by snowbird 26 Replies latest watchtower bible
Two bronze pillars located at the entrance to King Solomon's Temple. 1 Kings 7.
They were made and set in place by Hiram - Jachin to the south (right) meaning "establish or security," Boaz to the north (left) meaning "strength."
I wonder if they symbolized the end-time Two Witnesses?
Sylvia
Well, the tradition of two end-time witnesses is very late, dating to the Hellenistic era at the earliest (appearing first in the Animal Apocalypse, which dates to about 201-160 BC, where the two witnesses are Enoch and Elijah, as in later Christian tradition although in Revelation they are Moses and Elijah), as it depends on an eschatology that is itself post-exilic. I suppose one could read such symbolism into the architectural details of the Temple, but I know of no such tradition that in fact does so. Also, I don't recall these pillars specified in a special emphasized (symbolic) way in visions of the eschatological temple in Ezekiel (40:49), 4QNew Jerusalem (4Q554 I 3:22), the Temple Scroll (11QTemple 30:9, 31:9), or Revelation (where all Christians become pillars in the Temple, cf. 3:12),
More info on these pillars: Enjoy!
Yet one more example of puzzling Old Testament near-occultism.
Also, I don't recall these pillars specified in a special emphasized (symbolic) way in visions of the eschatological temple in Ezekiel (40:49),
Thanks, Leo. How'd you know I'm on a search for that very thing?
MJNM, I am intrigued to find that these pillars are associated with Freemasonry.
Yet one more example of puzzling Old Testament near-occultism.
JWoods, when I figure out the symbolism of the red heifer, you'll be one of the first to know.
Sylvia
Got Pillars?
Where is Ninja when you need him?
Sylvia
Always where you least expect him.
Always.
I think they symbolize two big sticks.
gotta love those phallic symbols!
