Ezekiel 40:10

KJV

And the little chambers of the gate eastward [were] three on this side, and three on that side; they three [were] of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the little chambers {H8372} of the gate {H8179} eastward {H1870}{H6921} were three {H7969} on this side {H6311}, and three {H7969} on that side {H6311}; they three {H7969} were of one {H259} measure {H4060}: and the posts {H352} had one {H259} measure {H4060} on this side and on that side.

Complete Jewish Bible

There were three guardrooms on each side of the east gate, all the same size; and on each side the supports [between the guardrooms] were also all the same size.

Berean Standard Bible

There were three gate chambers on each side of the east gate, each with the same measurements, and the gateposts on either side also had the same measurements.

American Standard Version

And the lodges of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 40:10 provides a meticulous architectural description of the eastern gate of the visionary temple, detailing the symmetrical arrangement and uniform dimensions of its "little chambers" and "posts." This verse underscores the divine precision and absolute order inherent in God's blueprint for His sanctuary, emphasizing themes of holiness, the exactitude of His design, and the controlled, reverent access required for His dwelling place among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the expansive and highly detailed temple vision presented in [Ezekiel 40-48](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40-48 - The Vision of the New Temple"). Following the initial introduction of the prophet's divine guide and the overall scope of the vision in [Ezekiel 40:1-4](/ezekiel/40-1 "Ezekiel 40:1-4 - Ezekiel's Vision of the New Temple"), the narrative proceeds with an exhaustive measurement of the temple complex. Ezekiel 40:10 specifically focuses on the eastern gate, continuing the detailed architectural survey that began with the outer wall in [Ezekiel 40:5](/ezekiel/40-5 "Ezekiel 40:5 - Measurement of the Outer Wall"). This meticulous enumeration of dimensions and structural components serves as a literary device to convey the divine origin, perfect nature, and unparalleled holiness of this future sanctuary, offering a stark contrast to the destroyed temple in Jerusalem and providing a tangible vision of divine restoration.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of this new temple was granted to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound spiritual and national despair for the Jewish people following the destruction of Solomon's Temple in 586 BC. In the ancient Near East, temples were considered the earthly residences of deities, and their design often embodied cosmological order and divine presence. Gates, in particular, were not merely entry points but significant architectural features in ancient cities and temple complexes, often serving as centers for security, administration, commerce, and judicial proceedings. The inclusion of "chambers" within the gate structures, as described in this verse, points to guardrooms or administrative spaces, highlighting the controlled and sacred nature of access to the holy precincts. The emphasis on precise measurements would have resonated deeply with the Israelite understanding of God's exact instructions for the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple, reinforcing the concept of a divinely ordained and perfectly ordered sacred space.

* **Key Themes:** The intricate details found in [Ezekiel 40](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40 - The Vision of the Temple"), including Ezekiel 40:10, contribute to several profound theological themes. First, the theme of **Divine Precision and Order** is paramount; the repeated emphasis on "one measure" throughout the chapter, particularly evident in this verse, underscores God's absolute meticulousness and the perfect, unchangeable nature of His plans. Second, the **Holiness and Purity** of God's presence are powerfully conveyed; the gates, with their chambers and precise dimensions, function as controlled access points, signifying the sacred boundary between the holy and the common, and the strict requirements for approaching God's dwelling. Finally, the entire vision embodies the overarching theme of **Restoration and Hope** for the exiled people, promising a future where God's glory would return to His sanctuary, as vividly depicted later in [Ezekiel 43:1-5](/ezekiel/43-1-5 "Ezekiel 43:1-5 - The Glory of the Lord Returns to the Temple"), and His presence would once again dwell among them in perfect order and holiness, signaling a new era of covenant faithfulness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **chambers (Hebrew, _tâʼ'_):** From a root meaning "to circumscribe" or "to mark out," this word (H8372) refers to a room or cell, often a small, enclosed space. In the context of the gate, these "little chambers" would likely function as guardrooms or administrative offices, indicating controlled access and the functional aspects of the gate structure. Their presence signifies a regulated and guarded approach to the holy precincts of the temple.
* **one (Hebrew, _ʼechâd'_):** This numeral (H259) signifies unity, singularity, or sameness. Its repeated use in "one measure" is crucial, emphasizing the absolute uniformity and consistency of the architectural components. It points to a single, divine standard that governs every aspect of the temple's construction, ensuring there is no deviation or arbitrary variation in its dimensions.
* **measure (Hebrew, _middâh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "extension," this term (H4060) refers to a dimension (such as height or breadth), a standard of measurement, or a precisely measured portion. Its frequent repetition throughout Ezekiel 40, including in this verse, underscores the exactitude of the divine blueprint, indicating that every aspect of the temple's construction is precisely quantified and determined by God's perfect design.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the little chambers of the gate eastward [were] three on this side, and three on that side":** This initial clause describes the symmetrical arrangement of six small rooms or guardhouses integrated within the structure of the eastern gate. Three chambers are positioned on one side of the gate passage, and three on the opposite side, illustrating a balanced and highly ordered design. The specific mention of the "eastward" gate is significant, as this gate is traditionally associated with the entrance of God's glory into the temple (cf. [Ezekiel 43:1-2](/ezekiel/43-1-2 "Ezekiel 43:1-2 - The Glory of the Lord Enters by the East Gate")).
* **"they three [were] of one measure":** This phrase emphatically highlights the uniformity of these six chambers. All three on each side, and by clear implication all six in total, possessed identical dimensions. This consistency speaks directly to the divine precision and the complete absence of any deviation from the established, singular standard for the temple's construction.
* **"and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side":** This final clause extends the theme of uniformity to the structural posts or pilasters that framed the gate passage. Just like the chambers, these essential load-bearing elements were also of identical measure on both sides. This reinforces the overarching message of perfect symmetry, divine order, and strict adherence to a singular, divine blueprint for the entire visionary temple complex, ensuring its stability and integrity.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Ezekiel 40:10, and indeed throughout the detailed architectural vision of Ezekiel 40-48, is **Architectural Detail** or **Blueprint Narrative**. The meticulous enumeration of specific dimensions, components, and their precise arrangements serves to convey the divine origin and perfect design of the visionary temple. This is powerfully amplified by **Repetition**, particularly of phrases such as "three on this side, and three on that side" and, most notably, "one measure." This repetition is not mere redundancy but functions to emphasize the absolute uniformity, precision, and unwavering standard of God's architectural plan. Furthermore, the entire vision operates as profound **Symbolism**, where the physical temple, with its exact measurements and controlled access, symbolizes God's inherent holiness, His desire for ordered and reverent worship, and the future restoration of His people and His glorious presence among them. The very act of measuring performed by the divine guide can be seen as a symbolic act of divine ownership, ordering, and preparation for a new era of divine-human relationship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 40:10, with its profound emphasis on precise and uniform measurements, deeply underscores the character of God as a God of ultimate order, meticulous precision, and absolute holiness. The exhaustive detail in the temple's blueprint reveals that God's plans are not arbitrary or chaotic, but are executed with perfect design and an eternal purpose. This divine exactitude extends far beyond mere architecture; it reflects His covenant faithfulness and the overarching redemptive plan He meticulously orchestrates for humanity. The uniformity implied by "one measure" signifies the unchangeable nature of God's standards for holiness and worship, implying that access to His sacred presence is not casual or negotiable but requires adherence to His divine decree. This visionary physical temple, though not literally built, serves as a powerful type, foreshadowing the ultimate dwelling of God among His people and the perfect, divine order of His eternal kingdom.

* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")
* [Hebrews 12:14](/hebrews/12-14 "Hebrews 12:14 - Pursue Peace and Holiness")
* [Revelation 21:16](/revelation/21-16 "Revelation 21:16 - The Dimensions of the New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Ezekiel's temple vision, particularly the precise measurements highlighted in Ezekiel 40:10, offer profound insights for contemporary believers. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of perfect order, intentional design, and unwavering purpose. His meticulousness in planning His dwelling place encourages us to cultivate a deep trust in His sovereign plan for our lives, knowing that He orchestrates all things according to His perfect will, even when circumstances appear chaotic or uncertain. Furthermore, the "one measure" principle challenges us to strive for consistency, integrity, and authenticity in our faith, ensuring that our lives are built upon the singular, unchanging standard of God's Word rather than fluctuating human opinions or cultural whims. Just as the temple's precise design ensured its holiness and functionality, we are called to pursue holiness in our personal lives, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and that our corporate gatherings as the Church should reflect God's divine order, reverence, and beauty. This divine attention to detail in sacred architecture inspires us to serve God with diligence, excellence, and faithfulness in every sphere of our lives, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant the task may appear.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the divine precision in Ezekiel's temple vision deepen our understanding of God's character and His meticulous approach to creation and redemption?**
* **In what specific areas of our lives might God be calling us to cultivate greater order, diligence, or attention to detail, reflecting His own meticulous nature?**
* **How can the concept of "one measure" inspire us to seek unity, consistency, and unwavering adherence to God's unchanging standards in our personal faith and corporate worship?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "little chambers" in the gate?**

Answer: The "little chambers" (Hebrew: *tâʼ*) within the gate structure were likely guardrooms or administrative offices. In ancient temple complexes, gates were not merely entryways but also served as crucial points of security, control, and sometimes even judicial proceedings or public gatherings. The presence of these chambers signifies regulated and controlled access to the holy precincts of the temple. They underscore the sacredness and exclusivity of the space, indicating that entry was carefully monitored and that certain standards of purity, reverence, and order were required to approach God's dwelling. This concept aligns with the broader theme of holiness and separation that pervades the entire temple vision in [Ezekiel 40-48](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40-48 - The Vision of the New Temple"), emphasizing the sacred boundary between the common and the holy.

**Why is "one measure" repeated so often in this chapter, including in Ezekiel 40:10?**

Answer: The repetition of "one measure" (Hebrew: *ʼechâd middâh*) is a crucial literary and theological device that emphasizes absolute uniformity, precision, and divine standardization. It highlights that every component of the visionary temple, from the smallest chamber to the largest court, conforms to a single, unvarying divine blueprint. Theologically, this repetition powerfully underscores God's perfect order, His meticulous attention to detail, and the unchangeable nature of His standards for holiness and worship. It serves as a stark contrast to human imperfection and variability, asserting that God's dwelling place is built according to His perfect and unchanging will, reflecting His own character of faithfulness, immutability, and sovereignty. This principle of precise divine instruction is a recurring motif throughout biblical history, from the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus](/exodus "Exodus - The Book of the Exodus") to the detailed laws in [Leviticus](/leviticus "Leviticus - The Book of Leviticus"), all pointing to God's demand for order and holiness in His presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 40:10, with its profound emphasis on the precise measurements and uniform standards of the temple's gate chambers and posts, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the visionary temple points to a future dwelling of God among His people, it also powerfully typifies the perfect and ultimate "temple" in Christ Himself. Jesus famously declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking not of the physical structure but of the temple of His own body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of the Temple of His Body")). He is the perfectly measured, divinely ordained standard, the one through whom all creation holds together and in whom all God's purposes find their perfect dimension ([Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - In Him All Things Hold Together")). The meticulous precision of the temple's design foreshadows Christ's perfect obedience, His spotless life, and His unblemished sacrifice, which perfectly met every holy requirement of God's law, thereby providing access to God's presence that no physical temple or earthly ritual could ever achieve ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Furthermore, believers, united with Christ, become "living stones" built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, reflecting the divine order and holiness that began with the physical temple's blueprint ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")). Ultimately, the vision of the New Jerusalem, where there is no longer a physical temple because "the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - No Temple in the New Jerusalem")), represents the perfect and eternal fulfillment of God's desire to dwell among His people, a dwelling made possible by the perfectly measured life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection of Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.