What was the temple, and what did it mean?
The temple in Jerusalem was the permanent successor to the tabernacle — God’s house in Israel, the place of sacrifice and prayer. Built by Solomon, destroyed by Babylon, rebuilt under Zerubbabel, expanded by Herod, destroyed by Rome (AD 70).
The temple was the center of Israel’s worship and identity. Pilgrims came three times a year. Priests ministered daily. God’s glory was understood to dwell uniquely there.
Jesus radically reframed it: "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" — speaking of his body (John 2:19–21). Christ is the true temple.
And now, by his Spirit, the church corporately and Christians individually are also called God’s temple (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19). Where Christ’s people are, there God dwells.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.