מלכים א, פרק ו׳, פסוק ד׳

The construction of the Temple required a unique architectural design where even the physical openings carried deep spiritual and practical significance. The design of the sanctuary's windows, described as being both transparent and completely sealed, presents a fascinating contradiction that commentators resolve in several distinct ways.

The primary approach among commentators views this design as a profound spiritual message. Normal houses are built with windows structured to draw as much light as possible indoors. The Temple was built with the opposite intention, demonstrating that God does not need the light of the physical world. According to one perspective, the windows were wide on the inside and narrow on the outside. This structure symbolized that the light of the Divine Presence originates from within the sanctuary and radiates outward to illuminate the entire world [צאינה וראינה]. Conversely, another tradition suggests the windows were wide on the outside and narrow on the inside to emphasize that the Temple had no need for external light [רש"י, רד"ק, מלבי"ם]. Yet, this view faces a geometric challenge, as a funnel shape that is wider on the outside would actually draw more light into the building [רלב"ג, אברבנאל].

A second approach focuses on the practical architecture of royal buildings. The seemingly contradictory description implies windows with partial openings, crafted with fine lattices or grates. This setup allowed light to enter and permitted those inside to look out, while completely preventing anyone on the outside from peering in [אברבנאל]. Others suggest the windows were built diagonally through the thick walls, or featured high outer openings and low inner openings. This angled design allowed light to filter in indirectly, creating a physical barrier that stopped people from gazing directly at the glory of God resting within the sanctuary [אברבנאל, אהבת יהונתן, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A simpler explanation is that these were standard windows fitted with doors that could be shut [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A third approach resolves the contradiction through the materials used, suggesting the windows were made of glass. They were transparent, allowing light to pass through and offering clear visibility, yet they were simultaneously blocked and sealed because the solid glass created a physical barrier against the outside air [מצודת דוד, מלבי"ם, אברבנאל].