Throne
“Seat, covered seat”
Summary
A throne was an elevated seat symbolizing authority and dignity, used by kings, judges, and priests, and applied metaphorically to God's sovereign rule and Christ's exalted position.
☩Physical Description
The characteristic feature of a royal throne was its elevation; Solomon's throne was approached by six steps. The materials and workmanship were costly: Solomon's throne was made of ivory overlaid with pure gold, furnished with arms, and lined with pairs of lions on each step. The top was round behind, and a golden footstool was fastened to it. Thrones were typically placed on a raised platform under a canopy, similar to the rainbow around God's throne described in Revelation.
☩Symbol of Authority
A throne applied to any elevated seat occupied by a person in authority—high priest, judge, or military chief. In a culture where squatting and reclining were usual postures, a chair marked dignity. To 'sit upon the throne' implied the exercise of royal power, and 'to sit upon the throne of another' indicated succession to royal dignity. The king sat on his throne on state occasions wearing royal robes when granting audiences, receiving homage, or administering justice.
☩God's Throne
The throne is attributed to Jehovah both in His heavenly abode and His earthly sanctuary. Heaven itself is called God's throne, expressing His incomparable greatness. His reign is founded on righteousness and justice, is of eternal duration, and manifests His holiness and grace. The ark of the covenant between the cherubim was considered Jehovah's throne, where the invisible King of Israel dwelt among His people.
☩Christ's Throne
The Messianic reign of Jesus fulfills the promise that He would receive 'the throne of his father David.' Christ is now seated at the right hand of God's throne and will one day sit on 'the throne of his glory' to judge the nations. He promises His overcoming followers that they will sit with Him on His throne, as He sat down with His Father on His throne. In Revelation, 'the throne of God and of the Lamb' expresses the shared divine rule.
Related Verses166 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Throne," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Throne," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 3.George Morrish, "Throne," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 4.James Orr (ed.), "Throne," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 5.James Hastings (ed.), "Throne," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).