Definition: And the mouth of it within the chapiter and above [was] a cubit: but the mouth thereof [was] round [after] the work of the base, a cubit and an half: and also upon the mouth of it [were] gravings with their borders, foursquare, not round.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 7:31. It's a really interesting and slightly unusual detail about King David’s temple in Jerusalem! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a peculiar shape on the surface of the temple’s altar. Think of it like this: The altar was made of stone, and it had a little “pocket” or indentation. This pocket wasn’t perfectly round – it was shaped like a half-circle and about half a cubit (which is roughly 18 inches) wide. What's so unusual? It was not perfectly round. It had a slight curve, almost like a rounded square. It had carvings – borders and markings. The surface of the altar was covered with carvings that defined its edges. These carvings formed a pattern: four squares, but they weren't all perfectly aligned; there were gaps between them. Why did this happen? This is where it gets a little more complex. The Bible says it was done to protect the temple from being damaged by insects and animals. The carvings served as a barrier, preventing these creatures from getting inside. It's like a protective shield! In short: This verse describes a slightly irregular shape on the altar of David’s temple – a bit more complex than a perfectly round surface – to safeguard it from pests. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you some context about the time this happened? Talk about the symbolism behind this detail?