פַּרְוָר (par.bar)
par.bar
colonnade
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun parvar refers to an open structure or colonnade, specifically one attached to the west side of Solomon’s Temple. It appears in only two biblical passages, both describing architectural details associated with the First Temple complex.
Lexical sources identify it as an "open apartment" or building extension, suggesting a covered walkway or portico that provided sheltered access to the main sanctuary. This rare term highlights the specific layout of the temple grounds, marking a distinct structural element separate from the inner holy spaces but integral to the overall design.
Its occurrence in 1 Chronicles and 2 Kings underscores its historical significance as part of the physical framework established during Solomon’s reign. The word’s scarcity emphasizes that while most biblical architecture receives detailed description, this particular feature remains a specific, localized detail within the broader narrative of Israel’s worship centers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word parvar describes a colonnade, an open structure with columns that likely served as a covered walkway or portico attached to the west side of Solomon’s Temple. In ancient Israel, such architectural features provided sheltered access to the sanctuary while remaining distinct from the inner holy spaces. This detail reminds us that worship involved not just spiritual devotion but also physical places designed to honor God with care and precision.
When we read about these structures in 1 Chronicles 26:18, we see how the temple complex was carefully organized to facilitate orderly access for those approaching the Lord. The colonnade may have offered a transitional space where people could pause before entering more sacred areas, reflecting a rhythm of approach and reverence. Such design elements help us appreciate the intentionality behind biblical worship spaces.
Though this term appears only twice in Scripture, it points to the broader reality that God values both the spiritual and physical dimensions of our lives. Just as the temple’s architecture invited orderly access to His presence, we too are called to approach God with reverence and gratitude. This ancient structure stands as a quiet reminder of how God meets us in tangible ways, inviting us into deeper relationship with Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- for the/ Parbar2×
- [was] in the/ Parbar1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לַ/פַּרְבָּֽר\׃1×
- לַ/פַּרְבָּ֖ר1×
- בַּ/פַּרְוָרִ֑ים1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 26:18
For Parbar westward, four at the causeway, and two at Parbar.
This verse explicitly names the Parbar colonnade westward, highlighting its role as a structured access point within the temple’s outer court.