Topical Encyclopedia Cedar wood holds significant importance in biblical history, particularly in the context of the construction and rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. Known for its durability, pleasant aroma, and resistance to decay, cedar was a highly valued material in ancient times. The use of cedar in the Temple's construction is a testament to its esteemed status and symbolic meaning in the biblical narrative.Historical Context The use of cedar in the construction of the Temple is first noted during the reign of King Solomon, who built the First Temple. Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, was constructed in the 10th century BC and was a central place of worship for the Israelites. The cedar used in this construction was sourced from the forests of Lebanon, renowned for their high-quality cedar trees. Biblical References The rebuilding of the Temple, often referred to as the Second Temple, took place after the Babylonian exile, under the leadership of Zerubbabel and later, during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. The use of cedar in this context is mentioned in the book of Ezra. In Ezra 3:7 , it is recorded: "Then they gave money to the masons and carpenters, and food and drink and oil to the people of Sidon and Tyre, so that they would bring cedar logs from Lebanon to Joppa by sea, according to the authorization they had from Cyrus king of Persia." This passage highlights the continued tradition of using cedar from Lebanon, emphasizing the material's importance and the continuity of worship practices from Solomon's time to the post-exilic period. Symbolic Significance Cedar's use in the Temple is not merely practical but also symbolic. In biblical literature, cedar is often associated with strength, majesty, and beauty. The psalmist writes in Psalm 92:12 , "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon." This imagery conveys the idea of spiritual strength and endurance, qualities that are fitting for the house of God. Furthermore, the use of cedar in the Temple can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and the fulfillment of His promises. The procurement of cedar from Lebanon, facilitated by foreign powers, underscores the divine orchestration in the rebuilding efforts, as prophesied by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. Cultural and Religious Impact The use of cedar in the Temple's construction had a lasting impact on Jewish culture and religious practice. The Temple served as the focal point of Jewish worship and the presence of cedar within its structure would have been a constant reminder of God's majesty and the covenant relationship between God and His people. In summary, cedar's role in the rebuilding of the Temple is a multifaceted topic that encompasses historical, symbolic, and theological dimensions. Its presence in the sacred architecture of the Temple underscores its enduring significance in the biblical narrative and the life of the Israelite community. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 3:7They gave money also to the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, to them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia. Nave's Topical Index Library How the Temple was Built While the Cutheans Endeavored in Vain to ... The Cleansing of the Temple. How after the Death of Cambyses and the Slaughter of the Magi but ... The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued) Ancient Chaldaea The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Book 1. Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied ... The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Why didn't God allow David to build the temple? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the story of David and Nathan? | GotQuestions.org Who was Nathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Cedar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cedar used in Rebuilding the Temple Cedar used in Solomon's Palace Cedar: David's Ample Provision of, in Jerusalem, for the Temple Cedar: Furnished by Hiram, King of Tyre, for Solomon's Temple Cedar: Valuable for Building Purposes The Cedar used In Building Palaces The Cedar used In Building Temples The Cedar used In Making Chariots The Cedar used In Making Idols The Cedar used In Making Masts of Ships The Cedar used In Making Wardrobes The Cedar used In Preparing the Water of Separation The Cedar used In Purifying the Leper The Cedar: Banks of Rivers Favourable to the Growth of The Cedar: Beauty and Glory of Israel The Cedar: Considered the First of Trees The Cedar: Destruction of, a Punishment The Cedar: Destruction of, Exhibits God's Power The Cedar: Extensive Commerce In The Cedar: Graceful and Beautiful The Cedar: Imported Largely by Solomon The Cedar: Lebanon Celebrated For The Cedar: Made to Glorify God The Cedar: Majesty, Strength, and Glory of Christ The Cedar: Saints in Their Rapid Growth The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Instrumental in Propagating The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Making Its Nest In The Cedar: The Eagle Alluded to as Perching on the High Branches of Related Terms |
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