1 Kings 7:42
And four hundred pomegranates for the two networks, even two rows of pomegranates for one network, to cover the two bowls of the chapiters that were upon the pillars; And four hundred pomegranates for the two networks, even two rows of pomegranates for one network, to cover the two bowls of the chapiters that were upon the pillars;
The verse belongs to the history of the undivided kingdom under Solomon told in 1 Kings 1 to 11, parallel to 2 Chronicles 1 to 9, coming here in chronological order. It stands in the latter part of 1 Kings 7 giving details of the building and furniture of the temple, including its sacred vessels, furnishings, and architectural details. That building and furniture, with the dedication prayer and sacrifices and the divine answer to Solomon's prayer, are to be especially noted.
In this chapter Solomon built his own house only after he had finished the house of Jehovah, rather than putting himself first. The temple had two holy places and sacred vessels of the same kinds as the tabernacle, showing that it followed the same plan and served the same ministry. Its design, including the pomegranates on the pillar capitals, formed part of a pattern of the heavenly temple, which likewise has two holy places.
The exact arrangement of four hundred pomegranates in two rows for the two networks to cover the two bowls of the capitals on the pillars shows the special wisdom God gave to the builders of the temple. The God-given power of invention is given for the benefit of the masses and for the furtherance of His cause.