Ezekiel 41:2

The width of the entrance was ten cubits, and the sides of the entrance were five cubits on each side. He also measured the length of the outer sanctuary to be forty cubits, and the width to be twenty cubits.

Study Bible

The width of the entrance was ten cubits
The "entrance" here refers to the doorway leading into the inner sanctuary of the temple, a sacred space that symbolizes access to the divine presence. The "ten cubits" measurement, approximately 15 feet, signifies completeness and divine order in biblical numerology. The number ten often represents the law, as seen in the Ten Commandments, and here it may symbolize the perfect and complete access to God provided through His ordained structure.

the sides of the entrance were five cubits on each side
The "sides of the entrance" being "five cubits" each, or about 7.5 feet, suggests balance and grace. The number five in Scripture often symbolizes God's grace, goodness, and favor toward humanity. This measurement could imply that the entrance to God's presence is framed by His grace, providing a balanced and stable approach to the divine.

And he measured the length of the inner sanctuary at forty cubits
The "inner sanctuary" is the most sacred part of the temple, often referred to as the Holy of Holies. The "forty cubits" length, approximately 60 feet, is significant as the number forty in the Bible often represents periods of testing, trial, and preparation (e.g., the Israelites' 40 years in the wilderness, Jesus' 40 days of fasting). This measurement may symbolize the preparation and sanctification required to enter into the presence of God.

and the width at twenty cubits
The "width" of "twenty cubits," or about 30 feet, can be seen as a symbol of redemption and divine intervention. The number twenty in Scripture sometimes represents a complete or perfect waiting period, as seen in Jacob's 20 years of waiting to be freed from Laban. This dimension of the inner sanctuary may reflect the completeness of God's redemptive plan and the fullness of His presence available to those who seek Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of the new temple.

2. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 represents a future idealized temple, symbolizing God's presence and holiness.

3. The Inner Sanctuary
Also known as the Holy of Holies, this is the most sacred part of the temple, where God's presence dwells.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Measurements
The precise measurements in Ezekiel's vision emphasize God's order and perfection. In our lives, we should strive for orderliness and intentionality in our spiritual practices.

God's Holiness and Presence
The inner sanctuary symbolizes God's holiness. As believers, we are called to be holy and to recognize God's presence in our lives, setting apart time and space for worship.

The Fulfillment in Christ
The temple foreshadows Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. We should focus on our relationship with Christ as the center of our spiritual life.

The Role of the Church
The temple's design can be seen as a metaphor for the church, the body of Christ, where believers gather to experience God's presence. We should actively participate in and contribute to our local church community.

Hope for the Future
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration and renewal. In times of difficulty, we can hold onto the promise of God's future restoration and presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the specific measurements of the temple entrance and inner sanctuary reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 41 point to the person and work of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the concept of holiness, as represented by the inner sanctuary, to our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the temple in Ezekiel's vision and the role of the church today?

5. How does the hope of future restoration in Ezekiel's vision encourage us in our current spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its significance, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, drawing parallels to the temple as a symbol of God's eternal presence with His people.