2 Chronicles 4:5

It was a handbreadth thick, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom. It could hold three thousand baths.

Study Bible

It was a handbreadth thick
The term "handbreadth" refers to an ancient unit of measurement, approximately four inches or the width of a hand. This detail emphasizes the substantial and robust construction of the Sea, a large basin used in the temple for ceremonial washing. The thickness signifies durability and the importance of purity in worship, reflecting God's desire for His people to approach Him with clean hands and hearts. The Hebrew word for "handbreadth" is "טֶפַח" (tephach), which underscores the precision and care in the temple's design, symbolizing the meticulous nature of God's covenant with Israel.

and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup
The imagery of a cup brim suggests elegance and beauty, indicating that the temple was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. This design choice reflects the artistry and craftsmanship that went into the temple's construction, symbolizing the beauty of holiness. The Hebrew word "שָׂפָה" (saphah) for "rim" can also mean "lip," suggesting the idea of speech or communication, perhaps symbolizing the communication between God and His people through worship.

like a lily blossom
The lily is often associated with purity and beauty in biblical literature. Its use here as a decorative motif for the Sea's rim highlights the purity required in the worship of God. The lily's symbolism extends to the New Testament, where Jesus refers to the lilies of the field in Matthew 6:28-29, emphasizing God's provision and care. The Hebrew word "שׁוֹשַׁן" (shoshan) for "lily" evokes the idea of flourishing and divine beauty, reminding believers of the splendor of God's creation and His temple.

It could hold three thousand baths
A "bath" is an ancient unit of liquid measure, roughly equivalent to six gallons. The capacity of three thousand baths indicates the immense size of the Sea, underscoring the importance of ritual purification in the temple. This vast capacity symbolizes the abundance of God's grace and the thorough cleansing He provides. The Hebrew word "בַּת" (bath) for "bath" signifies fullness and completeness, pointing to the sufficiency of God's provision for His people's spiritual needs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who commissioned the building of the temple, including the crafting of the Sea of cast metal described in this verse.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where the Israelites worshiped God, built by Solomon as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant.

3. The Sea of Cast Metal
A large basin used for ceremonial washing by the priests, symbolizing purification and readiness to serve in the temple.

4. Hiram of Tyre
The skilled craftsman who assisted Solomon by providing materials and expertise for the temple's construction, including the Sea.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the temple was built, serving as the spiritual center for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Purity
The Sea of cast metal represents the need for spiritual cleansing. Just as the priests needed to be clean to serve, we must seek spiritual purity through Christ.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The detailed description of the Sea's construction highlights the importance of reverence and care in our worship practices. We should approach God with intentionality and respect.

God's Provision and Abundance
The Sea's capacity to hold three thousand baths signifies God's abundant provision. In our lives, we can trust in God's ability to provide for our needs beyond measure.

The Beauty of Holiness
The lily blossom design on the rim symbolizes beauty and holiness. Our lives should reflect the beauty of God's holiness in our actions and attitudes.

Continuity of God's Plan
The connection between the Old Testament rituals and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ shows the continuity of God's redemptive plan. We are part of this ongoing account of redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the Sea of cast metal in 2 Chronicles 4:5 enhance our understanding of the importance of purity in worship?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of attention to detail in our personal worship and service to God?

3. How does the symbolism of the lily blossom on the Sea's rim inspire us to reflect God's beauty and holiness in our daily lives?

4. What are some examples of God's abundant provision in your life, and how can you respond with gratitude and trust?

5. How does understanding the continuity between Old Testament rituals and New Testament fulfillment deepen your appreciation for God's redemptive plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:17-21
This passage describes the bronze basin used for washing, which is a precursor to the Sea of cast metal, emphasizing the importance of purification.

1 Kings 7:23-26
Provides a parallel account of the construction of the Sea, offering additional details and reinforcing its significance in temple worship.

Hebrews 9:9-10
Discusses the symbolic nature of the Old Testament rituals, including purification, pointing to the ultimate purification through Christ.