Ezekiel 43:16

The altar hearth shall be square at its four corners, twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide.

Study Bible

The altar hearth
The term "altar hearth" refers to the top part of the altar where sacrifices were made. In Hebrew, this is often referred to as "Ariel," which can mean "lion of God" or "hearth of God." The altar hearth is central to the sacrificial system, symbolizing the place where offerings are consumed by fire, representing God's acceptance of the sacrifice. In a broader spiritual sense, it signifies the heart of worship, where believers offer themselves as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1).

shall be square
The square shape of the altar hearth is significant in biblical symbolism. A square, with its equal sides, represents stability, balance, and perfection. In the context of the altar, it signifies the completeness and perfection of God's design for worship. The square shape also reflects the order and precision that God desires in His worship, reminding believers of the need for integrity and righteousness in their approach to God.

twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide
The dimensions of the altar hearth, being twelve cubits by twelve cubits, are rich in symbolic meaning. The number twelve is often associated with God's people, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. It represents God's covenant relationship with His people and His divine governance. The use of twelve here emphasizes the altar's role in facilitating the relationship between God and His people, serving as a place of atonement and reconciliation. The equal length and width further underscore the idea of completeness and divine order in the worship practices prescribed by God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book bearing his name. He receives visions from God, including the vision of the new temple in chapters 40-48.

2. The Altar
Central to the vision of the new temple, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship, symbolizing the restoration of proper worship practices.

3. The Temple Vision
This vision, given to Ezekiel, outlines the dimensions and design of a future temple, symbolizing God's presence and the restoration of Israel.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Altar
The square shape of the altar hearth signifies perfection and completeness, reflecting God's perfect nature and His desire for orderly worship.

Restoration and Hope
The detailed vision of the temple and altar serves as a message of hope and restoration for Israel, reminding believers of God's faithfulness to restore and renew.

Worship and Sacrifice
The altar's central role in the temple highlights the importance of worship and sacrifice in the believer's life, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

God's Presence
The temple vision emphasizes God's desire to dwell among His people, encouraging believers to seek His presence in their daily lives.

Order and Precision in Worship
The specific dimensions of the altar remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect, adhering to His instructions for worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the square shape of the altar hearth in Ezekiel 43:16 reflect God's nature and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the vision of the new temple in Ezekiel provide hope and encouragement for believers today?

3. How does the role of the altar in Ezekiel's vision connect to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus as described in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from the detailed instructions for the altar about the importance of order and precision in our worship practices?

5. How does the vision of God's presence in the temple challenge us to seek His presence in our own lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
The instructions for the construction of the altar in the Tabernacle provide a foundation for understanding the significance of the altar in Ezekiel's vision.

Revelation 21
The description of the New Jerusalem, with its perfect dimensions, echoes the symmetry and order found in Ezekiel's temple vision, symbolizing God's perfect plan and presence.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of the earthly sanctuary and its fulfillment in Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus.