Lily-blossoms hold a significant place in biblical symbolism and are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures. These flowers are often associated with beauty, purity, and divine provision, reflecting the splendor of God's creation.

Biblical References:

1. Song of Solomon 2:1-2 : "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley. Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens." In the poetic and allegorical language of the Song of Solomon, the lily is used to describe the beloved's beauty and purity. The lily's presence among thorns highlights its distinctiveness and value, symbolizing the beloved's unique and cherished status.

2. 1 Kings 7:19, 22, 26 : The lily motif is also found in the description of Solomon's Temple. The capitals on top of the pillars in the temple were designed with lily-blossoms, signifying beauty and divine craftsmanship. "The capitals on top of the pillars in the portico were in the shape of lilies, four cubits high." (1 Kings 7:19). This architectural detail underscores the temple's splendor and the glory of God dwelling within.

3. Matthew 6:28-29 : Jesus uses the lilies of the field to teach about God's provision and care. "And why do you worry about clothes? Consider how the lilies of the field grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these." (Matthew 6:28-29). Here, lilies exemplify God's provision and the futility of human anxiety, encouraging believers to trust in God's care.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In biblical literature, lily-blossoms are emblematic of purity and divine beauty. They are often used to illustrate the splendor of God's creation and the care He provides for His people. The lily's delicate and pure appearance makes it a fitting symbol for the virtues of innocence and holiness.

The use of lilies in the construction of Solomon's Temple further emphasizes their association with divine beauty and the sacred. The temple, a place of worship and God's dwelling, adorned with lily motifs, reflects the harmony and order of God's creation.

In the teachings of Jesus, lilies serve as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of faith. By pointing to the lilies of the field, Jesus reassures His followers of God's attentive care, urging them to live free from worry and to seek first the kingdom of God.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, lilies were admired for their beauty and fragrance. They were often cultivated in gardens and used in various cultural and religious contexts. The biblical references to lilies would have resonated with the original audience, who were familiar with these flowers and their symbolic meanings.

The lily's enduring symbolism in Christian art and literature continues to reflect its biblical significance. It is often depicted in religious iconography as a symbol of purity, resurrection, and the Virgin Mary, further emphasizing its association with holiness and divine grace.Lily-blossoms (2 Occurrences)

1 Kings 7:26
And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim was like the work of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; it held two thousand baths.
(DBY)

2 Chronicles 4:5
And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim like the work of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; in capacity it held three thousand baths.
(DBY)

Lily-blossoms (2 Occurrences)
Lily-blossoms. Lily, Lily-blossoms. Lily-flower . Multi-Version
Concordance Lily-blossoms (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 7 ...
/l/lily-blossoms.htm - 7k

Blossom (23 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:26 And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim was like the work
of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; it held two thousand baths. ...
/b/blossom.htm - 14k

Hand-breadth (7 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:26 And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim was like the work
of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; it held two thousand baths. ...
/h/hand-breadth.htm - 8k

Lily (9 Occurrences)

/l/lily.htm - 15k

Lily-flower (1 Occurrence)
Lily-flower. Lily-blossoms, Lily-flower. Lilywork . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Lily-blossoms, Lily-flower. Lilywork . Reference Bible.
/l/lily-flower.htm - 6k

Thickness (12 Occurrences)
... 1 Kings 7:26 And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim was like the work
of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; it held two thousand baths. ...
/t/thickness.htm - 10k

Capacity (5 Occurrences)
... 2 Chronicles 4:5 And its thickness was a hand-breadth, and its brim like the work
of the brim of a cup, with lily-blossoms; in capacity it held three thousand ...
/c/capacity.htm - 8k

What is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.org

What is the Rose of Sharon? | GotQuestions.org

What is the menorah? | GotQuestions.org

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