And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.
1 CHRONICLES 28:18KJVWhat does 1 Chronicles 28:18 mean?
1 Chronicles 28:18 describes how King David gave instructions for the temple furnishings, specifying that the altar of incense should be made of refined gold, and that gold was also set aside for the design of the chariot-like figure of the cherubim, whose wings would cover the ark of the covenant of the LORD. This verse highlights the detailed plans and precious materials intended for the most sacred parts of the temple.
David is speaking to the leaders of Israel, sharing the plans he received from God for building the temple, which his son Solomon will construct. The verse focuses on the altar used for burning incense and the golden cherubim figures that symbolically protect the ark, showing the care and reverence given to the temple’s holiest objects.
The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 28:18
- מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach, H4196) — "altar": This word refers specifically to the altar for burning incense, a central feature in Israelite worship, set apart from the altar for sacrifices.
- קְטֹרֶת (qetoret, H7004) — "incense": The incense altar was used for burning a special blend of spices, symbolizing prayers rising to God.
- זָהָב מְזֻקָּק (zahav mezukkaq, H2091 H2212) — "refined gold": The use of highly purified gold emphasizes the value and purity required for items in God’s presence.
- תַּבְנִית (tabnit, H8403) — "pattern": This word means a detailed design or model, showing that David was not just giving general instructions but specific, God-given blueprints for the temple furnishings.
- כְּרוּבִים (keruvim, H3742) — "cherubims": These are angelic figures, often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, whose wings covered the ark as a sign of God’s presence and protection.
Why 1 Chronicles 28:18 matters
- This verse clarifies that every detail of the temple, down to the materials and design of each object, was carefully planned and considered holy, not left to human preference.
- It shows the special role of the cherubim and the ark, underlining their importance as symbols of God’s covenant and presence with Israel.
- The verse connects to the wider passage by showing David’s obedience in passing on God’s instructions to Solomon, emphasizing that the temple was to be built according to divine, not merely human, design.