Ezekiel 40:47

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.

Study Bible

Then he measured the court
The act of measuring in biblical terms often signifies ownership, order, and divine intention. In Hebrew, the word for "measured" is "מָדַד" (madad), which implies a careful and deliberate action. This measurement indicates God's precise plan and purpose for His dwelling place. The court represents a space set apart for worship and signifies the boundary between the sacred and the profane. It is a reminder of God's holiness and the order He establishes in His creation.

it was square
The square shape of the court is significant in biblical symbolism, representing perfection, stability, and completeness. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, a square was often used to denote sacred spaces. The Hebrew word for "square" is "רָבוּעַ" (ravu'a), which conveys the idea of balance and symmetry. This design reflects God's perfect nature and His desire for harmony in His relationship with His people.

a hundred cubits long and a hundred cubits wide
The use of "cubits" as a measurement ties back to ancient standards, where a cubit was approximately 18 inches, based on the length of a man's forearm. The number "hundred" in biblical numerology often symbolizes completeness or fullness. Thus, the dimensions of the court emphasize the completeness of God's plan and the fullness of His provision for worship. It also reflects the grandeur and majesty of the divine presence that the temple represents.

And the altar
The altar is central to the worship practices of Israel, serving as the place where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. The Hebrew word for "altar" is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which comes from a root meaning "to sacrifice." This highlights the altar's role as a place of offering and communion with God. It is a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the sacrificial system through His death and resurrection.

was in front of the temple
The positioning of the altar "in front of the temple" signifies its importance in the worship of God. It serves as a threshold to the divine presence, reminding worshippers that access to God requires atonement and purification. The temple, as the dwelling place of God, is the ultimate destination for worship, and the altar is the means by which believers approach Him. This arrangement underscores the necessity of sacrifice and the grace of God in allowing His people to draw near to Him.

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.

2. The Court
The outer court of the temple, described as a perfect square, symbolizing completeness and divine order.

3. The Altar
Central to the temple's worship, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and atonement, crucial for the Israelites' relationship with God.

4. The Temple
The envisioned temple in Ezekiel's vision, symbolizing God's presence among His people and a future hope for restoration.

5. The Measuring Angel
A divine messenger who guides Ezekiel through the vision, emphasizing precision and divine order in the temple's design.

Teaching Points

Divine Order and Precision
The detailed measurements of the temple court reflect God's nature of order and precision. Believers are called to live lives that reflect God's order, pursuing holiness and integrity.

Centrality of Worship
The placement of the altar in front of the temple underscores the centrality of worship and sacrifice in the believer's life. Worship should be at the heart of our daily walk with God.

Hope and Restoration
Ezekiel's vision of the temple offers hope for restoration and renewal. In times of personal exile or spiritual dryness, believers can find hope in God's promise of restoration.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents atonement and reconciliation with God. In Christ, believers have a perfect sacrifice, and they are called to live lives of gratitude and service in response to His grace.

Community and Worship
The temple court was a place for communal worship. Believers are encouraged to engage in corporate worship and fellowship, strengthening their faith and community bonds.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precise measurement of the temple court in Ezekiel 40:47 reflect God's character, and how can this understanding influence our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the altar's central position in the temple layout inform our understanding of the importance of worship and sacrifice in our relationship with God?

3. How can Ezekiel's vision of the temple serve as a source of hope and encouragement during times of personal or communal exile?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the temple described in Ezekiel and the New Jerusalem in Revelation, and how do these visions shape our understanding of God's ultimate plan for His people?

5. How can the concept of community worship, as seen in the temple court, be applied to strengthen our local church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
The instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle's altar, highlighting the continuity of worship practices and the importance of the altar in Israelite worship.

Revelation 21
The description of the New Jerusalem, which also features precise measurements and a square layout, symbolizing God's perfect order and eternal presence.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its limitations, pointing to Christ as the ultimate high priest and the fulfillment of the sacrificial system.