Temples are a central theme in the Bible, serving as places of worship, prayer, and divine presence. But what exactly are temples for, what happened in them, and what is their significance today? The Scriptures provide extensive insights into these sacred places.
The Lord Instructed David to Build a Temple
In 2 Samuel 7:4-6, the Lord spoke to Nathan, instructing David:
“Go and tell my servant David, ‘Thus saith the Lord: Thou shalt build me a house to dwell in, for I have not dwelt in any house since the time I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle.'”
Although David was given the instruction, it was his son Solomon who would ultimately build the temple, as detailed in 1 Kings 5:3-5. Solomon’s temple was a magnificent structure designed according to God’s precise instructions.
Design and Construction of the Temple
The Bible provides detailed descriptions of the temple’s design, materials, and dimensions. For example, Solomon built the house of the Lord on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem. The temple included a porch, a veil of blue, purple, crimson, and fine linen, and pillars adorned with pomegranates and chains. Symbolism played a significant role, with many elements representing divine principles.
The Altar
The altar was made of brass, where animal sacrifices were offered as symbols of Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. This was a key feature of the temple, highlighting the importance of atonement and symbolism.
The Baptismal Font
Another remarkable feature was the “molten sea,” a large basin supported by twelve oxen facing different directions (1 Kings 7:23-25). This design is reflected in modern temples, where baptismal fonts often rest on twelve oxen, symbolizing strength and divine order.
Other Temple Items
The temple also contained smaller basins for cleansing, ten golden candlesticks representing the Tree of Life, and other sacred implements used in ordinances. These items emphasized purification, reverence, and the spiritual symbolism behind temple practices.
The Ark of the Covenant
The Ark of the Covenant was brought into the temple by priests and Levites, placed in the Most Holy Place beneath the cherubim. This sacred placement symbolized God’s presence and the central focus of the temple as His dwelling.
Solomon’s Dedicatory Prayer
Solomon dedicated the temple with prayer, inviting the Lord to dwell there and blessing His people:
“Now therefore arise, O Lord God, into thy resting place, thou and the Ark of thy strength; let thy priests be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.”
The Lord accepted the temple, and His glory filled the house, confirming the sacredness of the temple and the acceptance of the offerings.
Destruction and Restoration of the Temple
Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed when Jerusalem was conquered by Babylon (2 Kings 25:7-9). The sacred items were taken, but later, efforts were made to restore the temple and its artifacts (Ezra 6:5), maintaining its role as a house of God and a place of worship.
The Temple as the Mountain of the Lord
The temple is often described as the “mountain of the Lord,” a place of teaching, worship, and divine instruction (Isaiah 2:3). Jesus Himself experienced and taught in temples, emphasizing that while temples are important, the presence of God is the most significant aspect.
Jesus in the Temple
As a young man, Jesus was found teaching in the temple (Luke 2:46), demonstrating its role as a center for learning and spiritual growth. Later, He cleared the temple of merchants (Matthew 21:12-13), reaffirming its sacred purpose as a house of prayer.
Serving in the Temple
The Bible highlights the importance of serving in the temple. Revelation 7:15 describes the faithful serving God day and night in His temple. Temples are not just historical structures—they are active places of worship and service where God’s presence can dwell among His people.
Temples Around the World
Temples have been built worldwide, following principles from the Temple of Solomon. In the Americas, as described in 2 Nephi 5:16, temples were constructed with similar care, attention, and sacred symbolism, even when precious materials were not available.
The Kirtland Temple and Modern Temples
The Kirtland Temple, dedicated in 1836, followed a similar purpose to Solomon’s temple. Doctrine & Covenants sections 109 and 110 describe dedicatory prayers, the presence of the Spirit, and visits from Jesus Christ Himself. Temples today continue this legacy, serving as houses of prayer, learning, and sacred covenants.
What I Love About the Temple
I love visiting temples, learning about their history, and participating in sacred ordinances. The temple is a place of prayer, reflection, and connection with God. Its symbolism, sacredness, and the covenants made there strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ and deepen our understanding of His atonement.
In summary, temples are not just physical structures—they are sacred spaces where heaven meets earth, where prayers are offered, covenants are made, and the Spirit of the Lord can dwell. They have been central to worship throughout history and continue to hold profound spiritual significance today.
