2 Chronicles 3:17
And he reared up the pillars before the temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left; and called the name of that on the right hand Jachin, and the name of that on the left Boaz.
2 Chronicles 3:17 · King James Version
Meaning
In the book of 1 Kings, chapter 7, verse 21, it is written that King Solomon reared up two pillars before the temple he built - one on the right hand and the other on the left. These pillars were named Jachin and Boaz respectively. The significance of these pillars goes beyond their physical presence. Jachin, which means "he establishes," symbolizes the strength and stability of the temple. This pillar represents the establishment of God's kingdom on earth and His faithfulness to His people. On the other hand, Boaz, which means "strength," signifies the support and security that God provides to His followers. Together, these pillars serve as a reminder to the people of Israel of the strength, stability, and faithfulness of God, as well as the importance of seeking His support and protection in their lives. Thus, the naming of these pillars was not merely a formality but a symbolic gesture to convey important spiritual truths to the nation of Israel.
Theological Overview
The verse describing the erection of the pillars Jachin and Boaz in front of the temple holds significant theological symbolism. The names of the pillars, Jachin and Boaz, carry deep meaning in Hebrew. Jachin means "he will establish" and Boaz means "in him is strength." Together, these pillars not only physically supported the temple but also conveyed a spiritual message. Jachin represents the establishment of God's promises and the unwavering faithfulness of God in upholding His covenant with His people. Boaz, on the other hand, signifies the strength that believers can find in God. These pillars remind us of God's faithfulness and strength in our lives, serving as a visual representation of the pillars of our faith. By understanding the theological interpretation and word studies of this verse, we can see the deeper significance behind the physical structures in the Bible, realizing that they often carry spiritual truths and lessons for us to ponder.
2 Chronicles 3:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he set up the pillars before the temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left; and called the name of that on the right hand Jachin, and the name of that on the left Boaz.
World English Bible
He set up the pillars before the temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left; and called the name of that on the right hand Jachin, and the name of that on the left Boaz.
Douay-Rheims
These pillars he put at the entrance of the temple, one on the right hand, and the other on the left: that which was on the right hand, he called Jachin: and that on the left hand, Booz.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he set vp the pillars before the Temple, one on the right hande and the other on the left, and called that on the right hand Iachin, and that on the left hand Boaz.