2 Chronicles 3:11

Arabic Bible Life (Targamet El Hayah) (LA)

وكان طول كل جناح من أجنحة الكروبين خمس أذرع (نحو مترين ونصف المتر)، فكانت في جملتها عشرين ذراعا (نحو عشرة أمتار). ومس طرف جناح الكروبيم الخارجي جدار الهيكل أما طرفه الداخلي فتلامس مع طرف جناح الكروبيم الآخر.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes the cherubim in Solomon's temple. Each cherub has wings that are twenty cubits long, with one wing touching the temple wall and the other reaching out to touch the wing of another cherub. This verse gives a detailed description of the cherubim's size and placement.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have two giant, friendly angels in your room. Each has big wings that are so long they almost touch the walls. One wing reaches to the wall, and the other reaches out to touch the wing of the other angel. It's like they're hugging each other with their wings!

Historical Background

The Chronicler wrote this part of the text, which is part of the historical books of the Old Testament, around the 5th century BCE. The audience was likely the returning exiles after the Babylonian captivity, and the cultural setting was one of rebuilding and restoration of the temple and worship practices.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this can remind us of the importance of community and support. Just as the cherubim's wings touch each other, we can support and encourage each other in our faith and daily lives, creating a strong and connected community.

Topics

• worship
• temple
• cherubim
• Solomon
• faith
• reconstruction

Related Verses

• Exodus 25:18
• 1 Kings 6:23
• Ezekiel 1:10
• Revelation 4:8
• 1 Samuel 4:4

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the cherubim's wings touching the wall?

The wings touching the wall signify the cherubim's guardianship over the sanctuary and their role in separating the holy space from the mundane.

How do we know the measurements in this verse?

The measurements are provided in the text, using the ancient unit 'cubits,' which helps us understand the scale and grandeur of Solomon's temple.

Why are there two cherubim described?

The two cherubim are likely a representation of divine guardianship, symbolizing the presence and protection of God over the sanctuary and the Ark of the Covenant.

What can we learn from the cherubim's positioning?

We can learn about the importance of unity and support in community, just as the cherubim's wings touch each other, reflecting the need for mutual support and unity in faith.