1 Chronicles 28:18

“and for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.”

Context:In 1 Chronicles 28, we find King David addressing the assembly of leaders, priests, and officials of Israel, including his son Solomon. David shares God’s charge to him to build the temple, but due to his role as a man of war, he is not allowed to construct it himself. Instead, David prepares everything necessary for the construction and passes on the responsibility to Solomon, his son. In verse 18, we encounter a specific detail mentioned by David regarding the materials for the temple.

The verse mentions refined gold being allocated by weight for the altar of incense. The altar of incense was a sacred piece of furniture used for burning incense before the Lord in the Tabernacle and later in the temple. It symbolized the prayers and worship offered to God. By emphasizing the use of refined gold, David highlights the importance of offering the finest and most valuable materials to honor and reverence God.

The Chariot of the Cherubim:David also mentions gold being designated for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubim. The cherubim were angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God. They were depicted on the mercy seat, which covered the Ark of the Covenant. The cherubim’s outstretched wings symbolized their role as guardians of the holiness of God and protectors of His covenant.

Overall, this verse highlights the meticulous attention to detail and reverence for God’s presence in the temple construction. The emphasis on using refined gold for the altar of incense and the chariot of the cherubim underscores the importance of offering our best to God and recognizing His holiness.