THEOSISJerome of Stridon
And he spoke to me, indicating this is the offering presented before the Lord. In the temple and sanctuary, there were two sets of doors on both sides, beautifully interconnected. Each side featured two doors, adorned with intricate carvings of cherubim and palm trees, similar to the designs found on the temple walls. Additionally, there were strong trees standing at the entrance of the vestibule, accompanied by slanted windows above. The likeness of palm trees embellished the shoulders of the vestibule, reflecting both the sides of the house and the breadth of the walls.
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The differences between the LXX translation and the Hebrew text are notable; for instance, where they translate "thicker trees" as σπουδαῖα, meaning essential or worthy of care, and "oblique windows" as "hidden." At the conclusion of the testimony, the measurement of the upper jambs or vestibule sides is described in terms that imply unity, indicating that they were connected in a way that carries similar weight.
Thus, the man guiding the prophet through the innermost sanctum of the temple also showcased the wooden altar, characterized by corners and horns, crafted from wood. He declared, "This altar you see is the offering before the Lord," which is reminiscent of a burning bush (Exodus 3:2) that blazes but does not consume. The psalmist notes, "Thou hast prepared before me a meal to resist them that suffer me" (Psalms 22:5). Within the temple and the sanctuary itself, the two sets of doors symbolize the ordinances of the two covenants. Each set of doors features an equal number on either side, connected in a way that offers both spiritual insight and historical truth, as one complements the other; lacking one means there is no complete understanding.
The repetition regarding the doors on each side is clear when observed literally. In large dining halls, it is common to find neighboring doors that provide access, thus creating larger entries through smaller pairs. The doors to the temple or holy of holies displayed the cherubim and palm trees previously mentioned, signifying that as knowledge increases, so does the promise of victory to those who approach. This depiction of palm trees extended to the temple walls, reinforcing the reasoning behind the carvings of cherubim on the doors themselves.
The trees in the vestibule at the outer gate were notably sturdy, designed to support the detailed carvings. In a profound spiritual sense, the strength and beauty of the doors prevented unauthorized intrusion into the holy of holies, safeguarding the sanctity of the priesthood (2 Chronicles 26). Above these doors, there were angled or hidden windows, ensuring that the light entering was not fully comprehensible or easily accessible, remaining partially concealed from most. For now, we perceive in part (1 Cor. 13:12) and lack the full understanding; however, when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away with (1 Cor. 13:10).
On either side, the likeness of palm trees appeared. Within the temple and holy of holies, the sides were designated not as right and left, avoiding any implication of left-hand absence within the great mystery. Instead, it was stated: "on this side and on the other," as conveyed in the Gospel: "If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matthew 5:39). It could have been phrased inclusively perhaps to include "the left," but when the right is struck, it is the other right that is offered, illustrating that in a righteous individual, both sides are in harmony, both are whole.
In the narthex, on the sides of the house, and across the width of the walls, instead of "this," the LXX translates as "on the coverings of the vestibule," indicating the balance of weight and measure. This highlights that the pillars of the upper jamb or vestibule (which likely refers to the shoulders) and the sides of the house, as well as the breadth of the walls, display order and measure, confirming that the temple of the Lord is meticulously arranged with wisdom and purpose.