Ezekiel 40:26

KJV

And [there were] seven steps to go up to it, and the arches thereof [were] before them: and it had palm trees, one on this side, and another on that side, upon the posts thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

And there were seven {H7651} steps {H4609} to go up {H5930} to it, and the arches {H361} thereof were before {H6440} them: and it had palm trees {H8561}, one {H259} on this side, and another {H259} on that side, upon the posts {H352} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

Seven steps led up to it [from the outside], while its vestibule was toward the inside. It had palm trees, one on each side, on its supports.

Berean Standard Bible

Seven steps led up to it, and its portico was opposite them; it had palm trees on its side pillars, one on each side.

American Standard Version

And there were seven steps to go up to it, and the arches thereof were before them; and it had palm-trees, one on this side, and another on that side, upon the posts thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 40:26 provides a meticulous architectural detail within the prophet Ezekiel's grand vision of a new temple, specifically describing the entrance to one of its gates. This verse highlights the precise construction, noting the seven steps leading up to the gate, the placement of its arches, and the decorative palm trees adorning its posts. These elements contribute to a larger blueprint that underscores divine order, holiness, and the intentional design of God's dwelling place among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 40:26 is situated within the extensive temple vision described in [Ezekiel chapters 40-48](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel's Temple Vision"). This vision follows Ezekiel's prophecies of judgment against Israel and surrounding nations, as well as promises of restoration. Beginning in [Ezekiel 40:1](/ezekiel/40-1 "Ezekiel 40:1 - The Vision Begins"), the prophet is transported by God to a very high mountain in the land of Israel, where he encounters a man with a measuring rod and a line of flax. This divine guide meticulously measures various parts of the temple complex, including the outer court, inner court, gates, and chambers. Verse 26, specifically, details the architectural features of the inner gate on the south side, following the description of the outer gates and preceding further measurements of the inner court and temple proper. The extreme precision of these details emphasizes the divine origin and significance of the entire structure.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of the new temple was given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national and spiritual crisis for Israel. The first temple, Solomon's Temple, had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC, and the people were far from their homeland and their sacred sanctuary. In this context, the detailed vision served as a powerful message of hope, restoration, and God's enduring presence. Temples in the ancient Near East were not merely buildings but cosmic centers, representing the dwelling place of the gods and the point of connection between heaven and earth. The meticulous design, including specific numbers of steps and decorative motifs like palm trees, resonated with ancient architectural traditions, where such elements often carried symbolic meaning related to deity, fertility, and cosmic order. The vision provided a theological anchor for a displaced people, assuring them of God's faithfulness to His covenant and His ultimate plan for a renewed dwelling among them.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, along with the broader temple vision, contributes to several significant themes. The **Divine Precision and Order** are paramount; the exact measurements, the specific number of steps, and the symmetrical placement of decorative elements highlight God's meticulous nature and the perfect order of His divine plans. This contrasts sharply with the desolation of the first temple and the spiritual disarray of Israel, pointing to a future of divine restoration and perfect governance. The **Holiness and Sacredness of God's Presence** are also central, as the detailed design creates a distinct, separated space for God's dwelling, emphasizing the reverence required to approach Him. The "seven steps" and the ornate gates signify a deliberate, structured ascent into a holy area, reinforcing the idea of **Access to Sacred Space** that is divinely ordained. Furthermore, the **Symbolism of Palm Trees** (as discussed in the exposition) points to themes of righteousness, flourishing, and vitality associated with God's renewed dwelling, echoing imagery found in other biblical texts like [Psalm 92:12](/psalm/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **seven (Hebrew, _shebaʻ'_):** From H7651, a primitive cardinal number, meaning "seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number." In this context, "seven" signifies completeness, perfection, and divine order, reinforcing the sacredness of the ascent into the temple area.
* **steps (Hebrew, _maʻălâh'_):** From H4609, meaning "elevation, i.e. the act (literally, a journey to a higher place, figuratively, a thought arising), or (concretely) the condition (literally, a step or grademark, figuratively, a superiority of station)." Here, it refers to physical steps, emphasizing the deliberate and structured ascent into the holy space, a common feature of ancient temple architecture.
* **palm trees (Hebrew, _timmôr'_):** From H8561, meaning "(architectural) a palm-like pilaster (i.e. umbellate); palm tree." These are not living trees but architectural carvings or pilasters resembling palm trees. In ancient Near Eastern and biblical art, palm trees symbolized righteousness, flourishing, victory, and prosperity, making them fitting decorations for a divine dwelling.
* **posts (Hebrew, _ʼayil'_):** From H352, meaning "properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically a chief (politically); also a ram (from his strength); a pilaster (as a strong support); an oak or other strong tree." In this architectural context, "posts" refers to the strong supports or pilasters of the gate, indicating their structural integrity and the deliberate placement of the decorative palm trees upon them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there were seven steps to go up to it,"**: This clause specifies the number of steps leading to the gate of the inner court, emphasizing a deliberate and sacred ascent. The number seven, often associated with completeness and divine perfection in biblical numerology, underscores the holiness and divine design of the temple, indicating that access to this sacred space is not casual but structured and intentional.
* **"and the arches thereof were before them:"**: This part describes the architectural feature of arches, or porticos (from the Strong's definition of H361, 'êylâm), which were integral to the gate's design. Their placement "before them" (likely referring to the entrance or the view from the steps) suggests a grand and welcoming, yet imposing, entryway, characteristic of significant ancient structures and reinforcing the gate's function as a threshold to a holy place.
* **"and it had palm trees, one on this side, and another on that side, upon the posts thereof."**: This final clause details the decorative elements of the gate. The presence of carved palm trees on the gate's strong supporting posts, symmetrically placed, speaks to the beauty, vitality, and symbolic significance of the temple. Palm trees often symbolized righteousness, flourishing, and victory, indicating the spiritual fruitfulness and divine blessing associated with God's dwelling. Their precise, symmetrical arrangement further highlights the divine order and aesthetic perfection of the vision.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 40:26 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. The most prominent is **Architectural Detail**, which is not merely descriptive but functions as a primary means of communication in this vision. The meticulous enumeration of steps, arches, and decorative elements creates a vivid, almost blueprint-like image, emphasizing divine precision and the tangible reality of God's plans. This detail also serves as a form of **Symbolism**, where each element carries deeper theological meaning. The "seven steps" symbolize completeness, perfection, and the sacredness of approaching God, while the "palm trees" are rich in symbolic associations of righteousness, flourishing, and vitality, often linked to God's people and His presence. The overall **Imagery** evoked is one of divine order, beauty, and holiness, designed to inspire awe and reverence. The repetitive and precise descriptions throughout Ezekiel 40-48, of which this verse is a part, also create a sense of **Ritualistic Precision**, suggesting that every aspect of God's dwelling and the approach to it is purposeful and divinely ordained.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 40:26, with its detailed description of the temple gate, profoundly connects to broader biblical themes of divine order, the sanctity of God's presence, and the way humanity is to approach Him. The meticulous measurements and specific architectural features underscore that God is a God of precision and intentionality, where every detail matters in His divine economy. The seven steps symbolize the completeness and perfection inherent in God's design and the reverence required for access to His holy dwelling. The palm trees, a recurring motif in biblical art and literature, speak to the flourishing and righteousness that characterize life in God's presence, reflecting His desire for His people to thrive spiritually. This vision serves as a powerful reminder of God's commitment to dwelling among His people in holiness and beauty, a promise that resonates throughout salvation history.

* [1 Kings 6:29](/1_kings/6-29 "1 Kings 6:29 - Palm Trees in Solomon's Temple")
* [Psalm 92:12](/psalm/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish Like Palm Trees")
* [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - Multitude with Palm Branches")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 40:26, though describing an ancient architectural vision, offers profound principles for contemporary believers. The meticulous detail and divine precision in God's blueprint for the temple remind us that God is a God of order, beauty, and intentionality. Every aspect of His creation and His redemptive plan is purposeful, inviting us to live lives that reflect His divine order rather than chaos. The "seven steps" and the sacred imagery emphasize the reverence and intentionality required in our approach to God. We are called to draw near to Him not casually, but with a conscious recognition of His holiness and majesty, preparing our hearts and minds. The palm trees, symbolizing righteousness and flourishing, serve as an encouragement for us to cultivate spiritual fruitfulness in our own lives, growing in grace and bearing witness to God's glory. This verse ultimately points us to the importance of living a life that honors God in every detail, embracing His design for holiness and spiritual vitality, and recognizing that His desire is to dwell among a people who reflect His character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's temple vision challenge my own approach to spiritual disciplines and daily living?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a greater sense of reverence and intentionality when I approach God in prayer, worship, or study?**
* **What "palm trees" – symbols of spiritual flourishing and righteousness – are evident in my life, and how can I nurture them further?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "seven steps" mentioned in Ezekiel 40:26?**

Answer: The "seven steps" are highly significant. In biblical numerology, the number seven often symbolizes completeness, perfection, and divine order. Its inclusion here underscores the sacredness and divine design of the temple complex. It suggests that approaching God's presence is not a casual act but a deliberate, structured, and holy ascent, emphasizing the reverence and intentionality required to enter His dwelling place. This number reinforces the idea that the entire temple vision is perfectly conceived and ordained by God.

**What do the "palm trees" on the posts symbolize in this vision?**

Answer: The "palm trees" (Hebrew: *timmôr*) mentioned in Ezekiel 40:26 are architectural carvings or pilasters resembling palm trees. In biblical and ancient Near Eastern cultures, palm trees were rich in symbolism. They often represented righteousness, flourishing, vitality, victory, and prosperity due to their upright stature, fruitfulness, and resilience. Their presence on the temple posts suggests beauty, spiritual fruitfulness, and the vitality associated with God's renewed dwelling among His people. This imagery connects with other biblical passages, such as [Psalm 92:12](/psalm/92-12 "Psalm 92:12 - The Righteous Flourish"), which describes the righteous flourishing like a palm tree.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel's vision of a meticulously designed temple, with its seven steps and symbolic palm trees, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the vision describes a physical structure, its deeper theological truths—divine presence, holy access, and spiritual flourishing—are fully realized in the New Covenant. Jesus Himself declared, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus on the Temple of His Body")," referring to "[the temple of his body](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus is the Temple")" ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")). He is the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity, the true and perfect sanctuary. The "seven steps" to access the temple foreshadow the perfect and complete access to God that we now have through Christ's atoning sacrifice. The writer of Hebrews proclaims, "Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body... let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith" ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access through Christ's Blood")). The symbolic palm trees, representing righteousness and flourishing, are fulfilled in the spiritual vitality and fruitfulness that believers experience by being "in Christ." As members of His body, the Church becomes "a holy temple in the Lord," in whom God "is building together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit" ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")). Ultimately, the New Jerusalem, the eternal city, will have no temple within it, "because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - God and the Lamb are the Temple")), signifying that God's direct, unmediated presence in Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of all temple imagery.

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.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 40:22

And their windows, and their arches, and their palm trees, [were] after the measure of the gate that looketh toward the east; and they went up unto it by seven steps; and the arches thereof [were] before them.

Ezekiel 40:16

And [there were] narrow windows to the little chambers, and to their posts within the gate round about, and likewise to the arches: and windows [were] round about inward: and upon [each] post [were] palm trees.

Ezekiel 40:6

Then came he unto the gate which looketh toward the east, and went up the stairs thereof, and measured the threshold of the gate, [which was] one reed broad; and the other threshold [of the gate, which was] one reed broad.

Song Of Solomon 7:7

This thy stature is like to a palm tree, and thy breasts to clusters [of grapes].

Song Of Solomon 7:8

I said, I will go up to the palm tree, I will take hold of the boughs thereof: now also thy breasts shall be as clusters of the vine, and the smell of thy nose like apples;

Ezekiel 40:29

And the little chambers thereof, and the posts thereof, and the arches thereof, according to these measures: and [there were] windows in it and in the arches thereof round about: [it was] fifty cubits long, and five and twenty cubits broad.

Psalms 92:12

The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.