Ezekiel 40:38

There was a chamber with a doorway by the portico in each of the inner gateways. There the burnt offering was to be washed.

Study Bible

There was a chamber
The Hebrew word for "chamber" is "lishkah," which refers to a room or a space designated for a specific purpose. In the context of the temple, chambers were often used for storage or specific ritual functions. This particular chamber's presence highlights the meticulous organization and sacred purpose of the temple complex. It signifies a place set apart for holy activities, emphasizing the order and sanctity that God desires in worship.

with a doorway
The term "doorway" in Hebrew is "petach," indicating an entrance or opening. This doorway serves as a transition point, symbolizing access to a sacred space. In the spiritual sense, doorways often represent opportunities or transitions into deeper experiences with God. The presence of a doorway here underscores the accessibility of God's presence and the invitation to enter into His holy service.

by the portico of the gate
The "portico" or "ulam" in Hebrew refers to a porch or a covered entrance. The portico of the gate suggests a place of transition and preparation before entering the more sacred areas of the temple. Historically, porticos were common in ancient Near Eastern architecture, serving as places of gathering or waiting. Spiritually, this can be seen as a place of reflection and readiness, preparing one's heart before approaching God.

where the burnt offerings
The phrase "burnt offerings" translates from the Hebrew "olah," meaning "that which goes up" or "ascent," referring to the smoke rising to God. Burnt offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement, dedication, and the complete surrender of the worshiper to God. This sacrificial act points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly for the atonement of humanity's sins.

were to be washed
The act of washing, from the Hebrew "rachats," signifies purification and cleansing. In the temple context, washing the offerings was a necessary step to ensure that what was presented to God was pure and acceptable. This ritual cleansing reflects the broader biblical theme of purification, reminding believers of the need for spiritual cleanliness and the transformative power of God's grace. It points to the New Testament teaching of being washed by the Word and the Spirit, preparing believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of a new temple in chapters 40-48.

2. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40 is a prophetic and symbolic representation of God's presence and future restoration for Israel.

3. Inner Gateways
These are part of the temple's structure, symbolizing access to the sacred areas where worship and sacrifices occur.

4. Chamber
A specific room mentioned in the vision, used for preparing burnt offerings, indicating the importance of ritual purity and preparation in worship.

5. Burnt Offerings
Sacrifices made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication, which were washed in the chamber to ensure ceremonial cleanliness.

Teaching Points

Ritual Purity and Worship
The washing of burnt offerings highlights the importance of purity in worship. As believers, we are called to approach God with clean hearts and lives, reflecting His holiness.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's atonement and our response in worship and gratitude.

God's Presence and Restoration
The vision of the temple signifies God's desire to dwell among His people and restore them. This encourages us to seek His presence and trust in His promises of restoration.

Preparation for Worship
Just as the offerings were prepared, we should prepare our hearts and minds for worship, ensuring that we are focused and sincere in our devotion to God.

Spiritual Sacrifices
As New Testament believers, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, service, and obedience, reflecting our dedication to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of ritual purity in the Old Testament sacrificial system apply to our lives as Christians today?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40 encourage us to seek God's presence and anticipate His future restoration?

3. How can we prepare our hearts and minds for worship in a way that honors God, similar to the preparation of burnt offerings?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer spiritual sacrifices in our daily lives, as described in 1 Peter 2:5?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of the sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1
Describes the procedures for burnt offerings, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity and the role of sacrifices in atonement and worship.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the old sacrificial system and how it points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfills and surpasses these rituals.

1 Peter 2:5
Believers are described as a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices, connecting the temple's sacrificial system to the New Testament concept of spiritual worship.