Topical Encyclopedia The use of gold in the construction and decoration of King Solomon's throne is a significant aspect of biblical history, reflecting the wealth, splendor, and divine favor associated with Solomon's reign. The throne of Solomon is described in the Bible as an extraordinary piece of craftsmanship, symbolizing the glory and majesty of his kingdom.Biblical Description The primary biblical account of Solomon's throne is found in 1 Kings 10:18-20 and 2 Chronicles 9:17-19. According to these passages, Solomon's throne was made of ivory and overlaid with pure gold. The Berean Standard Bible describes it as follows: 1 Kings 10:18-20 : "Additionally, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold. The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest. Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like this had ever been made for any kingdom." 2 Chronicles 9:17-19 provides a similar account, emphasizing the uniqueness and unparalleled craftsmanship of the throne. Symbolism and Significance The use of gold in overlaying Solomon's throne is rich in symbolism. Gold, throughout the Bible, is often associated with divinity, purity, and kingship. Its use in the construction of the throne signifies the divine approval and blessing upon Solomon's reign. The throne itself, being made of ivory and overlaid with gold, represents the fusion of beauty, wealth, and divine authority. The lions that adorned the throne and its steps further symbolize strength, power, and royal authority. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, lions were often seen as protectors of the throne and symbols of the king's might. Historical and Cultural Context Solomon's use of gold reflects the economic prosperity of Israel during his reign. The Bible records that Solomon's wealth was immense, with gold being a significant part of his riches. 1 Kings 10:14 states, "The weight of gold that came to Solomon each year was 666 talents," highlighting the abundance of gold in his kingdom. The overlaying of the throne with gold also aligns with the broader cultural practices of the ancient Near East, where gold was commonly used in royal and religious artifacts to denote status and divine favor. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, Solomon's throne, overlaid with gold, serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate reign of Christ, the King of Kings. The splendor and majesty of Solomon's throne point to the greater glory and eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ, who is often typologically linked to Solomon in terms of wisdom and kingship. In summary, the use of gold in overlaying Solomon's throne is a testament to the wealth, divine favor, and royal authority of Solomon's reign. It serves as a powerful symbol of the glory of God's chosen king and the prosperity of Israel under his rule. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 10:18Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Traveler's Note-Book Resources What is the menorah? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does the Bible speak against braided hair? | GotQuestions.org What was the tabernacle of Moses? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |
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