Jachin and Boaz

Concept

Jachin and Boaz were the two great bronze pillars erected at the entrance of Solomon's temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 7:15–22; 2 Chr. 3:15–17). Each pillar was 18 cubits high (approximately 27 feet) and 12 cubits in circumference, topped with an elaborate capital of lily-work and chains decorated with pomegranates. Jachin ("he shall establish") stood on the right (south) side of the entrance, and Boaz ("in it is strength") on the left (north). Their precise function has been debated: whether they were structural supports, freestanding memorial pillars, or great lamp-stands. Their names together may have proclaimed a royal dedication formula: "He shall establish in strength." Both pillars were destroyed and carried to Babylon when Nebuchadnezzar sacked Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:13; Jer. 52:17–23).