1 Kings 6:20
And the oracle in the forepart was twenty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth, and twenty cubits in the height thereof: and he overlaid it with pure gold; and so covered the altar which was of cedar.
1 Kings 6:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes the construction of the inner sanctuary of the temple that King Solomon built for the Lord in Jerusalem. The oracle, also known as the Holy of Holies, was a special room where the presence of God resided. The dimensions of the oracle are significant as they symbolize perfection and completeness in the eyes of God. The use of pure gold to overlay the oracle and cover the altar made of cedar signifies the preciousness and holiness of the space dedicated to God. Gold is often associated with divinity and purity, highlighting the sacredness of the temple and the importance of worshiping God with reverence and honor. The choice of cedar wood for the altar also holds symbolic meaning, as cedar is known for its durability and strength, reflecting the everlasting nature of God's presence in the temple. Overall, this verse emphasizes the grandeur and sanctity of the Israelites' place of worship, showcasing their devotion to God through the meticulous design and materials used in the construction of the temple.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of the verse can be seen through the symbolism of the measurements of the oracle. The fact that it is twenty cubits in length, breadth, and height could symbolize completeness and perfection, as the number twenty often represents wholeness in the Bible. Additionally, the use of pure gold to overlay the oracle may signify the divine nature and purity of the space within the temple. The covering of the cedar altar with gold could be a reflection of the transformation of the earthly and temporal into something holy and eternal, reflecting the sanctification of the material world for the worship of God.
1 Kings 6:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And within the oracle was [a space of] twenty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth, and twenty cubits in the height thereof; and he overlaid it with pure gold: and he covered the altar with cedar.
World English Bible
Within the oracle was twenty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth, and twenty cubits in its height; and he overlaid it with pure gold: and he covered the altar with cedar.
Douay-Rheims
Now the oracle was twenty cubits in length, and twenty cubits in breadth, and twenty cubits in height. And he covered it, and overlaid it with most pure gold. And the altar also he covered with cedar.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the place of the oracle within was twentie cubites long, and twentie cubites broad, and twentie cubites hie, and hee couered it with pure golde, and couered the altar with cedar.