Ezekiel 43:13

These are the measurements of the altar in long cubits (a cubit and a handbreadth): Its gutter shall be a cubit deep and a cubit wide, with a rim of one span around its edge. And this is the height of the altar:

Study Bible

These are the measurements of the altar
The phrase introduces a detailed description of the altar's dimensions, emphasizing the importance of precision in worship. In Hebrew, "measurements" (מִדּוֹת, middot) signifies the divine order and structure God desires. The altar, central to sacrificial worship, symbolizes the place where humanity meets the divine. Historically, altars were pivotal in Israelite worship, serving as a tangible connection to God’s covenant and presence.

in cubits, the cubit being a cubit and a handbreadth
The "cubit" (אַמָּה, ammah) was an ancient unit of length, approximately 18 inches, based on the length of the forearm. The addition of "a handbreadth" (טֶפַח, tephach) suggests a slightly longer measurement, indicating precision and care in construction. This detail underscores the sacredness of the altar, as every aspect of its design is divinely ordained. The use of specific measurements reflects God’s meticulous nature and the importance of obedience in worship practices.

The base shall be a cubit high and a cubit wide
The "base" (חֵיק, cheq) serves as the foundation of the altar, symbolizing stability and strength. Its dimensions, "a cubit high and a cubit wide," highlight the altar's solid and enduring nature. In a spiritual sense, the base represents the foundational truths of faith upon which believers build their lives. The altar's base being square signifies completeness and perfection, reflecting God’s unchanging nature.

with a rim of one span around the edge
The "rim" (גָּבוּל, gavul) encircling the altar serves both a practical and symbolic purpose. Practically, it prevents offerings from falling off, while symbolically, it represents a boundary of holiness. The "span" (זֶרֶת, zeret), approximately half a cubit, indicates a protective measure, ensuring the sanctity of the offerings. This detail reminds believers of the need to guard their spiritual lives and maintain purity in worship.

And this is the height of the altar
The "height" (קוֹמָה, qomah) of the altar signifies its prominence and the elevation of worship. The altar's height draws the eyes upward, symbolizing the lifting of the heart and spirit towards God. In a broader sense, it represents the exaltation of God above all earthly concerns. The altar's height serves as a reminder of the transcendence of God and the call for believers to rise above worldly distractions in their devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one receiving the vision of the new temple.

2. The Altar
Central to the vision, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship in the new temple.

3. The Temple Vision
This vision, given to Ezekiel, outlines the future temple's structure and serves as a symbol of God's presence and restoration.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Measurements
The detailed measurements emphasize God's order and precision in worship. Just as the altar's dimensions were specific, our worship should be intentional and reverent.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar symbolizes atonement and reconciliation with God. In the New Testament, Christ is our ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the altar's purpose.

Restoration and Hope
The vision of the altar in the new temple represents hope and restoration for God's people. It reminds us of God's promise to restore and dwell with us.

Holiness in Worship
The altar's design reflects the holiness required in approaching God. Our lives should reflect this holiness as we offer ourselves as living sacrifices.

God's Presence
The altar is central to the temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. We are called to live with the awareness of God's presence in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the specific measurements of the altar in Ezekiel 43:13 reflect God's character and expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the altar in Ezekiel's vision connect to the concept of sacrifice in the New Testament?

3. How can the vision of the new temple and altar inspire hope and a sense of restoration in our personal spiritual lives?

4. What does the altar's centrality in the temple teach us about the importance of worship in our relationship with God?

5. How can we apply the principles of holiness and reverence, as seen in the altar's design, to our modern-day worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
Describes the altar of burnt offering in the tabernacle, providing a historical context for the altar's significance in worship.

Hebrews 13
Discusses the altar in the context of the new covenant, emphasizing the spiritual sacrifices of believers.

Revelation 21
Describes the new Jerusalem, drawing parallels to the vision of restoration and God's dwelling with His people.