steps The six steps leading up to Solomon's throne symbolize the grandeur and majesty of his reign, reflecting the wisdom and wealth bestowed upon him by God. The number six, often associated with human effort and imperfection, contrasts with the divine perfection symbolized by the number seven. This detail highlights the human aspect of Solomon's rule, despite his God-given wisdom. The steps also signify the elevated status of the king, both literally and figuratively, as he ascends to his seat of judgment and authority. and its back had a rounded top There were armrests on both sides of the seat with a lion standing beside each armrest Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonThe king of Israel, known for his wisdom, wealth, and building projects, including the construction of the temple and his own palace. 2. Throne of Solomon A symbol of Solomon's authority and the grandeur of his reign, reflecting the prosperity and splendor of Israel during his time. 3. Lions Representations of strength and majesty, often associated with royalty and divine protection in ancient Near Eastern cultures. 4. Jerusalem The capital city of Israel, where Solomon's throne was located, serving as the political and spiritual center of the nation. 5. Queen of Sheba Although not directly mentioned in this verse, her visit to Solomon (earlier in the chapter) highlights the international recognition of Solomon's wisdom and wealth. Teaching Points Symbol of AuthorityThe throne represents the authority given by God to Solomon. As believers, we are reminded of the authority of Christ, who reigns as King of Kings. Divine Wisdom and Justice Solomon's throne is a reminder of the wisdom and justice that should characterize godly leadership. We are called to seek wisdom from God in our own lives. Majesty and Splendor The detailed description of the throne reflects the majesty of God's creation and His provision. We should recognize and appreciate the beauty and order in God's world. Strength and Protection The lions symbolize strength and protection. As Christians, we can find security in God's strength and His promises to protect and guide us. Legacy and Influence Solomon's throne is a testament to his legacy. We are encouraged to consider the legacy we are building through our actions and decisions. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Kings 10:19?2. How does 1 Kings 10:19 reflect Solomon's God-given wisdom and prosperity? 3. What can we learn about leadership from Solomon's throne design in 1 Kings 10:19? 4. How does Solomon's throne compare to God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3? 5. How can we apply Solomon's example of excellence in our daily work? 6. What does Solomon's throne teach about the importance of honoring God with resources? 7. What is the significance of the twelve lions in 1 Kings 10:19? 8. How does Solomon's throne reflect his wisdom and wealth in 1 Kings 10:19? 9. Why are the lions on the steps important in 1 Kings 10:19? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 10? 11. Is Saul counted among the prophets? 12. Why do 1 Chronicles 19 and 2 Samuel 10 present slight variations in numbers and details of the battles, and which version is more historically accurate? 13. In 1 Kings 10:18-20, is there any external record or artifact supporting the intricate details of Solomon's throne, or does this description seem exaggerated? 14. How do we reconcile the discrepant figures between 2 Samuel 10:18 and 1 Chronicles 19:18 regarding the number of charioteers and horsemen defeated by David? What Does 1 Kings 10:19 Mean The throne had six steps• Scripture records an actual, elevated throne; the six steps are literal. 2 Chronicles 9:18 repeats the description, confirming its accuracy. • Elevation highlights majesty. Genesis 28:12 pictures a stairway between heaven and earth; in a court, steps draw eyes upward, setting the king apart. • Six can hint at the reach of human authority under God’s perfect seven (Joshua 6:15; Revelation 13:18). Solomon’s throne points to earthly rule that still answers to the Lord above. • Each ascent toward the seat foreshadows the greater throne of Christ: “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19). and its back had a rounded top • A literal curved back finished the throne, unmatched in other ancient courts. • The seamless curve suggests completeness and protection. Psalm 23:6 pictures God’s goodness “following” His people; here, the rounded back shelters the seated king. • Rounded design echoes the mercy seat’s cherub-covered lid (Exodus 25:20-22). Just as that cover spoke of God’s presence, the curve behind Solomon hints that his judgment should reflect divine mercy and wholeness (Isaiah 11:3-4). There were armrests on both sides of the seat • Details emphasize stability and balance—two supports for one ruler. • In 1 Kings 22:19 Micaiah sees “the LORD sitting on His throne, with all the host of heaven standing by Him on His right and on His left.” Solomon’s throne imitates that heavenly order. • Armrests signify secure authority. Psalm 110:1 declares, “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool.” Solomon’s earthly arms rest while God works through him, illustrating delegated power (Romans 13:1). with a lion standing beside each armrest • The lions were literal sculptures, carved or cast, standing guard. Their placement shows that righteousness guards a king’s rule (Proverbs 20:28). • Lions symbolize courage, royalty, and Judah’s lineage. Jacob’s blessing called Judah “a lion’s cub” (Genesis 49:9); Solomon, of Judah, reigns between two lions. • Revelation 5:5 presents Jesus as “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.” The twin lions foreshadow the greater King whose throne endures forever (Luke 1:32-33). • Their stance by both armrests depicts equal watchfulness—no side of the throne is uncovered. Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them.” summary Every feature of Solomon’s throne—its six ascending steps, protective curved back, balanced armrests, and vigilant lions—is historically factual and divinely purposeful. The grandeur magnified Israel’s king while directing hearts to the true Sovereign. The passage invites us to see earthly authority as a reflection of heavenly rule, pointing ultimately to Christ, the perfect and eternal King. Verse 19. - The throne had six steps ["The characteristic feature in the royal throne was its elevation" (Dict. Bib. ill. p. 1493); cf. Isaiah 6:1], and the top [Heb. head] of the throne was round behind [same word ch. 7:23, 24. Thenius and Bahr understand it of an arched or rounded canopy attached to the back; Keil supposes that the back was arched or rounded in form]: and there were stays [Heb. hands, i.e., arms] on either side on the place of the seat [see drawing of Assyrian throne in Layard's "Nineveh," 2:301; Dict. Bib. 52. p. 1494], and two liens [probably of wood overlaid with gold. Cf. Jeremiah 10:3, 4] stood beside the stays.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew The throneלַכִּסֵּ֗ה (lak·kis·sêh) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 3678: Seat of honor, throne had six שֵׁ֧שׁ (šêš) Number - feminine singular construct Strong's 8337: Six (a cardinal number) steps מַעֲל֣וֹת (ma·‘ă·lō·wṯ) Noun - feminine plural Strong's 4609: Elevation, the act, the condition, a climactic progression and a rounded עָגֹ֤ל (‘ā·ḡōl) Adjective - masculine singular Strong's 5696: Circular top וְרֹאשׁ־ (wə·rōš-) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 7218: The head at the back מֵאַֽחֲרָ֔יו (mê·’a·ḥă·rāw) Preposition-m | third person masculine singular Strong's 310: The hind or following part of the throne. לַכִּסֵּה֙ (lak·kis·sêh) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 3678: Seat of honor, throne There were armrests וְיָדֹ֛ת (wə·yā·ḏōṯ) Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine plural Strong's 3027: A hand on both sides וּמִזֶּ֖ה (ū·miz·zeh) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-m | Pronoun - masculine singular Strong's 2088: This, that of אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to the seat, מְק֣וֹם (mə·qō·wm) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 4725: A standing, a spot, a condition with [a] וּשְׁנַ֣יִם (ū·šə·na·yim) Conjunctive waw | Number - md Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number) lion אֲרָי֔וֹת (’ă·rā·yō·wṯ) Noun - masculine plural Strong's 738: A lion standing עֹמְדִ֖ים (‘ō·mə·ḏîm) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural Strong's 5975: To stand, in various relations beside אֵ֥צֶל (’ê·ṣel) Preposition Strong's 681: A joining together, proximity each armrest. הַיָּדֽוֹת׃ (hay·yā·ḏō·wṯ) Article | Noun - feminine plural Strong's 3027: A hand Links 1 Kings 10:19 NIV1 Kings 10:19 NLT 1 Kings 10:19 ESV 1 Kings 10:19 NASB 1 Kings 10:19 KJV 1 Kings 10:19 BibleApps.com 1 Kings 10:19 Biblia Paralela 1 Kings 10:19 Chinese Bible 1 Kings 10:19 French Bible 1 Kings 10:19 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Kings 10:19 There were six steps to the throne (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg) |
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