Matthew Poole and continuators on 1 Kings 7:25

25 It stood upon twelve oxen , three looking toward the north, and three looking toward the west, and three looking toward the south, and three looking toward the east : and the sea was set above upon them, and all their hinder-parts were inward.

Of solid Brass, which was necessary to bear so great a weight. It is probably conceived, that the Water was by Cocks drawn out of the Mouths of these Oxen.

Partly, for the more equal and convenient support of the Vessel; and partly, that divers persons might draw Water out of it at the same time, which was frequently necessary, especially in great Solemnities.