Definition: For he cast two pillars of brass, of eighteen cubits high apiece: and a line of twelve cubits did compass either of them about.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this very old passage from 1 Kings 7:15. It’s a fascinating detail that speaks to the ancient practice of making sacrifices and honoring God. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a massive, incredibly precise altar – a platform – built for offering. Here's a breakdown of each part: “For he cast two pillars of brass…” – This refers to two large, shiny metal pillars made of brass. These were the foundations of the altar. “…of eighteen cubits high apiece.” - Each pillar was 18 "cubits" (a unit of measurement in ancient times) tall. That’s roughly 6 feet tall! “And a line of twelve cubits did compass either of them about.” – Now, this is the really interesting part. A “line” meant a straight path. The priests then carefully drew a straight line along each pillar. They made sure that each line was exactly 12 cubits long. What does it all mean? This imagery is symbolic and points to several key ideas: Offering of Sacrifice: The altar was designed specifically for offering sacrifices, which were central to the Jewish religious practices at this time. Divine Perfection & Order: The precise measurements suggest a level of reverence and order that was deeply valued by the Israelites. It shows God was looking down on their offerings and requiring them to be perfectly aligned. Focus on the Divine: By meticulously measuring each pillar, the priests were demonstrating their devotion and commitment to honoring God through their actions. It wasn’t just about what they were offering, but how they offered it – with a great deal of care and attention. In short, this verse tells us that the ancient Israelites built a monumental altar for sacrifices, using incredibly precise measurements to show their reverence and connection to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Go into more detail about the historical context of this passage?