The olive tree holds significant symbolic and practical importance in biblical history, particularly in the construction of sacred objects within the Temple of Solomon. One of the most notable uses of olive wood in the Temple was for the crafting of the cherubim, which were placed in the inner sanctuary, the Most Holy Place.

Biblical Reference:

The account of the cherubim made from olive wood is found in 1 Kings 6:23-28. According to the Berean Standard Bible , the passage describes the construction of these figures: "In the inner sanctuary he made two cherubim, each ten cubits high, out of olive wood." The cherubim were overlaid with gold, emphasizing their sacred purpose and the divine presence they symbolized.

Symbolism and Significance:

The use of olive wood for the cherubim is rich in symbolism. The olive tree is often associated with peace, prosperity, and divine blessing throughout Scripture. Its oil was used for anointing, symbolizing the Holy Spirit and consecration. By choosing olive wood for the cherubim, Solomon's Temple incorporated these themes of divine favor and presence into its most sacred space.

The cherubim themselves are significant as they represent the guardians of the divine throne, echoing the imagery found in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the visions of the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 10). Their presence in the Temple's Most Holy Place underscored the sanctity of the space and the nearness of God to His people.

Craftsmanship and Design:

The craftsmanship of the cherubim was a testament to the skill and artistry employed in the construction of the Temple. Each cherub was ten cubits high, approximately 15 feet, and their wings spanned a total of twenty cubits, touching the walls of the inner sanctuary. This grand scale highlighted the majesty and glory of God, whom the cherubim were meant to honor.

The overlaying of gold on the olive wood cherubim further enhanced their splendor and signified purity and holiness. Gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, was fitting for objects within the Temple, which was a dwelling place for the divine presence.

Theological Implications:

The presence of the olive wood cherubim in the Temple serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It reflects the belief that God dwells among His people and that His presence is both protective and awe-inspiring. The cherubim, crafted from olive wood and overlaid with gold, symbolize the intersection of the earthly and the divine, a central theme in the worship and theology of ancient Israel.

In summary, the use of olive wood for the cherubim in Solomon's Temple is a profound example of how natural materials were imbued with spiritual significance, serving as a bridge between the physical and the divine in the worship practices of the Israelites.1 Kings 6:23
And within the oracle he made two cherubim of olive tree, each ten cubits high.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Seven Trumpets.
... the two cherubim, which Solomon made "of olive-tree," and whose ... of an old
curiosity,""is now used for a ... of God may have been shrouded, making apparent all ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the seven trumpets.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... gospel now is also famous, if much used by Christ ... be from seeking carnal things,
or of making their prevailing[8 ... his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Second vision "On Earth"
... Two earthly Witnesses are added to the making of the ... appropriate to building, is
incongruous when used of persons ... re-grafting him on his own olive-tree; and it ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the second vision on earth.htm

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