Definition: The nethermost chamber [was] five cubits broad, and the middle [was] six cubits broad, and the third [was] seven cubits broad: for without [in the wall] of the house he made narrowed rests round about, that [the beams] should not be fastened in the walls of the house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage from the Book of 1 Kings! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very small, enclosed space – think of it as a tiny room – built within a house. The purpose was to create a safe and secure area around the beams (the supports) of the house. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The nethermost chamber” : This refers to a very dark, secluded part of the house. “Five cubits broad, and six cubits broad, and seven cubits broad” : This is where it gets interesting. "Cubits" were ancient units of measurement – roughly equivalent to 12 inches or 30 centimeters. So, these numbers describe the width of the room in each direction (length and breadth). “For without in the wall of the house he made narrowed rests round about…” : This is the crucial part. The builder didn’t want the beams to be directly attached to the walls of the house. He created a circular or oval-shaped space around the beams, like a little "pocket" or enclosure. “That the beams should not be fastened in the walls of the house” : This is the point of the whole thing. By creating this space, he was protecting the beams from being damaged or broken by the weight of the house itself. Why was this done? This practice likely happened during a time when there were disputes and tensions within the kingdom of Israel. It’s believed that the builder created this enclosed space to help maintain peace and prevent conflict. It's also possible it had a symbolic purpose – representing a secure, protected area for the people. In short: This verse describes a very small room built into a house to protect the beams and create a safe zone around them. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context (when was this likely happening)? Talk about why it might have been used as a symbolic act?