What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 9:18? The throne had six steps “The throne had six steps”. • Scripture gives a plain, factual detail: Solomon’s throne sat above six distinct levels—an architectural feature that literally elevated the king before the people (1 Kings 10:19). • Six steps created a graduated approach, underscoring order and rank in Israel’s monarchy. Compare Pharaoh’s command that Joseph be “over my house, and all my people shall obey your command” (Genesis 41:40), where position signified authority. • Each step highlighted the majesty God granted Solomon, fulfilling the promise, “I will establish his throne forever” (2 Samuel 7:13). A footstool of gold was attached to it “A footstool of gold was attached to it”. • A literal golden footstool affirms the throne’s grandeur and the kingdom’s prosperity (2 Chronicles 1:12). • In Scripture a footstool pictures dominion—“Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet” (Psalm 110:1; cf. Hebrews 10:13). Solomon, the son of David, foreshadowed the greater Messiah whose rule is absolute. • 1 Chronicles 28:2 calls the temple “the footstool of our God”; Solomon’s throne mirrored heavenly realities, reminding Israel that true sovereignty belongs to the LORD. There were armrests on both sides of the seat “There were armrests on both sides of the seat”. • The dual armrests supplied stability, comfort, and a visible reminder of balanced judgment. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne” (Psalm 89:14). • These practical details show God’s blessing in physical craftsmanship—nothing is too small for His Word to record (Exodus 31:3-5). • Isaiah saw “the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne” (Isaiah 6:1), and John saw “One seated on the throne” (Revelation 4:2). Earthly thrones reflect the heavenly original; Solomon’s armrests spoke of settled, secure governance. With a lion standing beside each armrest “…with a lion standing beside each armrest”. • Lions symbolize strength, courage, and royal power (Proverbs 30:30). Placing one at each side visually guarded the king, echoing “The righteous are as bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1). • The parallel passage adds another twelve lions on the steps (1 Kings 10:20), totaling fourteen—a continual reminder of vigilant protection. • Judah is called “a lion’s cub” (Genesis 49:9), and Jesus is “the Lion of the tribe of Judah” (Revelation 5:5). These sculpted lions whispered of the coming Messiah whose reign would surpass Solomon’s in glory and might. summary 2 Chronicles 9:18 records literal architectural details that spotlight Solomon’s God-given magnificence: six ascending steps elevate his rule; a golden footstool declares dominion; dual armrests portray stability; and guardian lions picture royal strength and foreshadow Christ. Together they affirm that all true authority, beauty, and power flow from the LORD, whose throne is forever. |
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