Topical Encyclopedia The Molten Sea, also known as the "Sea of Cast Metal," was a large basin made of cast bronze, constructed during the reign of King Solomon for the temple in Jerusalem. This significant artifact is detailed in the biblical accounts of 1 Kings 7:23-26 and 2 Chronicles 4:2-5. It served a crucial role in the religious practices of ancient Israel, particularly in the purification rituals of the priests.Description and Construction The Molten Sea was an impressive feat of ancient craftsmanship. According to 1 Kings 7:23 , "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." This description highlights its massive size, with a diameter of approximately 15 feet and a circumference of about 45 feet, assuming a cubit is roughly 18 inches. The basin was five cubits high, or about 7.5 feet. The Sea was set upon twelve oxen, cast in bronze, with three facing each cardinal direction (north, south, east, and west), as described in 1 Kings 7:25 : "The Sea stood on twelve oxen, three facing north, three facing west, three facing south, and three facing east. The Sea rested on them, and their hindquarters were toward the center." This arrangement symbolized strength and stability, with the oxen representing the tribes of Israel. Function and Symbolism The primary function of the Molten Sea was for the ceremonial washing of the priests, as indicated in 2 Chronicles 4:6 : "He also made ten basins for washing and placed five on the south side and five on the north. In them the things to be used for the burnt offerings were rinsed, but the Sea was to be used by the priests for washing." This ritual cleansing was essential for maintaining the purity required for service in the temple. Symbolically, the Molten Sea represented the vastness and depth of God's provision and purity. Its immense size and the water it held could be seen as a metaphor for the cleansing power of God, necessary for the sanctification of His people. The use of bronze, a metal associated with judgment and strength, further emphasized the seriousness of approaching God with a pure heart. Craftsmanship and Artistic Detail The craftsmanship of the Molten Sea was of the highest order, reflecting the glory and splendor of Solomon's temple. The basin was adorned with a decorative brim, described in 1 Kings 7:26 : "It was a handbreadth thick, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom. It could hold two thousand baths." The lily motif is often associated with beauty and purity, enhancing the aesthetic and symbolic value of the Sea. The capacity of the Molten Sea, stated as "two thousand baths," indicates its ability to hold a substantial volume of water, estimated to be around 11,500 gallons. This capacity underscores the importance of water in the temple rituals and the logistical needs of the temple service. Historical and Theological Significance The Molten Sea stands as a testament to the grandeur of Solomon's temple and the centrality of worship in the life of Israel. It reflects the meticulous care and divine inspiration involved in the temple's construction, as well as the theological emphasis on purity and preparation for encountering the divine presence. In the broader biblical narrative, the Molten Sea can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of spiritual cleansing through Christ. While the Sea provided physical purification, it pointed forward to the ultimate purification available through Jesus, who offers cleansing from sin and access to God for all believers. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Molten SeaMOLTEN SEA See LAVER. Smith's Bible Dictionary Molten SeaIn the place of the laver of the tabernacle Solomon caused a laver to be cast for a similar purpose, which from its size was called a sea. It was made partly or wholly of the brass, or rather copper, which was captured by David from "Tibhath and Chun, cities of Hadarezer king of Zobah." (1 Kings 7:23-26; 1 Chronicles 18:8) It is said to have been 15 feet in diameter and 7 1/2 feet deep, and to have been capable of containing 2000, or according to (2 Chronicles 4:5) 3000 Baths (16,000 to 24,000 gallons). The lever stood on twelve oxen three toward each quarter of the heavens, and all looking outward. It was mutilated by Ahaz by being removed from its basis of oxen and placed on a stone base, and was finally broken up by the Assyrians. (2 Kings 16:14,17; 25:13) Library Hiram, the Inspired Artificer Solomon Psalm 106 The Nativity of Jesus the Messiah. Nahum's Doom of Nineveh Habakkuk's Rhapsody of the Chaldeans Korah, Dathan, and Abiram Sin Immeasurable Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Of the Law. Resources What is the significance of the refiner's fire and launderer's soap in Malachi 3:2? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any evidence for the Bible's view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.org How does the geologic timescale fit with the view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.org Molten: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |