Ezekiel 42:6

For they were arranged in three stories, and unlike the courts, they had no pillars. So the upper chambers were set back further than the lower and middle floors.

Study Bible

For the chambers on the outer court
The term "chambers" refers to rooms or compartments that were part of the temple complex. In Hebrew, the word used is "לשכות" (lishkot), which indicates storage or living spaces. These chambers were likely used by priests for various temple-related activities, including storage of sacred items and possibly for rest. The "outer court" signifies the area accessible to the general public, contrasting with the inner court reserved for priests. This distinction highlights the separation between the holy and the common, a recurring theme in the temple's design, emphasizing the holiness of God and the need for reverence.

were three accounts high
The architectural detail of "three accounts high" suggests a significant structure, indicating the importance and grandeur of the temple complex. The number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in biblical numerology. This could imply that the design was divinely inspired, reflecting God's perfect order. The multi-story design also maximizes space, showing practical wisdom in accommodating the needs of the temple service.

and had no pillars like those of the courts
The absence of "pillars" in these chambers is noteworthy. Pillars in ancient architecture often symbolized strength and support. Their absence here might suggest a reliance on other structural supports, possibly indicating a unique architectural design. In a spiritual sense, this could symbolize that the support and strength of the temple come from God Himself, rather than human constructs, aligning with the biblical theme of divine provision and support.

so the upper chambers were set back more than the lower and middle floors
The phrase "set back more" indicates a tiered or stepped design, where each successive floor is recessed further than the one below. This architectural feature could serve practical purposes, such as allowing light and air to reach each level, or it might have symbolic significance, representing a progression towards holiness or a closer approach to God. The design reflects careful planning and intentionality, mirroring the order and purpose found in God's creation and His plans for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 is a prophetic vision of a future temple, symbolizing God's presence and holiness among His people.

3. The Upper Chambers
These are part of the temple's structure described in Ezekiel's vision. They are significant in their architectural design, lacking pillars and being set back from the lower floors.

Teaching Points

God's Detailed Plan
The intricate details of the temple's design reflect God's attention to detail and His specific plans for His people. We can trust that God has a detailed plan for our lives.

Symbolism of Structure
The absence of pillars in the upper chambers may symbolize reliance on God's strength rather than human support. In our lives, we should depend on God's strength rather than our own.

Progressive Revelation
The three accounts of the chambers can symbolize the progressive revelation of God's plan throughout history, culminating in Christ. We should seek to understand God's unfolding plan in our lives.

Holiness and Separation
The set-back design of the upper chambers may indicate a separation for holiness. We are called to live lives set apart for God, reflecting His holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the architectural design of the temple in Ezekiel 42:6 reflect God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can the absence of pillars in the upper chambers teach us about relying on God's strength in our daily lives?

3. How does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel connect with the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21, and what does this mean for our understanding of God's eternal presence?

4. What can we learn from the progressive revelation of God's plan as seen in the three accounts of the chambers, and how can this understanding impact our spiritual growth?

5. How can we apply the concept of holiness and separation, as symbolized by the set-back design of the upper chambers, to our personal walk with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 6
Describes Solomon's temple, providing a historical context for temple architecture and the significance of the temple as a dwelling place for God's presence.

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

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its limitations, pointing to the greater heavenly reality that Ezekiel's temple foreshadows.