Paneling in the Bible refers to the use of wood or other materials to cover walls, often as a decorative or protective feature. This practice is mentioned in several biblical contexts, highlighting both its aesthetic and symbolic significance.

Old Testament References

1. Solomon's Temple: One of the most notable uses of paneling in the Bible is found in the construction of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 6:9, it is recorded, "So he built the house and finished it, and he covered the house with beams and planks of cedar." The use of cedar wood, known for its durability and pleasant aroma, was a mark of the temple's grandeur and the care taken in its construction. The paneling served not only as a structural element but also as a symbol of the temple's sanctity and the glory of God.

2. Haggai's Rebuke: In the book of Haggai, paneling is mentioned in a context of rebuke. Haggai 1:4 states, "Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?" Here, the prophet Haggai challenges the Israelites for prioritizing their own comfort and luxury over the rebuilding of the Lord's house. The paneled houses represent a misplaced focus on personal wealth and comfort, contrasting with the neglected state of the temple.

3. Palaces and Royal Buildings: Paneling was also used in royal buildings and palaces, as seen in the construction of King Solomon's palace. In 1 Kings 7:7, it is described, "He made the Hall of the Throne where he was to judge, the Hall of Judgment, and it was paneled with cedar from floor to ceiling." This use of paneling in royal settings underscores its association with wealth, authority, and the splendor of the monarchy.

Symbolic Significance

Paneling in the Bible often symbolizes wealth, luxury, and human achievement. It reflects the human desire to create beauty and comfort in living spaces. However, biblical references to paneling also serve as a reminder of the potential for misplaced priorities. The contrast between paneled houses and the neglected temple in Haggai highlights the danger of valuing material comfort over spiritual devotion and obedience to God.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern architecture, paneling was a common practice among the wealthy and powerful. The use of fine woods like cedar was a status symbol, indicating both the resources available to the builder and the importance of the structure. The biblical references to paneling align with this cultural context, illustrating the broader societal values of the time.

Conclusion

Paneling in the Bible is a multifaceted concept, representing both the beauty and craftsmanship of human construction and the potential for spiritual neglect. Through its various mentions, paneling serves as a lens through which to examine themes of wealth, priority, and devotion in the biblical narrative.1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Panel.

2. (n.) A forming in panels; panel work.

5603. saphan -- to cover, cover in, panel
... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to cover, cover in, panel NASB Word Usage covered
(1), paneled (3), paneling (1), reserved (1), treasures (1). ...
/hebrew/5603.htm - 6k

The Son of the Murket
... Aromatic torches flaring in sconces lighted the friezes of lotus, the painted paneling
on the walls, and the clustered pillars that upheld the ceiling of the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xvii the son of.htm

Description of the Walls, Roof, Decoration, and Gilding of the ...
... Footnotes: [3267] It would seem from this description that the paneling was like
that of Santa Maria Maggiore at Rome, a horizontal surface rather than the ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/chapter xxxvi description of the walls.htm

The Death of the Blessed virgin Mary at Ephesus
... Its beams were decorated with a mixture of paneling and wickerwork, and ornamented
with a pattern of leaves. It was all simple and dignified. ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xviii the death of the.htm

Paneling (3 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Panel. 2. (n.) A forming in panels;
panel work. Multi-Version Concordance Paneling (3 Occurrences). ...
/p/paneling.htm - 7k

Panels (10 Occurrences)

/p/panels.htm - 9k

Rail (8 Occurrences)
... 4. (n.) A horizontal piece in a frame or paneling. 5. (n.) A bar of steel
or iron, forming part of the track on which the wheels roll. ...
/r/rail.htm - 11k

Paneled (3 Occurrences)

/p/paneled.htm - 7k

Ceiled (3 Occurrences)
... In none of these cases does "ceiled" refer to the upper surface of a room, but to
the covering or paneling of the inner walls of a house with cedar or other ...
/c/ceiled.htm - 8k

Ceiling (7 Occurrences)
... In none of these cases does "ceiled" refer to the upper surface of a room, but to
the covering or paneling of the inner walls of a house with cedar or other ...
/c/ceiling.htm - 10k

Nineveh (23 Occurrences)
... The partition walls vary from 6 to 15 ft. in thickness, and are of
sun-dried brick, against which the stone paneling was fixed. ...
/n/nineveh.htm - 52k

Paneling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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