Definition: It stood upon twelve oxen, three looking toward the north, and three looking toward the west, and three looking toward the south, and three looking toward the east: and the sea [was set] above upon them, and all their hinder parts [were] inward.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 7:25. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s covenant with Israel! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it describes a magnificent temple structure built for the Israelites. “It stood upon twelve oxen…” – This refers to twelve separate oxen that were used to build the temple. Think of them as twelve powerful figures representing the twelve tribes of Israel. “…three looking toward the north, and three looking toward the west, and three looking toward the south, and three looking toward the east:” - These are key! These three groups represent the different regions of Israel – North, West, South, and East. They were all positioned to face each other, like a compass pointing in different directions. “and three looking toward the east:” - This is crucial. It signifies that God was directing them all towards him. It’s about God's presence and focus on Israel. “and all their hinder parts [were] inward.” – This is where it gets really powerful. “Hinder parts” means the entire structure, including the foundation, walls, and everything inside, was contained within the temple. It wasn’t just a building; it was a symbol of God's presence and protection within Israel. What does this all tell us? This verse shows that God established a very special, powerful place – a temple – specifically for his people. It symbolizes: God's Sovereignty: He is in control and directing everything. Israel’s Focus: They were focused on him and their relationship with him. A Sacred Space: The temple was designed to be a place of worship, holiness, and God’s presence. In short, it's a description of a monumental and symbolically charged temple built for the Israelites as a testament to God’s rule. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the broader context of the Old Testament?