1 Kings Chapter 6 · Verse 25
And the other cherub was ten cubits: both the cherubims were of one measure and one size.
Original Language Analysis
וְעֶ֙שֶׂר֙
was ten
H6235
וְעֶ֙שֶׂר֙
was ten
Strong's:
H6235
Word #:
1 of 10
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
בָּֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubits
H520
בָּֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubits
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
הַשֵּׁנִ֑י
And the other
H8145
הַשֵּׁנִ֑י
And the other
Strong's:
H8145
Word #:
4 of 10
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
מִדָּ֥ה
measure
H4060
מִדָּ֥ה
measure
Strong's:
H4060
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, extension, i.e., height or breadth; specifically, tribute (as measured)
Historical Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE) represented Israel's golden age of peace and prosperity.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the temple as God's dwelling place help us understand Christ's incarnation and the church as God's temple today?
- What does Solomon's prayer and dedication teach about approaching God in worship and prayer?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
And the other cherub was ten cubits: both the cherubims were of one measure and one size.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of construction of the temple, within the book's focus on Solomon's wisdom, temple building, and tragic apostasy.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.