Ezekiel Chapter 40

Commentary

The Man with a Measuring Rod

(Zechariah 2:1-5)

1In the five and twentieth year of our captivity, in the beginning of the year, in the tenth day of the month, in the fourteenth year after that the city was smitten, in the selfsame day the hand of the LORD was upon me, and brought me thither. 2In the visions of God brought he me into the land of Israel, and set me upon a very high mountain, by which was as the frame of a city on the south. 3And he brought me thither, and, behold, there was a man, whose appearance was like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate. 4And the man said unto me, Son of man, behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears, and set thine heart upon all that I shall shew thee; for to the intent that I might shew them unto thee art thou brought hither: declare all that thou seest to the house of Israel.

The East Gate

5And behold a wall on the outside of the house round about, and in the man's hand a measuring reed of six cubits long by the cubit and an hand breadth: so he measured the breadth of the building, one reed; and the height, one reed. 6Then came he unto the gate which looketh toward the east, and went up the stairs thereof, and measured the threshold of the gate, which was one reed broad; and the other threshold of the gate, which was one reed broad. 7And every little chamber was one reed long, and one reed broad; and between the little chambers were five cubits; and the threshold of the gate by the porch of the gate within was one reed. 8He measured also the porch of the gate within, one reed. 9Then measured he the porch of the gate, eight cubits; and the posts thereof, two cubits; and the porch of the gate was inward. 10And the little chambers of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side. 11And he measured the breadth of the entry of the gate, ten cubits; and the length of the gate, thirteen cubits. 12The space also before the little chambers was one cubit on this side, and the space was one cubit on that side: and the little chambers were six cubits on this side, and six cubits on that side. 13He measured then the gate from the roof of one little chamber to the roof of another: the breadth was five and twenty cubits, door against door. 14He made also posts of threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate. 15And from the face of the gate of the entrance unto the face of the porch of the inner gate were fifty cubits. 16And there were narrow windows to the little chambers, and to their posts within the gate round about, and likewise to the arches: and windows were round about inward: and upon each post were palm trees.

The Outer Court

17Then brought he me into the outward court, and, lo, there were chambers, and a pavement made for the court round about: thirty chambers were upon the pavement. 18And the pavement by the side of the gates over against the length of the gates was the lower pavement. 19Then he measured the breadth from the forefront of the lower gate unto the forefront of the inner court without, an hundred cubits eastward and northward.

The North Gate

20And the gate of the outward court that looked toward the north, he measured the length thereof, and the breadth thereof. 21And the little chambers thereof were three on this side and three on that side; and the posts thereof and the arches thereof were after the measure of the first gate: the length thereof was fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits. 22And their windows, and their arches, and their palm trees, were after the measure of the gate that looketh toward the east; and they went up unto it by seven steps; and the arches thereof were before them. 23And the gate of the inner court was over against the gate toward the north, and toward the east; and he measured from gate to gate an hundred cubits.

The South Gate

24After that he brought me toward the south, and behold a gate toward the south: and he measured the posts thereof and the arches thereof according to these measures. 25And there were windows in it and in the arches thereof round about, like those windows: the length was fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits. 26And there were seven steps to go up to it, and the arches thereof were before them: and it had palm trees, one on this side, and another on that side, upon the posts thereof. 27And there was a gate in the inner court toward the south: and he measured from gate to gate toward the south an hundred cubits.

The Gates of the Inner Court

28And he brought me to the inner court by the south gate: and he measured the south gate according to these measures; 29And the little chambers thereof, and the posts thereof, and the arches thereof, according to these measures: and there were windows in it and in the arches thereof round about: it was fifty cubits long, and five and twenty cubits broad. 30And the arches round about were five and twenty cubits long, and five cubits broad. 31And the arches thereof were toward the utter court; and palm trees were upon the posts thereof: and the going up to it had eight steps.

32And he brought me into the inner court toward the east: and he measured the gate according to these measures. 33And the little chambers thereof, and the posts thereof, and the arches thereof, were according to these measures: and there were windows therein and in the arches thereof round about: it was fifty cubits long, and five and twenty cubits broad. 34And the arches thereof were toward the outward court; and palm trees were upon the posts thereof, on this side, and on that side: and the going up to it had eight steps.

35And he brought me to the north gate, and measured it according to these measures; 36The little chambers thereof, the posts thereof, and the arches thereof, and the windows to it round about: the length was fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits. 37And the posts thereof were toward the utter court; and palm trees were upon the posts thereof, on this side, and on that side: and the going up to it had eight steps.

Eight Tables for Sacrifices

38And the chambers and the entries thereof were by the posts of the gates, where they washed the burnt offering. 39And in the porch of the gate were two tables on this side, and two tables on that side, to slay thereon the burnt offering and the sin offering and the trespass offering. 40And at the side without, as one goeth up to the entry of the north gate, were two tables; and on the other side, which was at the porch of the gate, were two tables. 41Four tables were on this side, and four tables on that side, by the side of the gate; eight tables, whereupon they slew their sacrifices. 42And the four tables were of hewn stone for the burnt offering, of a cubit and an half long, and a cubit and an half broad, and one cubit high: whereupon also they laid the instruments wherewith they slew the burnt offering and the sacrifice. 43And within were hooks, an hand broad, fastened round about: and upon the tables was the flesh of the offering.

Rooms for the Priests

44And without the inner gate were the chambers of the singers in the inner court, which was at the side of the north gate; and their prospect was toward the south: one at the side of the east gate having the prospect toward the north. 45And he said unto me, This chamber, whose prospect is toward the south, is for the priests, the keepers of the charge of the house. 46And the chamber whose prospect is toward the north is for the priests, the keepers of the charge of the altar: these are the sons of Zadok among the sons of Levi, which come near to the LORD to minister unto him.

The Inner Courtyard

47So he measured the court, an hundred cubits long, and an hundred cubits broad, foursquare; and the altar that was before the house.

48And he brought me to the porch of the house, and measured each post of the porch, five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side: and the breadth of the gate was three cubits on this side, and three cubits on that side. 49The length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; and he brought me by the steps whereby they went up to it: and there were pillars by the posts, one on this side, and another on that side.

King James Bible

Text courtesy of BibleProtector.com.

The Man with a Measuring Rod
(Zechariah 2:1–5)

1 In the five and twentieth year of our captivity, in the beginning of the year, in the tenth day of the month, in the fourteenth year after that the city was struck, in the same day, the hand of Yahweh was on me, and he brought me there. 2 In the visions of God brought he me into the land of Israel, and set me down on a very high mountain, whereon was as it were the frame of a city on the south. 3 He brought me there; and, behold, there was a man, whose appearance was like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate. 4 The man said to me, Son of man, see with your eyes, and hear with your ears, and set your heart on all that I shall show you; for, to the intent that I may show them to you, you are brought here: declare all that you see to the house of Israel.

The East Gate

5 Behold, a wall on the outside of the house all around, and in the man’s hand a measuring reed six cubits long, of a cubit and a handbreadth each: so he measured the thickness of the building, one reed; and the height, one reed. 6 Then came he to the gate which looks toward the east, and went up its steps: and he measured the threshold of the gate, one reed broad; and the other threshold, one reed broad. 7 Every lodge was one reed long, and one reed broad; and the space between the lodges was five cubits; and the threshold of the gate by the porch of the gate toward the house was one reed. 8 He measured also the porch of the gate toward the house, one reed. 9 Then measured he the porch of the gate, eight cubits; and its posts, two cubits; and the porch of the gate was toward the house. 10 The lodges of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side. 11 He measured the breadth of the opening of the gate, ten cubits; and the length of the gate, thirteen cubits; 12 and a border before the lodges, one cubit on this side, and a border, one cubit on that side; and the lodges, six cubits on this side, and six cubits on that side. 13 He measured the gate from the roof of the one lodge to the roof of the other, a breadth of twenty-five cubits; door against door. 14 He made also posts, sixty cubits; and the court reached to the posts, around the gate. 15 From the forefront of the gate at the entrance to the forefront of the inner porch of the gate were fifty cubits. 16 There were closed windows to the lodges, and to their posts within the gate all around, and likewise to the arches; and windows were around inward; and on each post were palm trees.

The Outer Court

17 Then brought he me into the outer court; and behold, there were rooms and a pavement, made for the court all around: thirty rooms were on the pavement. 18 The pavement was by the side of the gates, answerable to the length of the gates, even the lower pavement. 19 Then he measured the breadth from the forefront of the lower gate to the forefront of the inner court outside, one hundred cubits, both on the east and on the north.

The North Gate

20 The gate of the outer court whose prospect is toward the north, he measured its length and its breadth. 21 The lodges of it were three on this side and three on that side; and its posts and its arches were after the measure of the first gate: its length was fifty cubits, and the breadth twenty-five cubits. 22 The windows of it, and its arches, and the palm trees of it, were after the measure of the gate whose prospect is toward the east; and they went up to it by seven steps; and its arches were before them. 23 There was a gate to the inner court over against the other gate, both on the north and on the east; and he measured from gate to gate one hundred cubits.

The South Gate

24 He led me toward the south; and behold, a gate toward the south: and he measured its posts and its arches according to these measures. 25 There were windows in it and in its arches all around, like those windows: the length was fifty cubits, and the breadth twenty-five cubits. 26 There were seven steps to go up to it, and its arches were before them; and it had palm trees, one on this side, and another on that side, on its posts. 27 There was a gate to the inner court toward the south: and he measured from gate to gate toward the south a hundred cubits.

The Gates of the Inner Court

28 Then he brought me to the inner court by the south gate: and he measured the south gate according to these measures; 29 and its lodges, and its posts, and its arches, according to these measures: and there were windows in it and in its arches all around; it was fifty cubits long, and twenty-five cubits broad. 30 There were arches all around, twenty-five cubits long, and five cubits broad. 31 The arches of it were toward the outer court; and palm trees were on its posts: and the ascent to it had eight steps.

32 He brought me into the inner court toward the east: and he measured the gate according to these measures; 33 and its lodges, and its posts, and its arches, according to these measures: and there were windows therein and in its arches all around; it was fifty cubits long, and twenty-five cubits broad. 34 The arches of it were toward the outer court; and palm trees were on its posts, on this side, and on that side: and the ascent to it had eight steps.

35 He brought me to the north gate: and he measured it according to these measures; 36 its lodges, its posts, and its arches: and there were windows therein all around; the length was fifty cubits, and the breadth twenty-five cubits. 37 The posts of it were toward the outer court; and palm trees were on its posts, on this side, and on that side: and the ascent to it had eight steps.

Eight Tables for Sacrifices

38 A room with its door was by the posts at the gates; there they washed the burnt offering. 39 In the porch of the gate were two tables on this side, and two tables on that side, to kill thereon the burnt offering and the sin offering and the trespass offering. 40 On the one side outside, as one goes up to the entry of the gate toward the north, were two tables; and on the other side, which belonged to the porch of the gate, were two tables. 41 Four tables were on this side, and four tables on that side, by the side of the gate; eight tables, whereupon they killed the sacrifices. 42 There were four tables for the burnt offering, of cut stone, a cubit and a half long, and a cubit and a half broad, and one cubit high; whereupon they laid the instruments with which they killed the burnt offering and the sacrifice. 43 The hooks, a handbreadth long, were fastened within all around: and on the tables was the flesh of the offering.

Chambers for Ministry

44 Outside of the inner gate were rooms for the singers in the inner court, which was at the side of the north gate; and their prospect was toward the south; one at the side of the east gate having the prospect toward the north. 45 He said to me, This room, whose prospect is toward the south, is for the priests, the keepers of the duty of the house; 46 and the room whose prospect is toward the north is for the priests, the keepers of the duty of the altar: these are the sons of Zadok, who from among the sons of Levi come near to Yahweh to minister to him.

The Inner Court

47 He measured the court, one hundred cubits long, and a hundred cubits broad, foursquare; and the altar was before the house.

48 Then he brought me to the porch of the house, and measured each post of the porch, five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side: and the breadth of the gate was three cubits on this side, and three cubits on that side. 49 The length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; even by the steps by which they went up to it: and there were pillars by the posts, one on this side, and another on that side.

The Man with a Measuring Rod
(Zechariah 2:1–5)

1 In the twenty-fifth year of our exile, at the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month—in the fourteenth year after Jerusalem had been struck down—on that very day the hand of the LORD was upon me, and He took me there. 2 In visions of God He took me to the land of Israel and set me on a very high mountain, on whose southern slope was a structure that resembled a city.

3 So He took me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze. He was standing in the gateway with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. 4 “Son of man,” he said to me, “look with your eyes, hear with your ears, and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Report to the house of Israel everything you see.”

The East Gate

5 And I saw a wall surrounding the temple area. Now the length of the measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits a (each measuring a cubit and a handbreadth), and he measured the wall to be one rod thick and one rod high.

6 Then he came to the gate facing east and climbed its steps. He measured the threshold of the gate to be one rod deep. b 7 Each gate chamber was one rod long and one rod wide, and there were five cubits c between the gate chambers. The inner threshold of the gate by the portico facing inward was one rod deep. 8 Then he measured the portico of the gateway inside; d 9 it was eight cubits deep, e and its jambs were two cubits thick. f And the portico of the gateway faced the temple.

10 There were three gate chambers on each side of the east gate, each with the same measurements, and the gateposts on either side also had the same measurements. 11 And he measured the width of the gateway entrance to be ten cubits, g and its length was thirteen cubits. h

12 In front of each gate chamber was a wall one cubit high, and the gate chambers were six cubits square. 13 Then he measured the gateway from the roof of one gate chamber to the roof of the opposite one; the distance was twenty-five cubits i from doorway to doorway.

14 Next he measured the gateposts to be sixty cubits high. j The gateway extended around to the gatepost of the courtyard. 15 And the distance from the entrance of the gateway to the far end of its inner portico was fifty cubits. k

16 The gate chambers and their side pillars l had beveled windows all around the inside of the gateway. The porticos also had windows all around on the inside. Each side pillar was decorated with palm trees.

The Outer Court

17 Then he brought me into the outer court, and there were chambers and a pavement laid out all around the court. Thirty chambers faced the pavement, 18 which flanked the gateways and corresponded to the length of the gates; this was the lower pavement.

19 Then he measured the distance from the front of the lower gateway to the outside of the inner court; it was a hundred cubits m on the east side as well as on the north.

The North Gate

20 He also measured the length and width of the gateway of the outer court facing north. 21 Its three gate chambers on each side, its side pillars, and its portico all had the same measurements as the first gate: fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 22 Its windows, portico, and palm trees had the same measurements as those of the gate facing east. Seven steps led up to it, with its portico opposite them.

23 There was a gate to the inner court facing the north gate, just as there was on the east. He measured the distance from gateway to gateway to be a hundred cubits.

The South Gate

24 Then he led me to the south side, and I saw a gateway facing south. He measured its side pillars and portico, and they had the same measurements as the others. 25 Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around, like the other windows. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 26 Seven steps led up to it, and its portico was opposite them; it had palm trees on its side pillars, one on each side.

27 The inner court also had a gate facing south, and he measured the distance from gateway to gateway toward the south to be a hundred cubits.

The Gates of the Inner Court

28 Next he brought me into the inner court through the south gate, and he measured the south gate; it had the same measurements as the others. 29 Its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico had the same measurements as the others. Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around; it was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 30 (The porticoes around the inner court were twenty-five cubits long and five cubits deep. n) 31 Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees. Eight steps led up to it.

32 And he brought me to the inner court on the east side, and he measured the gateway; it had the same measurements as the others. 33 Its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico had the same measurements as the others. Both the gateway and its portico had windows all around. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 34 Its portico faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees on each side. Eight steps led up to it.

35 Then he brought me to the north gate and measured it. It had the same measurements as the others, 36 as did its gate chambers, side pillars, and portico. It also had windows all around. It was fifty cubits long and twenty-five cubits wide. 37 Its portico o faced the outer court, and its side pillars were decorated with palm trees on each side. Eight steps led up to it.

Eight Tables for Sacrifices

38 There was a chamber with a doorway by the portico p in each of the inner gateways. There the burnt offering was to be washed. 39 Inside the portico of the gateway were two tables on each side, on which the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings were to be slaughtered.

40 Outside, as one goes up to the entrance of the north gateway, there were two tables on one side and two more tables on the other side of the gate’s portico. 41 So there were four tables inside the gateway and four outside—eight tables in all—on which the sacrifices were to be slaughtered.

42 There were also four tables of dressed stone for the burnt offering, each a cubit and a half long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit high. q On these were placed the utensils used to slaughter the burnt offerings and the other sacrifices.

43 The double-pronged hooks, r each a handbreadth long, s were fastened all around the inside of the room, and the flesh of the offering was to be placed on the tables.

Chambers for Ministry

44 Outside the inner gate, within the inner court, were two chambers, t one beside the north gate and facing south, and another beside the south gate u and facing north.

45 Then the man said to me: “The chamber that faces south is for the priests who keep charge of the temple, 46 and the chamber that faces north is for the priests who keep charge of the altar. These are the sons of Zadok, the only Levites who may approach the LORD to minister before Him.”

The Inner Court

47 Next he measured the court. It was square, a hundred cubits long and a hundred cubits wide. And the altar was in front of the temple.

48 Then he brought me to the portico of the temple and measured the side pillars of the portico to be five cubits on each side. The width of the gateway was fourteen cubits and its sidewalls were three cubits on either side. v 49 The portico was twenty cubits wide w and twelve cubits deep, x and ten steps led up to it. y There were columns by the side pillars, one on each side.

 

Footnotes:

5 a 6 long cubits , the length of the reed used for measuring, is approximately 10.5 feet or 3.2 meters; similarly in verses 6, 7, and 12. The long cubit of about 21 inches or 53.3 centimeters is the basic unit of length throughout Ezekiel 40 to 48.
6 b Hebrew one reed deep, even one threshold, one reed deep.
7 c 5 (long) cubits  is approximately 8.75 feet or 2.7 meters; also in verses 30 and 48.
8 d Literally the portico of the gateway inside, one rod
9 e 8 (long) cubits  is approximately 14 feet or 4.3 meters.
9 f 2 (long) cubits  is approximately 3.5 feet or 1.1 meters.
11 g 10 (long) cubits  is approximately 17.5 feet or 5.3 meters.
11 h 13 (long) cubits  is approximately 22.75 feet or 6.9 meters.
13 i 25 (long) cubits  is approximately 43.75 feet or 13.3 meters; also in verses 21, 25, 29, 30, 33, and 36.
14 j 60 (long) cubits  is approximately 105 feet or 32 meters.
15 k 50 (long) cubits  is approximately 87.5 feet or 26.7 meters; also in verses 21, 25, 29, 33, and 36.
16 l Or gateposts  or jambs  or projecting walls ; here and throughout Ezekiel 40 and 41.
19 m 100 (long) cubits  is approximately 175 feet or 53.3 meters; also in verses 23, 27, and 47.
30 n The porticoes were approximately 43.75 feet long and 8.75 feet deep (13.3 meters long and 2.7 meters deep).
37 o LXX and Vulgate (see also verses 26, 31, and 34); Hebrew jambs  or dividing wall
38 p Hebrew at the jambs
42 q The tables were approximately 2.6 feet in length and width, and 1.75 feet high (79.2 centimeters in length and width, and 53.3 centimeters high).
43 r Or shelves
43 s A handbreadth  is approximately 2.9 inches or 7.4 centimeters long.
44 t LXX; Hebrew within the inner court were chambers for the singers
44 u LXX; Hebrew the east gateway
48 v LXX; the gateway was approximately 24.5 feet or 7.5 meters wide, with sidewalls approximately 5.25 feet or 1.6 meters wide on either side. Hebrew The width of the gateway was three cubits on either side.
49 w 20 (long) cubits  is approximately 35 feet or 10.7 meters.
49 x LXX; 12 (long) cubits  is approximately 21 feet or 6.4 meters; Hebrew eleven cubits deep ; that is, approximately 19.25 feet or 5.9 meters.
49 y LXX; Hebrew and steps led up to it

The Man with a Measuring Rod

(Zechariah 2:1-5)

1In the twenty and fifth year of our removal, in the beginning of the year, in the tenth of the month, in the fourteenth year after that the city was smitten, in this self-same day hath a hand of Jehovah been upon me, and He bringeth me in thither; 2in visions of God He hath brought me in unto the land of Israel, and causeth me to rest on a very high mountain, and upon it is as the frame of a city on the south. 3And He bringeth me in thither, and lo, a man, his appearance as the appearance of brass, and a thread of flax in his hand, and a measuring-reed, and he is standing at the gate, 4and the man speaketh unto me: 'Son of man, see with thine eyes, And with thine ears hear, And set thy heart to all that I am shewing thee, For, in order to shew it thee, Thou hast been brought in hither, Declare all that thou art seeing to the house of Israel.'

The East Gate

5And lo, a wall on the outside of the house all round about, and in the hand of the man a measuring-reed, six cubits by a cubit and a handbreadth, and he measureth the breadth of the building one reed, and the height one reed. 6And he cometh in unto the gate whose front is eastward, and he goeth up by its steps, and he measureth the threshold of the gate one reed broad, even the one threshold one reed broad, 7and the little chamber one reed long and one reed broad, and between the little chambers five cubits, and the threshold of the gate, from the side of the porch of the gate from within, one reed. 8And he measureth the porch of the gate from within one reed, 9and he measureth the porch of the gate eight cubits, and its posts two cubits, and the porch of the gates from within, 10and the little chambers of the gate eastward, three on this side, and three on that side; one measure is to them three, and one measure is to the posts, on this side and on that side. 11And he measureth the breadth of the opening of the gate ten cubits, the length of the gate thirteen cubits; 12and a border before the little chambers, one cubit, and one cubit is the border on this side, and the little chamber is six cubits on this side, and six cubits on that side. 13And he measureth the gate from the roof of the one little chamber to the roof of another; the breadth twenty and five cubits, opening over-against opening. 14And he maketh the posts of sixty cubits, even unto the post of the court, the gate all round about; 15and by the front of the gate of the entrance, by the front of the porch of the inner gate, fifty cubits; 16and narrow windows are unto the little chambers, and unto their posts at the inside of the gate all round about -- and so to the arches -- and windows all round about are at the inside, and at the post are palm-trees.

The Outer Court

17And he bringeth me in unto the outer court, and lo, chambers and a pavement made for the court all round about -- thirty chambers on the pavement -- 18and the pavement unto the side of the gates over-against the length of the gates is the lower pavement; 19and he measureth the breadth from before the lower gate, to the front of the inner court, on the outside, a hundred cubits, eastward and northward.

The North Gate

20As to the gate of the outer court whose front is northward, he hath measured its length and its breadth; 21and its little chambers, three on this side, and three on that side, and its posts and its arches have been according to the measure of the first gate, fifty cubits its length, and the breadth five and twenty by the cubit; 22and its windows, and its arches, and its palm-trees are according to the measure of the gate whose face is eastward, and by seven steps they go up on it, and its arches are before them. 23And the gate of the inner court is over-against the gate at the north and at the east; and he measureth from gate unto gate, a hundred cubits.

The South Gate

24And he causeth me to go southward, and lo, a gate southward, and he hath measured its posts and its arches according to these measures; 25and windows are to it and to its arches all round about, like these windows, fifty cubits the length, and the breadth five and twenty cubits; 26and seven steps are its ascent, and its arches are before them, and palm-trees are to it, one on this side, and one on that side, at its posts; 27and the gate of the inner court is southward, and he measureth from gate unto gate southward, a hundred cubits.

The Gates of the Inner Court

28And he bringeth me in unto the inner court by the south gate, and he measureth the south gate according to these measures; 29and its little chambers, and its posts, and its arches are according to these measures, and windows are to it and to its arches all round about; fifty cubits the length, and the breadth twenty and five cubits. 30As to the arches all round about, the length is five and twenty cubits, and the breadth five cubits; 31and its arches are unto the outer court, and palm-trees are unto its posts, and eight steps are its ascent.

32And he bringeth me in unto the inner court eastward, and he measureth the gate according to these measures; 33and its little chambers, and its posts, and its arches are according to these measures: and windows are to it and to its arches all round about, the length fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits; 34and its arches are toward the outer court, and palm-trees are toward its posts, on this side and on that side, and eight steps are its ascent.

35And he bringeth me in unto the north gate, and hath measured according to these measures; 36its little chambers, its posts, and its arches; and windows are to it all round about: the length fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits; 37and its posts are to the outer court, and palm-trees are unto its posts, on this side and on that side, and eight steps are its ascent.

Eight Tables for Sacrifices

38And the chamber and its opening is by the posts of the gates, there they purge the burnt-offering. 39And in the porch of the gate are two tables on this side, and two tables on that side, to slaughter on them the burnt-offering, and the sin-offering, and the guilt-offering; 40and at the side without, at the going up to the opening of the north gate, are two tables; and at the other side that is at the porch of the gate, are two tables; 41four tables are on this side, and four tables on that side, at the side of the gate, eight tables on which they slaughter. 42And the four tables for burnt-offering are of hewn stone: the length one cubit and a half, and the breadth one cubit and a half, and the height one cubit: on them they place the instruments with which they slaughter the burnt-offering and the sacrifice. 43And the boundaries are one handbreadth, prepared within all round about: and on the tables is the flesh of the offering.

Rooms for the Priests

44And on the outside of the inner gate are chambers of the singers, in the inner court, that are at the side of the north gate, and their fronts are southward, one at the side of the east gate hath the front northward. 45And he speaketh unto me: 'This chamber, whose front is southward, is for priests keeping charge of the house; 46and the chamber, whose front is northward, is for priests keeping charge of the altar: they are sons of Zadok, who are drawing near of the sons of Levi unto Jehovah, to serve Him.'

The Inner Courtyard

47And he measureth the court: the length a hundred cubits, and the breadth a hundred cubits, square, and the altar is before the house.

48And he bringeth me in unto the porch of the house, and he measureth the post of the porch, five cubits on this side, and five cubits on that side, and the breadth of the gate, three cubits on this side, and three cubits on that side; 49the length of the porch twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; and by the steps whereby they go up unto it: and pillars are at the posts, one on this side, and one on that side.

The F.O.G Commentary:

1What is the meaning of Ezekiel 40?
2Introduction to Ezekiel 40
3Context of Ezekiel 40
4Ancient Key Word Study
5Compare & Contrast
6Ezekiel 40 Unique Insights
7Ezekiel 40 Connections to Yeshua
8Ezekiel 40 Scriptural Echoes
9Ezekiel 40 Devotional
10Did You Know

What is the meaning of Ezekiel 40?

Introduction to Ezekiel 40

Ezekiel 40 marks a pivotal transition in the book of Ezekiel, beginning the prophet’s most extensive and detailed vision of the future Temple. In the twenty-fifth year of exile, fourteen years after Jerusalem’s fall, Ezekiel is transported in a divine vision to Israel where he encounters an angelic being with measuring tools. This remarkable chapter initiates a section (chapters 40-48) that provides an extraordinarily detailed architectural blueprint of a future Temple complex, reflecting both the historic glory of Solomon’s Temple and pointing toward something far greater—a messianic vision of God’s presence dwelling perfectly with His people.

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The chapter’s meticulous architectural specifications serve not merely as construction plans but as a powerful message of hope and restoration to the exiled people of Israel. Every measurement and detail carries spiritual significance, painting a picture of God’s perfect order and the ultimate fulfillment of His covenant promises through the Messiah.

Context of Ezekiel 40

Within the book of Ezekiel, chapter 40 serves as the opening of the final major section, following the prophet’s messages of judgment (chapters 1-32) and restoration (chapters 33-39). This structural placement is significant—after pronouncing judgment on Israel and the surrounding nations, and after promising national restoration, Ezekiel now receives a vision that looks beyond mere political or national restoration to a complete spiritual renewal centered on proper worship of יהוה.

The larger biblical context places this chapter within the prophetic tradition of Temple theology, connecting it to both historical and future temples. It draws upon the imagery of Solomon’s Temple while pointing forward to something greater. This vision comes to Ezekiel while the first Temple lies in ruins, offering hope to the exiles while simultaneously transcending their immediate circumstances. The chapter’s architectural focus reflects similar details found in Exodus 25-31 regarding the Tabernacle and 1 Kings 6-7 concerning Solomon’s Temple, establishing a continuity of sacred space while prophetically gesturing toward its ultimate fulfillment in the Messiah.

The timing of this vision—in the twenty-fifth year of exile—carries special significance as it comes after a period of judgment, suggesting that God’s restorative work often follows seasons of purification and preparation. This pattern echoes throughout Scripture and finds its ultimate expression in Yeshua’s death and resurrection, where judgment and restoration meet perfectly.

Ancient Key Word Study

  • רֹאשׁ הַשָּׁנָה (Rosh Hashanah) – “Beginning of the year” (v. 1): This temporal marker carries significant theological weight, as it connects the vision to the Jewish New Year, a time of spiritual renewal and divine judgment. The term suggests not just chronological timing but a moment of new beginnings in God’s redemptive calendar.
  • מַרְאוֹת אֱלֹהִים (Mar’ot Elohim) – “Visions of God” (v. 2): This phrase appears several times in Ezekiel, indicating not merely supernatural sights but divine revelations that transform the viewer. The plural form suggests multiple aspects or dimensions of the vision, each revealing different facets of God’s glory.
  • קָנֶה הַמִּדָּה (Qaneh HaMiddah) – “Measuring reed” (v. 3): This instrument becomes a symbol of divine standard and evaluation. The root קנה connects to the idea of acquisition or possession, suggesting that what is measured belongs to God and must meet His perfect standards.
  • שַׁעַר (Sha’ar) – “Gate” (v. 6): More than just an entrance, this term in Temple context represents a transition point between the profane and sacred. The detailed measurements of each gate emphasize the organized progression toward God’s presence.
  • חָצֵר (Chatzer) – “Court” (v. 17): This space represents graduated levels of holiness, with the measurements creating concentric zones of increasing sanctity. The root חצר carries the idea of settlement or dwelling, pointing to God’s desire to dwell among His people.
  • אַמָּה (Ammah) – “Cubit” (v. 5): The basic unit of measurement used throughout the chapter. The Hebrew term connects to the word for “mother,” suggesting a foundational or nurturing standard. Each measurement reflects divine precision and purpose.
  • אִישׁ (Ish) – “Man” (v. 3): The figure showing Ezekiel the Temple is described as having an appearance like bronze, reminiscent of the divine glory in Ezekiel 1:27. The term suggests both authority and mediation between God and humanity.
  • תָּא (Ta) – “Chamber” (v. 7): These small rooms or guard chambers along the gateway represent spaces of preparation and transition. The root relates to marking or defining boundaries, emphasizing the importance of proper spiritual preparation.
  • אוּלָם (Ulam) – “Vestibule” (v. 8): This architectural feature serves as a transitional space, pointing to the progressive nature of approaching God’s presence. The term suggests both grandeur and preparation.

Compare & Contrast

  • Verse 1’s precise dating (“twenty-fifth year of exile”) uses the exile as a reference point rather than a royal reign, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over human kingdoms and marking this as a pivotal moment in redemptive history. The Hebrew construction emphasizes the exact timing, suggesting this vision’s crucial role in Israel’s spiritual journey.
  • Verse 3’s description of the bronze-like figure deliberately echoes Ezekiel 1:27, using similar terminology to connect this Temple vision with the initial throne vision. The choice of “bronze” (נְחֹשֶׁת) over other metals suggests both judgment and endurance.
  • Verse 5’s measuring reed is exactly six cubits, using the longer royal cubit. This specific detail emphasizes divine perfection, as six cubits plus a handbreadth creates a measuring standard that transcends human dimensions, pointing to God’s perfect standard.
  • Verse 6’s eastern orientation of the first gate is intentionally highlighted, using terminology that connects to sunrise and renewal. This directional focus carries messianic implications, as many prophecies connect the Messiah’s coming with the east.
  • The repeated phrase “and he measured” (וַיָּמָד) appears throughout the chapter, using a verb that could have been replaced with simpler terms for counting or numbering. This specific verb choice emphasizes divine evaluation and standard-setting.
  • The detailed descriptions of the palm tree decorations (verse 16) use terminology that connects to victory and righteousness, choosing words that evoke both natural beauty and spiritual significance.
  • The symmetrical layout described uses language that emphasizes perfect balance and harmony, with measurements that could have been simplified but are instead given in detail to stress divine precision.
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Ezekiel 40 Unique Insights

The architectural precision of Ezekiel’s Temple vision contains profound symbolic meaning within Jewish mystical tradition. The number of steps, chambers, and measurements often correlate with significant biblical numbers. For instance, the seven steps to the inner court represent completion and divine perfection, while the three chambers on each side of the gates suggest divine unity and perfection.

Early rabbinical commentaries note that the eastern gate’s prominence in the vision connects to the ancient Jewish tradition of the Messiah’s arrival. The Pesikta Rabbati, a collection of ancient Jewish homilies, teaches that the divine presence (Shekinah) departed through the eastern gate and will return the same way. This aligns perfectly with the messianic understanding of Yeshua’s future return to Jerusalem from the east, as prophesied in Matthew 24:27.

The angelic guide with measuring tools bears striking similarities to the “Angel of the Lord” appearances throughout the Tanakh, which many Jewish scholars identified as pre-incarnate manifestations of the Messiah. The figure’s bronze appearance suggests both judgment and glory, reflecting the dual nature of the Messiah’s role as both judge and redeemer.

The chapter’s emphasis on precise measurements reflects the Jewish concept of “tikkun olam” (repairing the world), suggesting that the future Temple represents God’s perfect restoration of creation through the Messiah. Each measurement becomes a statement about God’s attention to detail in His redemptive plan.

Ezekiel 40 Connections to Yeshua

The detailed architectural specifications in Ezekiel 40 find their ultimate fulfillment in Yeshua the Messiah, who declared Himself to be the true Temple (John 2:19-21). The eastern gate’s prominence in the vision prophetically points to His triumphant return, as He will enter Jerusalem from the east (Matthew 24:27).

The progressive nature of the Temple’s layout, with its series of courts leading to increasing levels of holiness, prefigures how Yeshua provides graduated access to God’s presence. Through His sacrificial death, He removed the barrier between God and humanity, fulfilling the Temple’s purpose by becoming our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The measured perfection of Ezekiel’s Temple finds its spiritual reality in the Messiah’s perfect work of redemption.

Ezekiel 40 Scriptural Echoes

The measuring imagery recalls Revelation 11:1-2, where John is given a measuring rod to measure the Temple of God. Both visions emphasize divine evaluation and ownership. The eastern gate’s significance echoes Psalm 24:7-10, which speaks of the “ancient doors” through which the King of Glory will enter.

The detailed measurements parallel the Tabernacle instructions in Exodus 25-31 and Solomon’s Temple in 1 Kings 6-7, establishing a continuity of sacred space while pointing toward its ultimate fulfillment. The vision also connects to Zechariah 6:12-13, which prophesies about the Messiah building the Temple of the Lord.

The progressive holiness pattern finds its New Testament parallel in Paul’s teaching about believers as God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17), where the spiritual reality fulfills the physical shadow. The vision’s promise of God’s dwelling among His people reaches its climax in Revelation 21:3, where God’s presence perfectly dwells with humanity.

Ezekiel 40 Devotional

The meticulous measurements and details of Ezekiel’s Temple vision remind us that God is a God of order and purpose. Just as every dimension was precisely measured, our lives are under His careful evaluation and loving attention. This should inspire both awe at His holiness and confidence in His detailed care for us.

Consider the progressive nature of the Temple’s layout—moving from outer courts to inner sanctuaries. This pattern invites us to examine our own spiritual journey. Are we content to remain in the outer courts of religious activity, or are we pressing deeper into God’s presence? The measured pathways remind us that spiritual growth is intentional and ordered, not haphazard.

The eastern gate’s prominence challenges us to maintain an expectant outlook for the Messiah’s return. Just as the exiles needed this vision of hope, we too need to keep our eyes fixed on the promise of Yeshua’s coming. How does this eternal perspective shape our daily choices and priorities?

Did You Know

  • The vision occurs in 573 BCE, exactly 14 years after Jerusalem’s fall, demonstrating God’s precise timing in revealing hope after judgment.
  • The royal cubit used in the measurements was approximately 20.8 inches (52.8 cm), slightly longer than the standard cubit, suggesting this Temple’s measurements transcend normal human standards.
  • The eastern gate’s detailed description occupies more space than any other single feature, highlighting its messianic significance in Jewish tradition.
  • The number of steps (seven) to the inner court corresponds to the seven days of creation, suggesting this Temple represents a new creation.
  • The palm tree decorations mentioned in the vision were a traditional symbol of victory and righteousness in ancient Near Eastern architecture.
  • The massive size of the Temple complex described would have occupied more space than the entire ancient city of Jerusalem, pointing to its supernatural rather than merely physical significance.
  • The Hebrew word for “measure” (מדד) appears 43 times in this chapter alone, more than in any other chapter of the Bible, emphasizing divine evaluation and standard-setting.
  • Archaeological discoveries have shown that ancient Near Eastern temples often used similar architectural features to those described in Ezekiel 40, but none matched its perfect symmetry and elaborate design.
  • The vision’s timing during Rosh Hashanah (the first day of the seventh month) connects it to themes of divine judgment and new beginnings in Jewish tradition.

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Jean Paul Joseph
Jean Paul Joseph

After a dramatic early morning encounter with King Jesus, I just couldn’t put my Bible down. The F.O.G took a hold of me and this website was born. What is the F.O.G?

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