Checker-work; (Network)
Definition and Description
Checker-work, also referred to as "network" in some translations, describes an ornamental pattern of interwoven or latticed design used in the construction of Solomon's temple and in the crafting of priestly garments. The Hebrew word "sebakhah" refers to a netlike or latticed structure, while a related term describes the woven pattern of the priestly coat. The exact appearance of this ornamentation is not fully known, but it involved an intricate interlacing pattern that demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship.
Checker-work on the Temple Pillars
The most prominent use of checker-work appears in the description of the two great bronze pillars that stood at the entrance of Solomon's temple, named Jachin and Boaz (1 Kings 7:15-22). These pillars were approximately 27 feet tall and were topped with elaborate capitals decorated with checker-work, chains, and rows of pomegranates (1 Kings 7:17). The network design covered the capitals of both pillars, creating a visually striking display at the entrance to God's house.
The pillars and their ornamentation were the work of Hiram, a master craftsman from Tyre whom Solomon commissioned for the bronze work of the temple (1 Kings 7:13-14). The level of detail in the biblical description reflects the extraordinary care given to every element of the temple's construction.
The Priestly Coat of Checker-work
Checker-work also appears in the description of the priestly garments. In Exodus 28:4, among the garments prescribed for Aaron the high priest is a "coat of checker work" (some translations render this as a "skillfully woven tunic" or "broidered coat"). This garment was made of fine linen with an interwoven pattern, demonstrating that even the clothing of those who served in God's presence required exceptional artistry and care (Exodus 28:39).
Symbolism of Sacred Craftsmanship
The use of elaborate decorative patterns in both the temple and priestly garments served a theological purpose. Beauty in worship was not incidental but intentional. God commanded Moses to fill the tabernacle and its furnishings with artistic excellence, calling Bezalel and Oholiab and filling them with His Spirit for this very purpose (Exodus 31:1-6). The checker-work on Solomon's temple continued this tradition of sacred artistry.
Every detail of the temple was designed to communicate the holiness, glory, and majesty of the God who dwelt there. The intricacy of the checker-work suggested order, complexity, and purposeful design, qualities that reflect the Creator Himself.
The Temple as a Whole
The checker-work on the pillars was just one element of the temple's extensive ornamentation, which included carved cherubim, palm trees, open flowers, and pomegranates (1 Kings 6:29; 7:18-20). Together, these decorative elements transformed the temple into a place of extraordinary beauty that pointed worshipers toward the glory of God. The destruction of the temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC (2 Kings 25:13-17) included the dismantling of these bronze pillars and their ornate checker-work, marking one of the greatest losses in Israel's history.
Biblical Context
Checker-work appears in 1 Kings 7:17 as decoration on the capitals of the temple pillars Jachin and Boaz, and in Exodus 28:4, 39 as the pattern for the high priest's tunic. Both contexts emphasize skilled craftsmanship in service of worship.
Theological Significance
The checker-work ornamentation reflects the biblical principle that worship should involve beauty and excellence. God commanded artistic craftsmanship for both the tabernacle and the temple, demonstrating that physical beauty in sacred spaces serves to honor God and point worshipers toward His glory and holiness.
Historical Background
Ancient Near Eastern temples commonly featured elaborate decorative patterns, including lattice and network designs. Archaeological discoveries at sites in Phoenicia and Syria show similar ornamental patterns on temple columns and furnishings. Solomon's use of a Tyrian craftsman (Hiram) connects the temple's artistry to the broader artistic traditions of the region.