2 Chronicles 4:3

“And under it was the similitude of oxen, which did compass it round about: ten in a cubit, compassing the sea round about. Two rows of oxen were cast, when it was cast.”

Context: This verse is part of a description of the bronze sea or the “molten sea” that was created by King Solomon for the temple in Jerusalem.

The bronze sea was a large basin used for ritual purification and was situated in the court of the priests.

In this verse, the focus is on the decorative elements of the bronze sea.

It describes the “similitude of oxen” which surrounded the basin.

The oxen were cast in bronze, and there were ten oxen in a cubit.

The term “cubit” refers to a unit of measurement, representing the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, which is about 18 inches (45 centimeters).

So, there were ten oxen within 18 inches, forming a circumference around the basin.

Additionally, the verse mentions that there were two rows of oxen cast when the basin was made.

This implies that the oxen were arranged in two rows, encircling the bronze sea.

This verse highlights the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into constructing the temple and its furnishings during Solomon’s reign.

It signifies the importance placed on creating a grand and awe-inspiring place of worship.

Overall, 2 Chronicles 4:3 provides us with a glimpse into the architectural and artistic elements of the temple in Jerusalem and the level of care and detail that was invested in its construction.