The Courts for Boiling and Baking refer to specific areas within the temple complex in Jerusalem, designated for the preparation of offerings and sacrifices. These courts are mentioned in the context of the temple's design and function, particularly in the prophetic vision of Ezekiel, which provides a detailed description of a future temple.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the Courts for Boiling and Baking is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 46:19-24, the prophet describes the temple's layout, including chambers and courts designated for the priests' activities related to the offerings:

"Then he brought me through the entrance, which was at the side of the gate, into the sacred chambers facing north, which belonged to the priests. And there, at the far west end, I saw a place. He said to me, 'This is the place where the priests will boil the guilt offering and the sin offering and bake the grain offering, so they do not bring them into the outer court and transmit holiness to the people.' Then he brought me into the outer court and led me past its four corners, and I saw that in each corner of the outer court there was another court. In the four corners of the outer court there were enclosed courts, each forty cubits long and thirty cubits wide. Each of the four corner courts was the same size. Around the inside of each of the four courts was a row of masonry, with places for boiling set all around the rows. Then he said to me, 'These are the kitchens where those who minister at the temple will cook the sacrifices of the people.'" (Ezekiel 46:19-24)

Function and Significance:

The Courts for Boiling and Baking served a practical and ceremonial purpose within the temple. They were essential for the preparation of various offerings, including the guilt offering, sin offering, and grain offering. These offerings were integral to the sacrificial system established by God for the atonement of sin and the expression of devotion and thanksgiving.

The separation of these courts from the outer court was significant in maintaining the sanctity and holiness of the temple. By confining the preparation of offerings to specific areas, the risk of transmitting holiness to the people inadvertently was minimized. This separation underscores the importance of maintaining the purity and order prescribed by God in the worship practices of Israel.

Theological Implications:

The detailed instructions for the Courts for Boiling and Baking reflect the broader biblical theme of holiness and the need for proper mediation between God and His people. The priests, as mediators, were responsible for ensuring that the offerings were prepared according to divine instructions, highlighting the seriousness of approaching God with reverence and obedience.

Furthermore, these courts symbolize the provision God made for His people to maintain a right relationship with Him through the sacrificial system. The meticulous design and function of the temple, including these courts, point to the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect and final offering for sin.

Historical Context:

The vision of Ezekiel, including the description of the Courts for Boiling and Baking, was given during the Babylonian exile, a time when the first temple had been destroyed. This vision provided hope and a future expectation for the restoration of worship and the presence of God among His people. While the second temple was eventually built, it did not fully match Ezekiel's vision, leading many to interpret this prophecy as pointing to a future, eschatological fulfillment.

In summary, the Courts for Boiling and Baking were an essential part of the temple's function, ensuring the proper preparation of offerings and maintaining the holiness of the worship space. They reflect the broader biblical themes of holiness, mediation, and the anticipation of a restored relationship with God through the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.