What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 3:17? Setting Up the Pillars in Front of the Temple “Then he set up the pillars in front of the temple” (2 Chronicles 3:17a). • These massive bronze pillars (compare 1 Kings 7:15–22) were not structural supports; they were visual testimonies welcoming every worshiper into the house of the LORD. • By placing them “in front,” Solomon underscored that access to God’s presence is both majestic and orderly (see Psalm 24:7–10). • Later Scripture echoes this imagery: in Revelation 3:12 Jesus promises, “I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God,” linking steadfast faith today with an eternal, honored place in God’s dwelling. One on the South and One on the North “…one on the south and one on the north” (3:17b). • The balanced positioning created a visual gateway—reminiscent of the paired cherubim guarding Eden’s way (Genesis 3:24) and of the paired lampstands and olive trees that flank God’s work in Zechariah 4. • South and north orientation speaks of God’s order covering every direction of life (Psalm 139:7–10). • Symmetry at the entrance previewed the perfect design God will reveal in the New Jerusalem, whose gates face every quarter (Revelation 21:12–13). The Pillar on the South Named Jachin “The pillar on the south he named Jachin” (3:17c). • Solomon gave a name that reminded Israel that God establishes His promises (2 Samuel 7:13; Psalm 93:2). • Each time a worshiper walked past Jachin, the sight said, “The LORD secures what He has begun” (Philippians 1:6). • Jeremiah later mentions these same temple pillars before the exile (Jeremiah 52:20–23), showing that even in judgment God’s establishing word remained in view. The Pillar on the North Named Boaz “…and the pillar on the north he named Boaz” (3:17d). • Boaz drew hearts to God’s strength (Psalm 18:2; Isaiah 40:29). • Together, Jachin and Boaz proclaimed, “God establishes, and God empowers.” The entrance preached a two-fold sermon every day. • When the pillars were finally taken to Babylon (Jeremiah 52:17), the loss underscored that true security and strength rest only in the LORD, not in objects of bronze. summary 2 Chronicles 3:17 presents more than architectural detail; it offers a living picture of God’s unchanging character. Set before the temple, two symmetrical pillars—Jachin and Boaz—announced to all who entered that the LORD both establishes His people and supplies the strength they need. From Solomon’s day to ours, anyone who approaches God can rely on these twin certainties: He has founded our salvation, and He will uphold it forever. |
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