Definition: And the cedar of the house within [was] carved with knops and open flowers: all [was] cedar; there was no stone seen.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 6:18. It’s a really interesting detail about King Solomon building the Temple in Jerusalem! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very elaborate and beautiful carving on one of the cedar pillars within the Temple. It’s not just a simple decoration; it’s a complex design that shows incredible artistry and attention to detail. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the cedar of the house within [was] carved with knops…” – This means the cedar pillar was being carefully shaped, and it had little “knobs” or protrusions attached to it. Think of them as little bumps or indentations. “…and open flowers: all [was] cedar; there was no stone seen.” – This is where it gets really striking. The carvings on the cedar pillar were actually made of flowers! They looked like stylized, blossoming trees – “open flowers” - and they were completely covered in cedar wood. Crucially, there wasn’t a single stone or block of marble visible anywhere on the carving. What does it tell us about King Solomon? This is a powerful symbol of: Divine Majesty: The detail and artistry involved suggest that King Solomon was incredibly skilled and dedicated to God. It shows he was prioritizing the sacredness of his temple above all else. God’s Creation: The inclusion of flowers – representing life and beauty – demonstrates that God created not just stone, but also things that bring joy and wonder. In essence, this verse is a testament to Solomon's brilliance and the importance he placed on honoring God through his creations. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you more context about the Temple building in Jerusalem? Discuss the symbolism of this carving in more detail?