1 Kings 7:28
And the worke of the bases was on this maner: they had borders, and the borders were betweene the ledges: 1 Kings 7:28 (KJV)
And the work of the bases
was on this
manner: they had borders, and the borders were between the ledges: 1 Kings 7:28 (KJV)
“And the work of the bases was on this manner: they had borders, and the borders were between the ledges.” In this verse, we find a description of the work that was done on the bases of the ten lavers, which were made for the house of the Lord by King Solomon. This quotation does not appear in the biblical text of 1 Kings 7. To understand the context of this verse, it is helpful to look at the preceding verses. In 1 Kings 7, the chapter primarily focuses on the construction of various elements of the temple during the reign of Solomon. Specifically, 1 Kings 7:13‑51 describes the creation of the pillars, the molten sea, the ten bases, and other items made for the temple. Verses 27‑28 specifically discuss the bases for the ten bronze lavers, describing their casting and decorative features. These bases were large brass basins used for ceremonial purposes and were crafted with considerable skill, reflecting the elaborate artistry characteristic of the temple’s interior. The verse mentions that the bases had borders, and these borders were between the ledges. It likely refers to decorative borders or frames that were placed on or around the bases. The purpose of these borders may have been to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bases or to provide additional structural support. And the work of the bases was on this manner: they had borders, and the borders were between the brasen sea and the bases. In this context, the work on the bases relates to the decorative elements added to the bronze structures that supported various items in Solomon’s temple. The passage in 1 Kings 7 describes the bases for the temple’s bronze furnishings, noting their ornamental design—such as lily motifs—though it does not mention borders situated between ledges. To understand the broader setting, it helps to consider the surrounding verses.
