What number verse is Ezekiel 41:5 in the Bible?

Ezekiel 41:5 is the 21,532nd verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Ezekiel 41:5 sits at position 21,532.

Translation

King James Version

After he measured the wall of the house, six cubits; and the breadth of every side chamber, four cubits, round about the house on every side.

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KJV (with Strong's)

After he measured ^H4058 the wall ^H7023 of the house ^H1004, six ^H8337 cubits ^H520; and the breadth ^H7341 of every side chamber ^H6763, four ^H702 cubits ^H520, round about ^H5439 the house ^H1004 on every side ^H5439.

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Complete Jewish Bible

[On his way out,] he measured the thickness of the wall of the house at ten-and-a-half feet [at ground level], and the width of all the side-rooms surrounding the house, seven feet [at ground level].

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Berean Standard Bible

Next he measured the wall of the temple to be six cubits thick, and the width of each side room around the temple was four cubits.

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American Standard Version

Then he measured the wall of the house, six cubits; and the breadth of every side-chamber, four cubits, round about the house on every side.

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World English Bible Messianic

Then he measured the wall of the house, six cubits; and the breadth of every side room, four cubits, all around the house on every side.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

After, he measured the wall of the house, sixe cubites, and the breadth of euery chamber foure cubites rounde about the house, on euery side.

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Young's Literal Translation

And he measureth the wall of the house six cubits, and the breadth of the side-chamber four cubits, all round the house round about.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Ezekiel 41:5 meticulously details the architectural specifications of the visionary temple, focusing on the substantial thickness of the main sanctuary's outer wall and the precise breadth of the side chambers that encircle the structure. This verse, part of a comprehensive divine blueprint, highlights the exact dimensions—six cubits for the wall and four cubits for the side chambers—emphasizing God's perfect order, intentionality, and the profound sanctity inherent in His sacred dwelling place, signaling a future of restored divine presence and unblemished holiness.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Ezekiel 41:5 is situated within the expansive and highly detailed temple vision that commences in Ezekiel 40 and extends through Ezekiel 48. Following the initial measurements of the outer court, gates, and inner court in Ezekiel 40, the prophet is led into the temple building itself in Ezekiel 41. This chapter specifically describes the main sanctuary, including its porch, the Holy Place, and the surrounding side chambers. Verse 5 contributes to this intricate architectural blueprint by detailing the thickness of the temple's primary wall and the width of the contiguous side rooms. The progression of the vision systematically moves from the exterior to the interior, with each verse adding another layer of precise, divinely ordained detail to the sacred complex.
Historical & Cultural Context: The prophet Ezekiel received this profound vision in the 25th year of his exile, roughly 573 BC, some 14 years after the devastating destruction of Solomon's Temple by the Babylonians (Ezekiel 40:1). For the exiled Israelites, the temple's destruction symbolized the loss of God's visible presence among them and a catastrophic blow to their national and religious identity. This elaborate vision, therefore, served as a powerful message of hope, restoration, and a promise of God's future dwelling among His people in a temple far grander and more perfect than any previous structure. The use of the cubit as a unit of measure was standard in ancient Near Eastern architecture, making these detailed specifications comprehensible to Ezekiel's audience, even as the scale and perfection of the vision transcended their earthly experience. The concept of a divinely revealed blueprint for sacred spaces was not new, having precedents in the instructions for the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:9) and Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 6), thereby reinforcing the divine origin and authority of this new, future temple.
Key Themes: This verse, with its emphasis on exact measurements and structural components, powerfully reinforces several central themes woven throughout the temple vision and the broader book of Ezekiel. Firstly, it highlights Divine Precision and Order, showcasing God's meticulous nature and His absolute sovereignty over every aspect of His sacred dwelling. This stands in stark contrast to the defilement and chaos that led to the destruction of the first temple, pointing towards a future of perfect order and holiness. Secondly, the detailed description of the "house" (temple) and its "side chambers" underscores the theme of God's Dwelling Place among His people, a physical manifestation of His desire for restored fellowship and His unwavering commitment to Israel, as promised in passages like Ezekiel 37:27. Finally, the substantial dimensions of the "wall" and the encircling "side chambers" contribute to the theme of Holiness and Separation, creating a distinct and protected space for divine worship, set apart from the profane world, echoing the biblical call for God's people to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 11:44).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

measured (Hebrew, mâdad', H4058): This primitive root properly means "to stretch," and by implication, "to measure (as if by stretching a line)." In Ezekiel 41:5, the act of measuring signifies divine exactitude and intentionality in the temple's construction. It implies a divine architect at work, ensuring every dimension adheres to a precise, pre-determined standard, leaving no room for human error or arbitrary design. This verb underscores the divine origin and perfect blueprint of the visionary temple, emphasizing its adherence to God's flawless specifications.
cubits (Hebrew, ʼammâh', H520): This term refers to a standard ancient unit of linear measure, typically the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, approximately 18-21 inches. Its consistent use throughout Ezekiel's temple vision grounds the extraordinary vision in tangible, comprehensible terms, even while the overall scale is immense. The repetition of "cubits" highlights the meticulous, calculable nature of God's design, emphasizing that the temple's dimensions are not arbitrary but divinely ordained and perfectly suited for its sacred purpose.
side chamber (Hebrew, tsêlâʻ', H6763): This term literally means "rib" (as curved), but architecturally, it refers to a "side" or a "plank/timber," and by extension, a "side chamber." In the context of the temple, these are rooms built against the outer walls of the main sanctuary, providing additional space. Their specific breadth ("four cubits") and their encircling nature ("round about the house on every side") indicate their integral role in the temple's structure, likely for storage, priestly functions, or access, all contributing to the overall functionality, order, and sanctity of the divine dwelling.

Verse Breakdown

"After he measured the wall of the house, six cubits;": This initial clause describes the action of the angelic guide, who precisely measures the thickness of the main temple building's outer wall. The specified "six cubits" (approximately 9-10.5 feet) denotes a remarkably substantial and robust structure, emphasizing the security, strength, and sacred separation of the sanctuary. This thick wall physically delineates the holy space from its surroundings, underscoring its unique, protected, and set-apart status for divine presence.
"and the breadth of every side chamber, four cubits,": Following the measurement of the main wall, the focus shifts to the dimensions of the adjacent side chambers. These rooms, built against the temple wall, are specified to be "four cubits" (approximately 6-7 feet) in width. This detail provides insight into the functional spaces surrounding the core sanctuary, suggesting their purpose in supporting the temple's operations, whether for the storage of sacred vessels, priestly vestments, or for the use of the priests themselves in their service.
"round about the house on every side.": This concluding phrase clarifies the comprehensive and encompassing nature of these side chambers. They are not merely attached to one section but completely encircle the entire main temple building. This continuous encirclement reinforces the idea of a fully integrated, self-contained, and protected sacred complex, where every part contributes to the overall order, sanctity, and security of God's dwelling place. It signifies completeness, thoroughness, and a protective embrace around the central sanctuary.

Literary Devices

Ezekiel 41:5 is rich in Architectural Detail and Symbolism. The overwhelming use of precise measurements and specific structural components like the "wall" and "side chambers," quantified in "cubits," is a prime example of Architectural Detail. This meticulous enumeration serves to make the visionary temple tangible and real to the reader, creating a sense of divine precision and order that reflects God's perfect and unchangeable plan. Beyond the literal description, these details carry profound Symbolism. The substantial thickness of the "six cubit" wall symbolizes the impenetrable holiness, security, and divine strength protecting God's presence, marking a clear boundary between the sacred and the profane. The "four cubit" side chambers, encircling the house, symbolize the comprehensive support system for the sacred space, implying functionality, order, and a complete, all-encompassing separation of the holy from the common. The entire structure, described with such exactitude, functions as a powerful Metaphor for God's restored relationship with His people, a relationship built on unshakeable foundations of holiness, divine order, and secure presence.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Ezekiel 41:5, with its emphasis on precise architectural dimensions, powerfully underscores the profound theological truth that God is a God of order, intentionality, and absolute holiness. The meticulous blueprint for this visionary temple speaks to a divine standard of perfection that transcends human capability, signifying that God's presence is not haphazard but carefully orchestrated, protected, and supremely sacred. This vision, given during a time of national despair and spiritual desolation following the temple's destruction, served as a tangible promise of God's future dwelling among His people, a dwelling characterized by divine design and unblemished sanctity. It highlights the indispensable importance of a properly ordered space for worship and the necessity of separating the sacred from the profane, a principle foundational to biblical understanding of God's character and His interaction with humanity. The exactness of the measurements points to the reliability and faithfulness of God's promises, assuring Israel that His restoration would be as real and precise as this detailed vision.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The intricate details of Ezekiel 41:5, while seemingly mundane architectural specifications, invite us to reflect deeply on the profound nature of God's character and His expectations for our lives. Just as God meticulously designed every cubit and chamber of His visionary temple, He has a precise and purposeful plan for each of us, a divine blueprint for our existence. This verse reminds us that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that His designs are perfect and unyielding. For believers, who are called to be "temples of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19), this implies a profound call to intentionality, purity, and a life built according to divine design. The "thick wall" and "side chambers" encircling the house can prompt us to consider the spiritual boundaries we establish in our lives to protect our inner sanctity and the "spaces" (disciplines, relationships, habits) we cultivate to support and nurture our walk with God. Our lives, like this temple, should be meticulously constructed and ordered to honor His indwelling presence, reflecting His holiness and purpose in all we do.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous detail of God's temple blueprint challenge my own approach to order, intentionality, and precision in my spiritual life and daily walk?
In what practical ways can I, as a "temple of the Holy Spirit," ensure that my life is built with divine precision and set apart for God's holy purposes, rather than yielding to the chaos of the world?
What "walls" or "side chambers" (e.g., spiritual disciplines, moral boundaries, intentional choices) do I need to establish or reinforce to protect the sanctity of God's presence within me and to support my spiritual growth?

FAQ

What is the significance of the specific measurements (six and four cubits) in this verse?

Answer: The specific measurements of "six cubits" for the wall's thickness and "four cubits" for the breadth of the side chambers are profoundly significant for several reasons. Firstly, they underscore the divine precision and meticulousness of God's design. Unlike human constructions which might have approximations or variations, every dimension in this visionary temple is exact, reflecting God's perfect order, absolute control, and unwavering faithfulness to His plan. Secondly, the substantial thickness of the wall (six cubits) symbolizes security, strength, and the sacred separation of the holy space. It creates a robust, impenetrable barrier, emphasizing the inviolable nature of God's dwelling and His commitment to protect His presence from defilement. Thirdly, the "four cubits" for the side chambers, which are described as encircling the house, suggest functionality, comprehensive support, and complete enclosure for the main sanctuary. While the exact symbolic meaning of the numbers six and four themselves is not explicitly stated here, their presence contributes to the overall theme of a divinely ordained, perfectly structured, and supremely holy dwelling place for God, distinct from any human-built structure, as seen in the detailed descriptions throughout Ezekiel 40-48.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Ezekiel 41:5 describes a physical, visionary temple with meticulous architectural details, its ultimate fulfillment and profound spiritual significance are realized in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The precise measurements and divine blueprint of this future temple foreshadow the perfect, unblemished nature of God's ultimate dwelling place, which is not a building made with human hands, but the very person of Jesus Christ. He is the true "temple" where the fullness of God's presence resides, as John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." The thick walls and exact dimensions of Ezekiel's temple symbolize the absolute holiness, security, and divine strength protecting God's presence—qualities perfectly embodied in Christ, who is without sin and perfectly consecrated (Hebrews 4:15). Furthermore, the core concept of God dwelling among His people, which is central to the entire temple vision, finds its ultimate reality in Christ's incarnation and, subsequently, in the Church, which is described as God's spiritual temple, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20-22). The precise order and divine design of the visionary temple point forward to the perfect order and redemptive plan accomplished through Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life, leading humanity into true and unhindered fellowship with God (John 14:6). In Him, the desire for God to dwell "round about the house on every side" is fulfilled, as His presence encompasses, sanctifies, and perfectly protects all who are in Him.

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Commentary on Ezekiel 41 verses 1–11

1 ¶ 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.

2 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.

3 Then went he inward, and measured the post of the door, two cubits; and the door, six cubits; and the breadth of the door, seven cubits.

4 So he measured the length thereof, twenty cubits; and the breadth, twenty cubits, before the temple: and he said unto me, This is the most holy place.

5 After he measured the wall of the house, six cubits; and the breadth of every side chamber, four cubits, round about the house on every side.

6 And the side chambers were three, one over another, and thirty in order; and they entered into the wall which was of the house for the side chambers round about, that they might have hold, but they had not hold in the wall of the house.

7 And there was an enlarging, and a winding about still upward to the side chambers: for the winding about of the house went still upward round about the house: therefore the breadth of the house was still upward, and so increased from the lowest chamber to the highest by the midst.

8 I saw also the height of the house round about: the foundations of the side chambers were a full reed of six great cubits.

9 The thickness of the wall, which was for the side chamber without, was five cubits: and that which was left was the place of the side chambers that were within.

10 And between the chambers was the wideness of twenty cubits round about the house on every side.

11 And the doors of the side chambers were toward the place that was left, one door toward the north, and another door toward the south: and the breadth of the place that was left was five cubits round about.

We are still attending a prophet that is under the guidance of an angel, and therefore attend with reverence, though we are often at a loss to know both what this is and what it is to us. Observe here, 1. After the prophet had observed the courts he was at length brought to the temple, Eze 41:1. If we diligently attend to the instructions given us in the plainer parts of religion, and profit by them, we shall be led further into an acquaintance with the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. Those that are willing to dwell in God's courts shall at length be brought into his temple. Ezekiel was himself a priest, but by the iniquity and calamity of the times was cut short of his birthright privilege of ministering in the temple; but God makes up the loss to him by introducing him into this prophetical, evangelical, celestial temple, and employing him to transmit a description of it to the church, in which he was dignified above all the rest of his order. 2. When our Lord Jesus spoke of the destroying of this temple, which his hearers understood of this second temple of Jerusalem, he spoke of the temple of his body (Joh 2:19, Joh 2:21); and with good reason might he speak so ambiguously when Ezekiel's vision had a joint respect to them both together, including also his mystical body the church, which is called the house of God (Ti1 3:15), and all the members of that body, which are living temples, in which the Spirit dwells. 3. The very posts of this temple, the door-posts, were as far one from the other, and consequently the door was as wide, as the whole breadth of the tabernacle of Moses (Eze 41:1), namely, twelve cubits, Exo 26:16, Exo 26:22, Exo 26:25. In comparison with what had been under the law we may say, Wide is the gate which leads into the church, the ceremonial law, that wall of partition which had so much straitened the gate, being taken down. 4. The most holy place was an exact square, twenty cubits each way, Eze 41:4. For the new Jerusalem is exactly square (Rev 21:16), denoting its stability; for we look for a city that cannot be moved. 5. The upper stories were larger than the lower, Eze 41:7. The walls of the temple were six cubits thick at the bottom, five in the middle story, and four in the highest, which gave room to enlarge the chambers the higher they went; but care was taken that the timber might have fast hold (though God builds high, he builds firmly), yet so as not to weaken one part for the strengthening of another; they had hold, but not in the wall of the house. By this spreading gradually, the side-chambers that were on the height of the house (in the uppermost story of all) were six cubits, whereas the lowest were but four; they gained a cubit every story. The higher we build up ourselves in our most holy faith the more should our hearts, those living temples, be enlarged.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–11. Public domain.

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JeromeAD 420

Commentary on Ezekiel

(Vers. 5 seqq.) And the wall of the house was measured six cubits, and the width of each side was four cubits all around the house. The sides were side by side, thirty-three on each side, and there were projections that entered through the wall of the house on the sides all around, in order to contain them and not touch the wall of the temple. And there was a ascending courtyard: going up through a spiral staircase and leading to the upper room of the temple in a circular path. Therefore, the temple was broader in the higher parts, and thus one ascended from the lower parts to the higher in the middle, and from the middle to the narrow, and to Thrael. However, what is placed in the Septuagint, 'And from the middle to the narrow,' that is, to the three balconies, and to Thrael, is not found in Hebrew. For Thrael also (which I do not know what it signifies; since it is not found in Hebrew) is read by those of Urani (), which both we and others have translated, and I have seen, so that the order of the testimony may be followed.

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Ezekiel 42:3
Over against the twenty cubits which were for the inner court, and over against the pavement which was for the utter court, was gallery against gallery in three stories.
Ezekiel 42:14
When the priests enter therein, then shall they not go out of the holy place into the utter court, but there they shall lay their garments wherein they minister; for they are holy; and shall put on other garments, and shall approach to those things which are for the people.
1 Kings 6:5
And against the wall of the house he built chambers round about, against the walls of the house round about, both of the temple and of the oracle: and he made chambers round about:
1 Kings 6:6
The nethermost chamber was five cubits broad, and the middle was six cubits broad, and the third was seven cubits broad: for without in the wall of the house he made narrowed rests round about, that the beams should not be fastened in the walls of the house.
Ezekiel 41:6
And the side chambers were three, one over another, and thirty in order; and they entered into the wall which was of the house for the side chambers round about, that they might have hold, but they had not hold in the wall of the house.
Ezekiel 41:9
The thickness of the wall, which was for the side chamber without, was five cubits: and that which was left was the place of the side chambers that were within.