Ezekiel 40:48

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.

Study Bible

Then he brought me
This phrase indicates a continuation of the visionary journey that Ezekiel is experiencing. The "he" refers to the angelic guide who is leading Ezekiel through the vision of the new temple. This guidance symbolizes divine revelation and instruction, emphasizing that understanding and insight into God's plans are often mediated through His messengers. The Hebrew root for "brought" (בּוֹא, bo) suggests a leading or bringing into a deeper understanding or experience, highlighting the importance of divine guidance in spiritual matters.

to the portico of the temple
The "portico" (אוּלָם, ulam) refers to a large, open entrance hall or porch leading into the temple. Architecturally, it serves as a transitional space between the outer court and the inner sanctum, symbolizing the movement from the secular to the sacred. Historically, porticos were common in ancient Near Eastern architecture, serving both functional and ceremonial purposes. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, the portico represents an invitation to approach the divine presence, a call to enter into deeper communion with God.

and measured the jambs of the portico
The act of measuring (מָדַד, madad) is significant throughout Ezekiel's temple vision. It conveys the idea of order, precision, and divine intentionality. The "jambs" (אֵיל, ayil) are the side posts or supports of the portico, symbolizing strength and stability. This measurement underscores the meticulous care and exactness with which God designs His dwelling place, reflecting His holiness and the order of His creation.

they were five cubits on each side
The specific measurement of "five cubits" (אַמָּה, ammah) for the jambs indicates a standard of divine proportion. In biblical numerology, the number five often represents grace and God's goodness. The use of cubits, an ancient unit of measure based on the length of the forearm, connects the vision to the tangible, physical world, reminding us that God's plans are both spiritual and practical.

The width of the gateway was fourteen cubits
The "gateway" (שַׁעַר, sha'ar) serves as the entrance to the temple, symbolizing access to God's presence. The measurement of "fourteen cubits" suggests completeness and perfection, as fourteen is a multiple of seven, a number often associated with divine perfection and completion in the Bible. This width indicates the ample provision God makes for His people to enter into His presence.

and its sidewalls were three cubits on either side
The "sidewalls" (קָצִין, qatsin) provide additional structural support to the gateway, ensuring its stability. The measurement of "three cubits" may symbolize divine completeness and the triune nature of God, as the number three often represents completeness and divine wholeness in Scripture. This detail highlights the secure and unshakeable nature of God's dwelling place, offering assurance to those who seek refuge in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of the vision of the new temple.

2. The Portico of the Temple
This is the entrance area of the temple, symbolizing the threshold between the secular and the sacred.

3. The Measuring Angel
An angelic figure who guides Ezekiel through the vision, measuring the temple's dimensions.

4. The Temple
Represents God's dwelling place among His people, a central theme in Ezekiel's vision.

5. The Jambs and Gateway
Architectural elements of the temple, symbolizing strength and the entrance to divine presence.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Measurement
The precise measurements emphasize God's order and perfection. In our lives, we should strive for spiritual order and alignment with God's standards.

The Role of the Temple
The temple serves as a place of worship and communion with God. Today, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, calling us to live holy lives.

Threshold of Transformation
The portico represents a transition from the ordinary to the sacred. We are invited to step into deeper fellowship with God, leaving behind worldly distractions.

Divine Presence
The temple signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. We should cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives.

Architectural Strength
The strong jambs and gateway remind us of the strength and security found in God's presence. We can trust in His protection and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40:48 reflect God's desire for order and holiness in our lives?

2. In what ways can we view our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, and how should this influence our daily actions?

3. What does the portico symbolize in terms of our spiritual journey, and how can we apply this symbolism to our relationship with God?

4. How do the architectural elements of the temple, such as the jambs and gateway, inspire confidence in God's strength and protection?

5. How can we draw parallels between Ezekiel's vision of the temple and the New Jerusalem described in Revelation, and what hope does this offer for our future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6
Describes Solomon's temple, providing a historical context for the temple's design and significance.

Revelation 21
Offers a vision of the New Jerusalem, drawing parallels to Ezekiel's vision of a restored temple.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its heavenly counterpart, connecting to the idea of the temple as a shadow of heavenly realities.