Old Testament
2 Chronicles 4:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Beneath the rim, figures of oxen encircled it — 10 per cubit all the way around. The oxen were arranged in two rows and were cast as one piece with the basin.
Compare translations
And under it was the similitude of oxen, which did compass it round about: ten in a cubit, compassing the sea round about. Two rows of oxen were cast, when it was cast.
What 2 Chronicles 4:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about a large basin used for ceremonial washing, which was beautifully designed. Surrounding the basin were figures of oxen, arranged in two rows. These oxen were not separate pieces; they were crafted as one solid piece with the basin itself. This design was not only functional but also symbolic, representing strength and service. The oxen, ten per cubit, created a sense of abundance and stability. The craftsmanship reflects the importance of purity and preparation in worship. The basin served as a reminder of the need for cleansing before approaching the sacred. This imagery invites us to consider how we prepare ourselves for meaningful experiences in our lives, whether in spiritual or everyday contexts. The details of this basin highlight the significance of beauty and intention in our actions and surroundings, encouraging us to create spaces that reflect our values and beliefs. Overall, this passage emphasizes the connection between physical objects and spiritual practices.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 4:3 to your life
Consider how you prepare for important moments in your life. Just as the basin was designed for cleansing, think about what you need to let go of to approach your goals with clarity. Create a space that reflects your values and intentions, enhancing your focus and purpose. Remember, preparation is key to success in any endeavor you pursue. Embrace the process of cleansing and renewal in your life journey, both physically and spiritually.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Chronicles 4:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Chronicles 4:3
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the basin in 2 Chronicles 4:3 symbolize?
The basin symbolizes purification and preparation for worship. It was used for ceremonial washing, emphasizing the importance of being clean and ready before approaching God. The design, featuring oxen, also represents strength and service, highlighting the connection between physical actions and spiritual readiness.
Why were oxen used in the design of the basin?
Oxen were chosen for their strength and symbolism of service. In ancient cultures, they represented hard work and reliability. Their presence around the basin signifies the importance of strength in the act of purification and the readiness to serve in worship, reflecting the values of dedication and commitment.
How can I apply the message of this verse to my life?
You can apply the message by reflecting on how you prepare for significant moments in your life. Just as the basin was designed for cleansing, consider what you need to release or address to approach your goals with clarity and purpose. Creating a space that aligns with your values can enhance your focus and spiritual readiness.
What does 'ten in a cubit' mean in this context?
'Ten in a cubit' refers to the arrangement of the oxen figures around the basin, indicating that there were ten oxen for every cubit of the basin's circumference. This detail emphasizes abundance and stability in the design, suggesting that the basin was not only functional but also a grand and impressive structure.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.