Old Testament
1 Kings 6:31
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For the entrance to the inner sanctuary, he made doors of olive wood. The lintel and doorposts took up a 5th of the wall.
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And for the entering of the oracle he made doors of olive tree: the lintel and side posts were a fifth part of the wall.
What 1 Kings 6:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating the entrance to the inner sanctuary of the temple. The doors were made from olive wood, a material known for its beauty and durability. The lintel and doorposts, which frame the entrance, were designed to take up one-fifth of the wall's total height. This detail highlights the importance of the entrance, symbolizing a threshold between the sacred and the ordinary. The choice of olive wood suggests a connection to peace and prosperity, as olive trees are often associated with these themes. The careful measurements and materials used reflect the reverence for the space within, emphasizing its significance. This craftsmanship serves as a reminder of the value placed on sacred spaces and the effort put into honoring them. Overall, this passage illustrates the blend of artistry and spirituality in the construction of the temple, inviting us to consider how we honor the sacred in our own lives and spaces.
How to apply 1 Kings 6:31 to your life
Consider how you can create sacred spaces in your life, whether through physical spaces or moments of reflection. Pay attention to the details in your surroundings and how they can enhance your connection to what is meaningful. Small acts of care can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, inviting peace and purpose into your daily routine. Embrace the beauty in simplicity and intention as you honor your own sacred moments.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: Building the Temple (1 Kings 6:1–38)
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Solomon
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Kings 6:31
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 6:31 mean?
1 Kings 6:31 describes the construction of the entrance to the inner sanctuary of the temple, highlighting the use of olive wood for the doors and the specific measurements of the lintel and doorposts. This emphasizes the craftsmanship and significance of the sacred space.
What is the significance of olive wood in 1 Kings 6:31?
Olive wood is valued for its beauty and durability, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Its use in the temple's entrance suggests a connection to these themes and the importance of the sacred space.
Why is the measurement of a fifth of the wall important in 1 Kings 6:31?
The measurement of a fifth of the wall for the lintel and doorposts highlights the careful planning and design in the temple's construction, emphasizing the significance of the entrance as a threshold between the sacred and the ordinary.
How does 1 Kings 6:31 relate to creating sacred spaces today?
This verse serves as a reminder of the value placed on sacred spaces, encouraging us to consider how we can honor our own sacred moments through intentionality and attention to detail in our surroundings.
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