Ezekiel 46:9

When the people of the land come before the LORD at the appointed feasts, whoever enters by the north gate to worship must go out by the south gate, and whoever enters by the south gate must go out by the north gate. No one is to return through the gate by which he entered, but each must go out by the opposite gate.

Study Bible

When the people of the land
This phrase refers to the Israelites, the covenant people of God, who are called to gather for worship. The Hebrew term for "people" (עַם, 'am) emphasizes a collective identity, underscoring the communal aspect of worship. Historically, this reflects the unity and shared purpose of the Israelites as they come together to honor God during significant religious observances.

come before the LORD
The act of coming before the LORD signifies entering into His presence, a sacred and reverent act. The Hebrew root for "come" (בּוֹא, bo) implies movement towards a divine encounter. This phrase highlights the privilege and responsibility of approaching God, emphasizing the holiness and reverence required in worship.

at the appointed feasts
The "appointed feasts" (מוֹעֵד, mo'ed) are divinely ordained times for worship and celebration, such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. These feasts are not merely cultural events but are deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as reminders of His faithfulness and provision.

whoever enters by the north gate
The instruction regarding the north gate reflects the orderly and intentional nature of worship. The north gate, part of the temple's structure, symbolizes a specific point of entry, suggesting that worship is not haphazard but follows a divinely established order.

to worship
Worship (שָׁחָה, shachah) in this context involves bowing down or prostrating oneself, indicating deep reverence and submission to God. This act of worship is central to the relationship between God and His people, reflecting an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and majesty.

must go out by the south gate
This directive ensures that worshipers do not leave the same way they entered, symbolizing transformation and renewal. The act of exiting through a different gate signifies a change that occurs through genuine worship, as one encounters God and is spiritually renewed.

and whoever enters by the south gate
Similar to the instruction for those entering by the north gate, this emphasizes the importance of following God's prescribed order in worship. It reinforces the idea that worship is a journey, with a beginning and an end, marked by obedience and reverence.

must go out by the north gate
This mirrors the earlier instruction, underscoring the theme of transformation. The requirement to exit through a different gate serves as a metaphor for the change that worship should bring about in the life of the believer.

No one may return through the gate by which he entered
This prohibition against returning through the same gate highlights the concept of progress and forward movement in the spiritual life. It suggests that worship should lead to growth and change, preventing stagnation and encouraging continual spiritual development.

but must go out by the opposite gate
The phrase "opposite gate" reinforces the idea of contrast and change. It symbolizes the new direction and perspective gained through worship, as believers are called to leave differently than they came, transformed by their encounter with the divine.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The People of the Land
Refers to the Israelites who are coming to worship the LORD during the appointed feasts.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel, who is the focus of worship and the one who establishes these commands.

3. The Appointed Feasts
Specific times set by God for the Israelites to gather and worship, such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles.

4. The North Gate and South Gate
Entrances to the temple area, symbolizing the orderly and reverent approach to worship.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Orderly Worship
The instruction to enter and exit through different gates emphasizes the importance of order and reverence in worship. Worship should be approached with a heart prepared to meet God.

Symbolism of Change
Entering and exiting through different gates can symbolize a transformation that occurs when one encounters God. Worship should lead to change and growth in our spiritual lives.

Community Aspect
The gathering of people at the appointed feasts highlights the importance of community in worship. Believers are encouraged to gather together, supporting and uplifting one another in faith.

Intentionality in Worship
The specific instructions for entering and exiting the temple area remind us to be intentional in our worship practices, focusing on God and His holiness.

Reflecting on God's Presence
The temple as a place of God's presence calls us to reflect on how we carry His presence in our daily lives, ensuring that our actions and attitudes align with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the instruction to enter and exit through different gates teach us about the nature of worship?

2. How can the symbolism of entering and exiting through different gates apply to our personal spiritual growth?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is orderly and reverent, as described in Ezekiel 46:9?

4. How does the communal aspect of worship in Ezekiel 46:9 relate to the New Testament teachings on gathering as believers?

5. Reflect on a time when worship led to a significant change in your life. How can you continue to seek transformation through worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23 and Leviticus 23
These chapters outline the appointed feasts and the importance of gathering for worship, emphasizing the communal and sacred nature of these events.

Psalm 100
Encourages entering God's presence with thanksgiving and joy, aligning with the spirit of worship described in Ezekiel.

John 4:24
Jesus speaks about worshiping in spirit and truth, which complements the physical act of worship described in Ezekiel.

Hebrews 10:25
Encourages believers not to forsake assembling together, which is a New Testament parallel to the communal worship in Ezekiel.

Revelation 21:22-27
Describes the New Jerusalem where God's presence is fully realized, echoing the temple worship in Ezekiel.