And there were six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, which were fastened to the throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the stays:

2 CHRONICLES 9:18KJV
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2 Chronicles 9:18 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 9:18 mean?

2 Chronicles 9:18 describes the impressive throne of King Solomon, highlighting its six steps, a gold footstool attached to the throne, armrests on each side, and two lions standing beside the armrests. This verse paints a picture of royal splendor and the extraordinary craftsmanship of Solomon’s court.

The verse is part of a larger passage where the writer details the wealth and grandeur of Solomon’s reign in Jerusalem. The description is meant to show not just the king’s riches, but also the respect and awe his rule inspired. The specific mention of gold, the number of steps, and the lions emphasizes both the luxury and the symbolic power associated with Solomon’s throne.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 9:18

  • "steps" (מַעֲלָה, ma‘alah): This word refers to the stairs leading up to the throne, suggesting elevation and importance. The six steps set the throne apart, making it physically and symbolically higher than those around it.
  • "footstool" (הֲדֹם, hadom): This is a separate piece, often understood as a place for the king’s feet, made of gold. Its attachment to the throne underlines the level of luxury and attention to detail in Solomon’s court.
  • "stays" (יָד, yad): Literally "hands," this word is used here for armrests or supports on each side of the throne. The use of "hands" gives a sense of support and strength, adding to the throne’s majesty.
  • "lions" (אֲרִי, ari): Lions were symbols of power and royalty in the ancient Near East. Their presence by the armrests would have visually reinforced Solomon’s authority and the throne’s significance.

Why 2 Chronicles 9:18 matters

  • This verse helps readers visualize the extraordinary wealth and artistry of Solomon’s kingdom, which is a key theme in this part of Chronicles.
  • The detailed description of the throne, especially the lions and gold, connects to ancient ideas about kingship, where such imagery was meant to convey strength, authority, and divine favor.
  • By focusing on these physical details, the writer sets up a contrast with later events in Israel’s history, highlighting how unique and unmatched Solomon’s reign was in terms of splendor and stability.

Where else these words appear

“steps” Hebrew H4609 · used in 39 verses

  • Exodus 20:26 Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon.
  • Psalms 120:1 A Song of degrees. In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.
  • Psalms 133:1 A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

“by” Hebrew H681 · used in 57 verses

  • Genesis 39:10 And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.
  • 1 Kings 4:12 Baana the son of Ahilud; to him pertained Taanach and Megiddo, and all Bethshean, which is by Zartanah beneath Jezreel, from Bethshean to Abelmeholah, even unto the place that is beyond Jokneam:
  • Proverbs 8:30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;

“fastened” Hebrew H270 · used in 63 verses

  • Genesis 22:13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.
  • 2 Samuel 2:21 And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.
  • Psalms 48:6 Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail.

“lions” Hebrew H738 · used in 72 verses

  • Genesis 49:9 Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?
  • 2 Kings 17:25 And so it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, that they feared not the LORD: therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew some of them.
  • Jeremiah 2:30 In vain have I smitten your children; they received no correction: your own sword hath devoured your prophets, like a destroying lion.