Ezekiel 41:1

KJV

¶ Afterward he brought me to the temple, and measured the posts, six cubits broad on the one side, and six cubits broad on the other side, [which was] the breadth of the tabernacle.

KJV (with Strong's)

Afterward he brought {H935} me to the temple {H1964}, and measured {H4058} the posts {H352}, six {H8337} cubits {H520} broad {H7341} on the one side {H6311}, and six {H8337} cubits {H520} broad {H7341} on the other side {H6311}, which was the breadth {H7341} of the tabernacle {H168}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He brought me to the sanctuary and measured at ten-and-a-half feet the thickness of the walls on either side of its entrance, which was [also] the thickness of [the walls surrounding] the "tent" [that is, the sanctuary together with the Especially Holy Place].

Berean Standard Bible

Then the man brought me into the outer sanctuary and measured the side pillars to be six cubits wide on each side.

American Standard Version

And he brought me to the temple, and measured the posts, six cubits broad on the one side, and six cubits broad on the other side, which was the breadth of the tabernacle.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 41:1 initiates the detailed architectural description of the temple proper within Ezekiel's grand vision, following the delineation of the outer and inner courts. This verse specifically records the initial measurements of the temple's entrance, noting the substantial breadth of its posts. It highlights divine precision in design and establishes a profound theological connection by explicitly linking the dimensions of this visionary temple to the ancient wilderness tabernacle, underscoring continuity in God's dwelling among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the climactic section of Ezekiel's prophecy, specifically chapters 40-48, which detail an elaborate vision of a new temple and the reordering of the land. Having previously described the outer court in [Ezekiel 40:1-27](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40:1-27 - The Outer Court") and the inner court in [Ezekiel 40:28-47](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40:28-47 - The Inner Court"), the angelic guide now leads Ezekiel to the very threshold of the temple building itself. Chapter 41 then proceeds to meticulously describe the temple's dimensions, its side chambers, and the surrounding structures, building a comprehensive picture of the sanctuary's interior. The precision of these measurements, as seen in [Ezekiel 41:1](/ezekiel/41-1 "Ezekiel 41:1 - Temple Measurements Begin"), sets the tone for the entire architectural blueprint, emphasizing divine order and the sacred nature of the space.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel received this vision while exiled in Babylon, far from Jerusalem and the destroyed temple. The destruction of Jerusalem and its temple in 586 BC was a profound trauma for the Jewish people, raising questions about God's presence and covenant faithfulness. Against this backdrop of despair and displacement, Ezekiel's vision served as a powerful message of hope and restoration. The detailed architectural plan, though perhaps never literally built to these exact specifications, provided a tangible blueprint for a renewed covenant relationship and the re-establishment of God's dwelling among His people. The use of the "cubit" as a unit of measurement was standard in ancient Near Eastern architecture, reflecting a practical and universally understood system for construction.
* **Key Themes:** [Ezekiel 41:1](/ezekiel/41-1 "Ezekiel 41:1 - Temple Measurements Begin") contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Ezekiel. First, the theme of **Divine Presence and Glory** is paramount, as the entire vision anticipates the return of God's glory to a purified sanctuary, a stark contrast to its departure described earlier in [Ezekiel 10](/ezekiel/10 "Ezekiel 10 - The Departure of God's Glory"). Second, **Holiness and Separation** are emphasized through the meticulous measurements and the distinct zones of the temple, highlighting the sacredness required for God's dwelling and the need for Israel to be set apart. Third, the explicit reference to the "tabernacle" introduces the theme of **Continuity and Typology**, linking this future temple to Israel's earliest sanctuary and underscoring God's unchanging desire to dwell with His people, even as the forms of that dwelling evolve. This connection grounds the future hope in the historical precedent of God's faithfulness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **temple (Hebrew, _hêykâl'_):** This term refers to a large public building, specifically a palace or temple. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, it denotes the central sanctuary building, the dwelling place of God. Its use here signifies a grand, magnificent structure, far exceeding the scale of previous temples, emphasizing the ultimate glory of God's renewed presence.
* **posts (Hebrew, _ʼayil'_):** Derived from a root meaning "strength," this word can refer to a ram, a mighty man, or, as here, a pilaster or strong support. In the context of architecture, it denotes the substantial doorposts or pillars that frame an entrance. Their measurement of "six cubits broad" indicates their massive and foundational nature, emphasizing the strength and permanence of this divine structure.
* **tabernacle (Hebrew, _ʼôhel'_):** From a root meaning "to be clearly conspicuous from a distance," this word primarily means "tent" or "dwelling place." It specifically refers to the portable sanctuary used by Israel in the wilderness, commanded by God in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Command to Build the Tabernacle"). The explicit comparison of the temple's breadth to that of the tabernacle creates a direct theological link, suggesting a continuity of God's dwelling with His people from the wilderness wanderings to this future, glorious temple.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Afterward he brought me to the temple":** This phrase signals a transition in Ezekiel's guided tour of the visionary sanctuary. "He" refers to the angelic guide who has been accompanying Ezekiel and providing the detailed measurements. The movement "to the temple" indicates that the focus is now shifting from the outer and inner courts to the sacred core building itself, the dwelling place of God's glory.
* **"and measured the posts, six cubits broad on the one side, and six cubits broad on the other side":** Here, the guide begins the precise architectural survey of the temple's entrance. The "posts" are the substantial doorframes or pilasters. The measurement of "six cubits broad" on both sides emphasizes the symmetrical and robust nature of this gateway. The repetition underscores the meticulous detail and divine precision inherent in the blueprint, signifying the importance and grandeur of the entrance to God's holy dwelling.
* **"which was the breadth of the tabernacle":** This is a critical theological statement. It explicitly links the dimensions of this visionary temple to the ancient wilderness tabernacle. While the overall scale of Ezekiel's temple is much grander, this specific dimension—the breadth of the entrance posts—echoes the dimensions of the original portable sanctuary. This connection highlights continuity in God's plan for dwelling with His people, bridging the past covenant with the future hope of restoration and renewed presence.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 41:1 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Precision and Detail**, evident in the meticulous recording of measurements ("six cubits broad"). This device serves to underscore the divine origin of the vision, implying that every aspect of God's plan is exact, ordered, and purposeful, leaving no room for human error or improvisation in the construction of His dwelling. Another key device is **Symbolism**, where the physical dimensions and structures of the temple symbolize spiritual realities. The massive "posts" represent the strength, stability, and sacred boundaries of God's presence. Furthermore, the explicit comparison to the "tabernacle" functions as **Typology** and **Continuity**, establishing a direct link between God's past dwelling among His people and His future, restored presence. This connection assures the exiles that God's covenant faithfulness endures, and His desire to dwell with them remains constant, even if the form of that dwelling evolves.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 41:1, with its precise measurements and explicit link to the tabernacle, profoundly reinforces the theme of God's enduring desire to dwell among His people. The meticulous detail suggests that God's presence is not haphazard but ordered, holy, and accessible only on His terms. This vision served as a powerful reminder to the exiled Israelites that despite the destruction of their temple, God's covenant promises remained, and a future restoration of His dwelling place was assured. It speaks to the sanctity of divine space and the reverence due to God's presence, echoing the careful construction of the tabernacle and Solomon's temple. The continuity with the tabernacle also highlights that while the form of God's dwelling may change (from portable tent to grand temple), His fundamental commitment to being with humanity remains constant, culminating in the ultimate reality of His presence.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Command to Build the Tabernacle")
* [1 Kings 6:1](/1_kings/6-1 "1 Kings 6:1 - Building of Solomon's Temple")
* [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous measurements and the profound connection to the tabernacle in Ezekiel 41:1 offer rich ground for spiritual reflection. This verse reminds us that God is a God of order, precision, and intentionality. His dwelling place, whether a physical structure or a spiritual reality, is not a casual space but one consecrated by His presence. For believers today, this can inspire a deeper appreciation for the holiness of God and the sacredness of His dwelling among us. It challenges us to consider the "dimensions" of our own lives—our thoughts, actions, and relationships—and whether they reflect the divine order and intentionality that God desires. Just as the temple was prepared for God's glory, so too are we, as individuals and as the corporate body of Christ, called to be prepared as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, reflecting His holiness and purpose in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of Ezekiel's temple vision challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character?**
* **In what ways can we, as individual believers and as the church, embody the "holiness" and "order" that this temple vision symbolizes?**
* **What does the continuity between the tabernacle and this visionary temple teach us about God's enduring faithfulness and His desire to dwell with humanity?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "six cubits broad" measurement?**

Answer: The "six cubits broad" measurement, repeated for both posts, emphasizes the substantial and symmetrical nature of the temple's entrance. The number six, while not explicitly symbolic here in the way seven or three might be, contributes to the overall sense of divine precision and order that permeates the entire vision. It highlights that every detail of God's dwelling place is carefully planned and executed according to His perfect design, indicating a robust and imposing gateway to the sacred space.

**Is Ezekiel's temple a literal building that will be constructed in the future?**

Answer: The interpretation of Ezekiel's temple vision varies among scholars and theologians. Some interpret it as a literal temple yet to be built in Jerusalem, often associated with the millennial reign of Christ. Others view it as a symbolic blueprint, representing the ideal spiritual reality of God's presence among His people in the New Covenant, or a metaphorical depiction of the church. Still others see it as a prophetic vision that was partially fulfilled in the Second Temple period but ultimately points to a greater, eschatological reality. The detailed nature of the vision, including specific measurements like those in [Ezekiel 41:1](/ezekiel/41-1 "Ezekiel 41:1 - Temple Measurements Begin"), lends itself to both literal and symbolic readings, but its primary theological purpose is to assure Israel of God's enduring presence and future restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 41:1, with its focus on the precise measurements of God's dwelling place and its explicit link to the tabernacle, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament temple served as a physical locus for God's presence, it was always a shadow pointing to a greater reality. Jesus declared, "[Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")," speaking of the temple of His body ([John 2:21](/john/2-21 "John 2:21 - Jesus Speaks of His Body as the Temple")). In Christ, God's dwelling place is no longer confined to stone and mortar but is embodied in the person of the Son, who is "[God with us](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")" (Immanuel). The meticulous design of Ezekiel's temple, with its substantial posts, foreshadows the unshakeable foundation of God's presence in Christ, through whom we have "[boldness to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19 - Access Through Christ's Blood")" ([Hebrews 10:19](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19 - Access Through Christ's Blood")). Furthermore, the church, as the "[body of Christ](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - The Church as the Body of Christ")," is now the spiritual temple where God's Spirit dwells ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - Believers as God's Temple")), fulfilling the promise of God's enduring presence among His people, not through physical dimensions but through the indwelling Spirit. Ultimately, the vision culminates in the New Jerusalem, where God "[tabernacles with humanity](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity")" and the "[Lamb is its temple](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - The Lamb is the Temple")" ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - The Lamb is the Temple")), signifying a perfect and eternal union between God and His redeemed people, fully realized in 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.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 40:2

In the visions of God brought he me into the land of Israel, and set me upon a very high mountain, by which [was] as the frame of a city on the south.

Ezekiel 40:3

And he brought me thither, and, behold, [there was] a man, whose appearance [was] like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate.

Ezekiel 41:23

And the temple and the sanctuary had two doors.

Ezekiel 40:17

Then brought he me into the outward court, and, lo, [there were] chambers, and a pavement made for the court round about: thirty chambers [were] upon the pavement.

1 Kings 6:2

And the house which king Solomon built for the LORD, the length thereof [was] threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof twenty [cubits], and the height thereof thirty cubits.

Ezekiel 41:21

The posts of the temple [were] squared, [and] the face of the sanctuary; the appearance [of the one] as the appearance [of the other].

Revelation 21:15

And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.