In the construction of Solomon’s magnificent temple the architect erected pillars, then named two of them specifically:

He erected the pillars at the portico of the temple. The pillar to the south he named Jakin and the one to the north Boaz.

What lies behind the choosing of these names?

Jakin means he will establish, and Boaz means in him is strength. When entering the temple these two columns reminded worshippers of their dependence on Yahweh. The Lord established the nation of Israel, and the Lord held robust force found no where else.

Twin pillars of stability and strength supported the nation of Israel and their house of worship, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

It’s good for me to grasp the meaning behind Jakin and Boaz. Because I easily forget the Lord’s hand in my life, it’s also good for me to recognize that my heart cries out for visible reminders of the Lord’s stability and strength.

1 Kings 7 in reading the Bible in 2023

Photo by Hisham Zayadneh