מלכים א, פרק ו׳, פסוק כ״ט

The design of the Temple walls combined spectacular visual art to create a sense of harmony throughout the entire building. While the general decoration of the walls was established earlier, a closer look reveals the specific inclusion of cherubim in the artwork. Because large, free-standing cherubim stood inside the Holy of Holies, their forms were mirrored in the surrounding wall art [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל]. These decorations were crafted onto the wooden walls and the inner ribs of the structure [רש״י, מצודת דוד], wrapping around the space from every side [רד״ק, אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The artwork consisted of drawings and designs that completely covered the walls [רש״י, מצודת דוד, רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Some commentators note that these designs resembled curtains or tree branches [רלב״ג], while others describe them as intricate, braided patterns [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The technique used was deep wood carving, similar to the way a seal is engraved [מצודת ציון]. This carving featured intertwined shapes [ביאור שטיינזלץ] and rope-like figures [רש״י].

Unlike the physical, three-dimensional cherubim that stood inside the Holy of Holies, the figures on the walls were strictly engraved and drawn, remaining flush with the surface rather than protruding outward [רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Along with the cherubim, the carved shapes included palm trees, branches, and buds [מצודת ציון, רלב״ג, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ], as well as open flowers and stems [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This magnificent artistry was not limited to a single area. There is unanimous agreement among commentators that these special decorations graced both the inner room, known as the Holy of Holies, and the outer room, which served as the main hall.