Ezekiel 43:17

The ledge shall also be square, fourteen cubits long and fourteen cubits wide, with a rim of half a cubit and a gutter of a cubit all around it. The steps of the altar shall face east."

Study Bible

The ledge
The term "ledge" refers to a structural component of the altar described in Ezekiel's vision of the new temple. In Hebrew, the word used is "עֲזָרָה" (azarah), which can denote a border or enclosure. This ledge serves as a practical and symbolic boundary, emphasizing the separation between the sacred and the profane. In the context of worship, it signifies the demarcation of holy space, reminding believers of the sanctity and reverence due to God.

fourteen cubits long and fourteen cubits wide
The dimensions "fourteen cubits long and fourteen cubits wide" indicate a perfect square, symbolizing completeness and perfection in biblical numerology. The number fourteen, being a multiple of seven, often represents divine order and spiritual perfection. This precise measurement underscores the meticulous nature of God's design and the importance of order in worship. It reflects the heavenly pattern that God desires for His earthly dwelling place.

on its four sides
The phrase "on its four sides" suggests universality and completeness. The number four in biblical terms often represents the earth or creation, as seen in the four corners of the earth or the four winds. This indicates that the altar, and by extension, the worship it facilitates, is meant to encompass all of creation, inviting all people to come and worship the one true God.

with a rim of half a cubit
The "rim of half a cubit" serves as a protective boundary around the altar. In Hebrew, the word for rim is "גָּבִיל" (gavil), which can also mean a border or edge. This rim acts as a safeguard, preventing anything unclean from encroaching upon the sacred space. It symbolizes God's protection over His holy place and His people, ensuring that worship remains pure and undefiled.

a gutter of a cubit all around it
The "gutter of a cubit all around it" is a practical feature for drainage, ensuring that the altar remains clean and functional. The Hebrew term "שׁוּק" (shuq) for gutter implies a channel or conduit. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the cleansing power of God, who washes away impurities and sin, allowing for true and sincere worship.

The steps of the altar shall face east
The orientation "shall face east" is significant in biblical symbolism. Eastward orientation often represents the direction of God's glory and the coming of the Messiah. In the context of the temple, facing east aligns with the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and the light of God's presence. It serves as a reminder for worshippers to look towards the source of their salvation and to anticipate the fulfillment of God's promises.

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 Altar
Central to the vision in Ezekiel 43, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship in the new temple.

3. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 symbolizes God's presence and the restoration of Israel.

4. The East
The direction of the steps of the altar, significant in biblical symbolism as the direction from which God's glory returns to the temple.

5. The Vision
This vision of the temple and altar is part of a larger prophetic message of hope and restoration for Israel.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar's dimensions and orientation emphasize the importance of worship and sacrifice in approaching God. It reminds us of the centrality of Christ's sacrifice in our faith.

God's Presence and Restoration
The detailed vision of the temple and altar signifies God's promise to restore His people and dwell among them. This encourages us to seek God's presence in our lives and communities.

Direction and Focus
The eastward orientation of the altar steps signifies looking towards God's glory and future promises. We are called to orient our lives towards God's purposes and His coming kingdom.

Holiness and Worship
The specific measurements and design of the altar highlight the holiness required in worship. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and purity in our worship practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the altar in Ezekiel 43:17 reflect the importance of worship in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 43 connect with the concept of God's presence in the New Testament?

3. How can the eastward orientation of the altar steps inspire us to focus on God's promises in our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the altar in Ezekiel's vision and the role of Christ's sacrifice in the New Testament?

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

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
Describes the altar of burnt offering in the tabernacle, providing a parallel to the altar in Ezekiel's vision.

Revelation 21
The vision of the new Jerusalem, which echoes the themes of restoration and God's presence found in Ezekiel's temple vision.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its limitations, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, which can be related to the symbolic nature of Ezekiel's temple.