Ezekiel 41:2

KJV

And the breadth of the door [was] ten cubits; and the sides of the door [were] five cubits on the one side, and five cubits on the other side: and he measured the length thereof, forty cubits: and the breadth, twenty cubits.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the breadth {H7341} of the door {H6607} was ten {H6235} cubits {H520}; and the sides {H3802} of the door {H6607} were five {H2568} cubits {H520} on the one side, and five {H2568} cubits {H520} on the other side: and he measured {H4058} the length {H753} thereof, forty {H705} cubits {H520}: and the breadth {H7341}, twenty {H6242} cubits {H520}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The width of the entrance was seventeen-and-a-half feet. The sides of the entrance were eight-and-three-quarters feet on the one side and the same on the other. He measured its length at seventy feet and its width at thirty-five feet.

Berean Standard Bible

The width of the entrance was ten cubits, and the sides of the entrance were five cubits on each side. He also measured the length of the outer sanctuary to be forty cubits, and the width to be twenty cubits.

American Standard Version

And the breadth of the entrance was ten cubits; and the sides of the entrance were five cubits on the one side, and five cubits on the other side: and he measured the length thereof, forty cubits, and the breadth, twenty cubits.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 41:2 offers precise architectural dimensions for a significant doorway and an adjacent section within the visionary temple that the prophet Ezekiel is shown. This meticulous detail, presented to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, underscores the divine origin and perfect design of God's future dwelling place, emphasizing His order, holiness, and the certainty of His promised restoration and renewed presence among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 41:2 is embedded within a highly detailed and extensive architectural blueprint of a new temple, spanning [Ezekiel chapters 40-42](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel's Temple Vision"). Beginning in [Ezekiel 40:1](/ezekiel/40-1 "Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple"), Ezekiel is transported in a vision to a very high mountain and given a comprehensive tour of a city-like structure by a celestial guide wielding a measuring rod. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 40:1-41:1) describe the outer court, inner court, various chambers, and the porch of the temple, all with exact measurements. This particular verse, [Ezekiel 41:2](/ezekiel/41-2 "Ezekiel 41:2 - Temple Door Measurements"), focuses on the dimensions of the main entrance to the holy place and the subsequent measurements of the sanctuary itself, indicating a progression deeper into the sacred complex. The sheer volume of numerical specifications throughout these chapters emphasizes the divine authority and precision behind the vision, leaving no doubt about its intentionality and ultimate fulfillment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of the temple was given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national despair and spiritual disorientation for the Jewish people. Jerusalem and its glorious temple had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. In this context, the detailed vision of a new, perfectly ordered temple served as a powerful message of hope, restoration, and God's enduring covenant faithfulness. For a people whose identity was deeply intertwined with the temple as the dwelling place of God's presence, this blueprint offered a tangible promise of future renewal. Ancient Near Eastern cultures placed great significance on temple architecture, viewing temples as microcosms of the cosmos and precise reflections of divine order. The meticulous measurements would have resonated with this cultural understanding, affirming the divine origin of the design and the absolute holiness of the space.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous measurements in [Ezekiel 41:2](/ezekiel/41-2 "Ezekiel 41:2 - Temple Door Measurements") contribute significantly to several overarching themes in Ezekiel's prophecy. First, it highlights **Divine Precision and Order**, demonstrating that God's plans are not vague but are executed with absolute accuracy and intentionality. This precision assures the exiled community of the certainty and divine authority of the promised restoration. Second, the detailed architectural elements, particularly the "door," emphasize **Holiness and Access**. The specific dimensions of the entrance to the sanctuary suggest a divinely ordained and controlled pathway into God's sacred presence, reinforcing the concept of separation between the holy and the common, which is a recurring theme in [Ezekiel](/ezekiel/42 "The Book of Ezekiel"). Finally, the entire temple vision, including these specific measurements, serves as a powerful symbol of **God's Enduring Presence and Restoration**. The ultimate purpose of this perfectly designed structure is to be the place where the glory of the Lord returns, as vividly described later in [Ezekiel 43:4](/ezekiel/43-4 "Ezekiel 43:4 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple"), offering a tangible hope for renewed communion between God and His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **door (Hebrew, _pethach'_):** H6607, meaning "an opening (literally), i.e. door (gate) or entrance way." In this context, it signifies the primary point of access into a significant part of the temple structure. Its precise dimensions are critical, indicating controlled and divinely ordained entry into the sacred space. The "door" is not merely a functional opening but a divinely specified threshold.
* **cubits (Hebrew, _ʼammâh'_):** H520, referring to a standard ancient linear measure, typically the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. Its inclusion underscores the literal, measurable nature of the vision's details, even if the ultimate interpretation carries symbolic weight. The consistent use of "cubits" throughout the temple vision reinforces the idea of a tangible, divinely dictated blueprint.
* **measured (Hebrew, _mâdad'_):** H4058, a primitive root meaning "properly, to stretch; by implication, to measure (as if by stretching a line); figuratively, to be extended." This word emphasizes the active role of the celestial guide in meticulously surveying and documenting every dimension. It highlights the divine authority behind the blueprint, as God Himself (through His messenger) is the one establishing these precise specifications.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the breadth of the door [was] ten cubits":** This clause introduces the initial, significant dimension of the main entrance. The "door" here likely refers to the entrance to the holy place or the main sanctuary. A breadth of ten cubits (approximately 15-18 feet) indicates a substantial and imposing entryway, emphasizing the grandeur and importance of the space it grants access to.
* **"and the sides of the door [were] five cubits on the one side, and five cubits on the other side":** This detail further specifies the construction of the doorway, indicating that the "sides" or jambs of the door were each five cubits wide. This could refer to the thickness of the walls forming the door frame or perhaps the depth of the entranceway itself. The sum of these sides (5+5=10) equals the overall breadth, suggesting a symmetrical and perfectly balanced design. This precision highlights the meticulous nature of the divine architect.
* **"and he measured the length thereof, forty cubits: and the breadth, twenty cubits.":** This final clause shifts focus from the door itself to the dimensions of the room or area immediately beyond it, likely the main sanctuary or holy place. A "length" of forty cubits and a "breadth" of twenty cubits describe a rectangular space of significant size (approximately 60-72 feet long by 30-36 feet wide). This provides the overall dimensions of the primary sacred chamber, further reinforcing the scale and detailed planning of the entire temple complex.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 41:2, like much of the temple vision, primarily employs **Detailed Description** and **Numerical Precision**. The exhaustive enumeration of measurements, down to the cubit, serves to establish the absolute divine authority and reality of the vision. This is not a vague impression but a divinely dictated blueprint. The repetition of precise numerical values throughout [Ezekiel chapters 40-42](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel's Temple Vision") creates a sense of **Verisimilitude**, making the visionary experience feel tangible and real, even though it is a spiritual revelation. Furthermore, the architectural elements themselves function as **Symbolism**. The "door" represents access and the threshold between the profane and the holy, while the precisely measured "length" and "breadth" of the sanctuary symbolize God's perfect order, holiness, and the structured nature of His dwelling place. The very act of "measuring" (as noted in the verse) is a symbolic act of divine ownership, consecration, and the establishment of boundaries for sacred space.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 41:2, with its precise measurements of the temple's entrance and inner dimensions, powerfully communicates God's meticulous nature and His deep concern for order, holiness, and the proper way of approaching Him. This divine precision underscores that access to God's presence is not arbitrary but divinely ordained and structured. The detailed blueprint of a restored temple offered a tangible hope to the exiles, assuring them that God's covenant promises of dwelling among His people would be fulfilled, even after the destruction of the first temple. It points to a future where God's glory would return to a perfectly prepared dwelling, signifying renewed communion and a restored relationship between God and humanity, a theme that finds its ultimate expression in the New Covenant.

* [Exodus 25:9](/exodus/25-9 "Exodus 25:9 - Pattern for the Tabernacle")
* [Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ, the Greater Tabernacle")
* [Revelation 21:22-23](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22-23 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous details of Ezekiel 41:2, though seemingly technical, offer profound spiritual insights for believers today. They remind us that God is a God of infinite precision and perfect order, not only in grand cosmic designs but also in the seemingly minute details of His plans for humanity. This level of divine intentionality should inspire us to live lives marked by diligence, excellence, and a deep respect for God's holiness. Just as the temple's dimensions defined the sacred space and access to God, our lives are called to reflect a similar intentionality in how we approach Him and live for Him. We are to be "living temples" ([1_corinthians/6-19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body a Temple")) where God's Spirit dwells, requiring us to pursue holiness and order in our thoughts, words, and actions. The vision also points to a future hope—a time of perfect communion and God's unhindered presence, motivating us to anticipate and prepare for that glorious reality.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the temple vision challenge or affirm your understanding of His character?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be called to greater precision, order, or intentionality as a reflection of God's nature?**
* **How does the concept of a "door" and "access" in this verse relate to your personal walk with God and your understanding of Christ as the way?**
* **What hope does the vision of a perfectly designed dwelling for God offer you in times of personal or collective brokenness and disorder?**

### FAQ

**Is Ezekiel's temple vision meant to be a literal blueprint for a future temple, or is it purely symbolic?**

Answer: Interpretations of Ezekiel's temple vision vary widely among scholars and theologians. Some believe it describes a literal temple that will be built in Jerusalem during a future millennial reign of Christ, emphasizing the precise measurements as a divine blueprint. Others view it as primarily symbolic, representing God's ideal dwelling with His people, the perfection of the Church, or the spiritual reality of God's presence in the New Covenant. A third view sees it as a combination, with literal elements pointing to deeper spiritual truths. Regardless of the interpretation, the vision's emphasis on meticulous detail underscores God's order, holiness, and the certainty of His ultimate plan for restoration and dwelling with humanity. The very precision of [Ezekiel 41:2](/ezekiel/41-2 "Ezekiel 41:2 - Temple Door Measurements") lends weight to the idea that it is a divinely intended design, whether its fulfillment is physical, spiritual, or both.

**What is the significance of the "cubit" as a unit of measurement in this vision?**

Answer: The "cubit" (Hebrew: _ʼammâh_) was a standard ancient linear measurement, typically ranging from 18 to 21 inches (approximately 45 to 53 cm), based on the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. Its significance in Ezekiel's vision lies in its grounding the divine blueprint in tangible, measurable terms. The repeated use of "cubits" throughout [Ezekiel chapters 40-42](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel's Temple Vision") emphasizes the literalness of the dimensions within the visionary experience. It communicates that God's plan is not vague or abstract but concrete and precisely defined. This precision assures the reader of the divine authority behind the vision and the certainty of its ultimate fulfillment, whether that fulfillment is understood literally, symbolically, or both.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 41:2, with its meticulous description of the temple's doorway and inner dimensions, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament temple served as a shadow and a type, pointing to the reality to come, Christ Himself is the true and ultimate Temple of God. As the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), He tabernacled among us, embodying God's presence in a way no physical structure ever could. The "door" in Ezekiel's vision, representing access to God's holy presence, is perfectly fulfilled in Jesus, who declared, "[I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus is the Door")." Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Christ opened a new and living way into the very presence of God, tearing the veil of the temple from top to bottom ([matthew/27-51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Veil Torn")), signifying direct and unhindered access to the Father. The precise measurements of Ezekiel's temple, which spoke of divine order and holiness, are perfectly realized in Christ, in whom "all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily" ([colossians/2-9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of God in Christ")). Ultimately, the vision of God dwelling among His people, anticipated by Ezekiel's temple, is consummated in the New Jerusalem, where there is no need for a physical temple because "[the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - God and Lamb are the Temple")" and God dwells directly with humanity ([revelation/21-3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Man")). Thus, Ezekiel's detailed blueprint foreshadows the perfect, accessible, and eternal dwelling of God with His people, fully realized in and through Jesus 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

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.

2 Chronicles 3:3

Now these [are the things wherein] Solomon was instructed for the building of the house of God. The length by cubits after the first measure [was] threescore cubits, and the breadth twenty cubits.

1 Kings 6:17

And the house, that [is], the temple before it, was forty cubits [long].

Exodus 26:36

And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework.

2 Chronicles 29:7

Also they have shut up the doors of the porch, and put out the lamps, and have not burned incense nor offered burnt offerings in the holy [place] unto the God of Israel.

John 10:7

Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

2 Chronicles 3:7

He overlaid also the house, the beams, the posts, and the walls thereof, and the doors thereof, with gold; and graved cherubims on the walls.