And in the top of the base was there a round compass of half a cubit high: and on the top of the base the ledges thereof and the borders thereof were of the same.

1 KINGS 7:35KJV
truelightbible.com

1 Kings 7:35 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 7:35 mean?

1 Kings 7:35 describes a part of the large bronze stands made for Solomon’s temple, saying that on top of each base there was a round structure, half a cubit high, and that the ledges and borders on top were made as one piece with the base. This verse is giving a detailed description of the craftsmanship and design of these temple furnishings.

In this section, the writer is explaining the construction details of the stands (or bases) that supported the bronze basins used in the temple. The focus is on the upper part of the base, highlighting how the round top, the ledges, and the borders were all crafted together from the same material, showing the skill and unity of the design.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 7:35

  • The word "top" (רֹאשׁ, rosh) is used here to refer to the uppermost part of the base, emphasizing the highest point of the structure.
  • "Base" (מְכוֹנָה, mekhonah) refers to the stand or platform that supported the basin, a key piece of temple equipment.
  • "Round" (סָבִיב, saviv) and "compass" (סָבִיב, saviv) together stress the circular shape of the upper part, which would have been visually distinct and structurally important.
  • "Ledges" (יָד, yad) literally means "hands," but here it refers to the projecting parts or supports on the top of the base, indicating functional elements that helped hold the basin.
  • "Borders" (מִסְגֶּרֶת, misgeret) means a frame or border, describing the decorative or structural edge around the top.

Why 1 Kings 7:35 matters

  • This verse helps clear up how detailed and intentional the temple furnishings were, showing that even the supports for the basins were carefully designed and unified in their construction.
  • The emphasis on the round top and the borders being "of the same" as the base highlights the craftsmanship and the idea that each part was not just attached, but formed together, adding to the strength and beauty of the piece.
  • Understanding these details connects to the wider passage by showing the effort and resources Solomon put into building the temple, reflecting the importance of the temple in Israel’s worship and identity.