Ezekiel 40:7

Each gate chamber was one rod long and one rod wide, and there were five cubits between the gate chambers. The inner threshold of the gate by the portico facing inward was one rod deep.

Study Bible

Each gate chamber
The term "gate chamber" refers to the rooms or compartments within the gate structure of the temple. In ancient Near Eastern architecture, gates were not merely entry points but complex structures often containing multiple rooms for guards or officials. The Hebrew word used here, "לשכה" (lishkah), suggests a chamber or room, indicating the organized and purposeful design of the temple. This reflects God's orderliness and the importance of security and sanctity in His dwelling place.

One rod long and one rod wide
The "rod" is a unit of measurement used in ancient times, approximately equivalent to six cubits or about 10 feet. The use of precise measurements underscores the meticulous nature of God's instructions for His temple, reminiscent of the detailed plans given to Moses for the Tabernacle. This precision signifies the importance of obedience and reverence in worship, as every detail of God's house is significant.

The walls between the gate chambers
Walls in ancient architecture were not only structural but also symbolic of separation and protection. The Hebrew word "קיר" (qir) for wall implies a barrier that defines sacred space. In the context of the temple, these walls delineate the holy from the common, emphasizing the need for purity and holiness in approaching God.

Five cubits thick
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches. The thickness of the walls, being five cubits, indicates strength and fortification. This substantial thickness symbolizes the strength and impenetrability of God's protection over His people and His holy place. It serves as a reminder of the security found in God's presence.

The threshold of the gate
The "threshold" is the entry point, a place of transition from the outside world into the sacred space of the temple. The Hebrew word "מפתן" (miftan) suggests a foundational element, a point of crossing into holiness. This threshold represents the invitation to enter into God's presence, highlighting the grace and accessibility of God to those who seek Him.

By the portico of the gate facing inward
The "portico" or porch is an architectural feature that provides a transitional space before entering the main structure. The Hebrew "אולם" (ulam) indicates a grand entrance, suggesting majesty and reverence. Facing inward, it directs the focus towards the heart of the temple, symbolizing the inward journey of the believer towards deeper communion with God.

One rod deep
The depth of the threshold being "one rod" signifies a substantial and deliberate entryway. This depth indicates the seriousness and commitment required to enter God's presence. It serves as a metaphor for the depth of relationship and devotion expected of those who approach the divine, encouraging believers to prepare their hearts as they come before the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of a new temple in chapters 40-48.

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

3. Gate Chambers
These are part of the temple's structure, indicating the precision and orderliness of God's design.

4. Rod and Cubit
Ancient units of measurement used to describe the dimensions of the temple, emphasizing the exactness and divine order.

5. Threshold and Vestibule
Architectural elements of the temple, symbolizing the transition from the outside world into the sacred space of God's presence.

Teaching Points

God's Precision and Order
God's instructions for the temple's measurements reflect His nature of precision and order. This teaches us the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect for His holiness.

Symbolism of the Temple
The temple symbolizes God's presence among His people. As believers, we are called to be living temples, reflecting God's holiness in our lives.

Restoration and Hope
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration. In times of personal or communal exile, we can trust in God's promise to restore and renew.

Transition to Holiness
The threshold and vestibule signify the transition into God's holy presence. We should prepare our hearts and minds as we enter into worship and communion with God.

Measurement and Accountability
The specific measurements remind us of the importance of accountability in our spiritual lives. We are called to measure our actions and thoughts against God's standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the temple in Ezekiel 40:7 reflect God's character, and how can this understanding influence our worship practices today?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel connect to the concept of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament?

3. How can the symbolism of the threshold and vestibule in the temple inspire us to prepare ourselves for entering God's presence in prayer and worship?

4. What parallels can you draw between the restoration promised in Ezekiel's vision and the hope offered through Christ's redemptive work?

5. How can we apply the principle of divine order and precision in our daily lives, particularly in our spiritual disciplines and community interactions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction parallel the detailed vision of the temple, highlighting God's desire for order and holiness in worship.

1 Kings 6-7
Solomon's temple construction shares similarities with Ezekiel's vision, pointing to the continuity of God's dwelling place among His people.

Revelation 21
The New Jerusalem's description echoes the themes of divine presence and perfect order found in Ezekiel's temple vision.