The term "bowl-shaped" in the context of the Bible often refers to objects or structures that are rounded and concave, resembling a bowl. This shape is significant in various biblical narratives and descriptions, symbolizing abundance, provision, and divine craftsmanship.

Biblical References:

1. The Bronze Sea: One of the most prominent bowl-shaped objects in the Bible is the "Bronze Sea" or "Sea of Cast Metal" in Solomon's Temple. Described in 1 Kings 7:23-26, this massive basin was used for the ritual purification of the priests. It was circular, ten cubits from rim to rim, and stood on twelve oxen, three facing each cardinal direction. The Berean Standard Bible describes it as follows: "He made the Sea of cast metal, circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim and five cubits high. It took a line of thirty cubits to measure around it."

2. Bowls in the Tabernacle and Temple: Bowls were also used in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple for various ceremonial purposes. In Exodus 25:29, God instructs Moses to make dishes, pans, bowls, and pitchers of pure gold for the table of showbread. These items were integral to the worship practices and symbolized the holiness and purity required in offerings to God.

3. The Vision of Zechariah: In Zechariah 4:2, the prophet describes a vision of a golden lampstand with a bowl at the top. This bowl-shaped object held oil, which supplied the lamps, symbolizing the continuous provision of the Holy Spirit. The Berean Standard Bible states: "He asked me, 'What do you see?' I replied, 'I see a solid gold lampstand with a bowl at the top and seven lamps on it, with seven spouts to the lamps.'"

Symbolism and Significance:

· Abundance and Provision: The bowl shape often signifies abundance and provision. In the context of the Bronze Sea, it held a large quantity of water necessary for purification, symbolizing the cleansing and sustaining power of God.

· Divine Craftsmanship: The intricate design and craftsmanship of bowl-shaped objects, especially those made of precious metals like gold and bronze, reflect the divine wisdom and skill bestowed upon the artisans. These objects were not only functional but also served as a testament to the glory and majesty of God.

· Holiness and Purity: The use of bowls in sacrificial and ceremonial contexts underscores the importance of holiness and purity in worship. The materials and design of these bowls were carefully prescribed by God, indicating the reverence and sanctity required in approaching Him.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, bowls were common household items used for eating, drinking, and ritual purposes. The biblical use of bowl-shaped objects often elevates their significance from mundane to sacred, illustrating the transformation of ordinary materials into vessels of divine purpose.

The bowl shape, with its capacity to hold and contain, serves as a metaphor for the human heart and life, which are to be filled with the presence and blessings of God. This imagery is consistent with the biblical theme of God as the provider and sustainer of life, who fills His people with His Spirit and grace.Bowl-shaped (4 Occurrences)

1 Kings 7:20
There were capitals above also on the two pillars, close by the belly which was beside the network: and the pomegranates were two hundred, in rows around on the other capital.
(See NIV)

1 Kings 7:41
the two pillars, and the two bowls of the capitals that were on the top of the pillars; and the two networks to cover the two bowls of the capitals that were on the top of the pillars;
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1 Kings 7:42
and the four hundred pomegranates for the two networks, two rows of pomegranates for each network, to cover the two bowls of the capitals that were upon the top of the pillars;
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2 Chronicles 4:12
the two pillars, and the bowls, and the two capitals which were on the top of the pillars; and the two networks to cover the two bowls of the capitals that were on the top of the pillars;
(See NIV)

Bowl-shaped (4 Occurrences)
Bowl-shaped. Bowls, Bowl-shaped. Bowman . Multi-Version Concordance
Bowl-shaped (4 Occurrences). 1 Kings 7:20 There ...
/b/bowl-shaped.htm - 7k

Censer (10 Occurrences)
... generally rendered "censer," sometimes "firepan," and in three cases (Exodus
25:38; Exodus 37:23 Numbers 4:9) "snuffdish" It denoted a bowl-shaped vessel used ...
/c/censer.htm - 14k

Bowman (5 Occurrences)

/b/bowman.htm - 9k

Bowls (47 Occurrences)

/b/bowls.htm - 21k

Goblet (6 Occurrences)
... The "cups" were bowl-shaped vessels and belonged evidently to the smaller class
of vessels used in a house. Multi-Version Concordance Goblet (6 Occurrences). ...
/g/goblet.htm - 9k

Bowl (44 Occurrences)
... It is likewise used of "the lamp of life" (Ecclesiastes 12:6) and to designate the
bowl-shaped capitals of Jachin and Boaz (1 Kings 7:41, 42 2 Chronicles 4:12 ...
/b/bowl.htm - 26k

Temple (614 Occurrences)
... and 12 cubits (18 ft.) in circumference, and were surmounted by capitals 5 cubits
(7 1/2 ft.) high, richly ornamented on their lower, bowl-shaped (1 Kings 7:20 ...
/t/temple.htm - 101k

What are Jachin and Boaz? | GotQuestions.org

Does everyone have a "God-shaped hole"? | GotQuestions.org

What are the seven bowls/vials of Revelation? | GotQuestions.org

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