Ezekiel 42:11

And the way before them [was] like the appearance of the chambers which [were] toward the north, as long as they, [and] as broad as they: and all their goings out [were] both according to their fashions, and according to their doors.

And the way {H1870} before {H6440} them was like the appearance {H4758} of the chambers {H3957} which were toward {H1870} the north {H6828}, as long as {H753} they, and as broad as {H3651}{H7341} they: and all their goings out {H4161} were both according to their fashions {H4941}, and according to their doors {H6607}.

with a passageway in front of them, similar to the rooms on the north. They were the same length and width and had similarly made exits and entrances.

with a passageway in front of them, just like the chambers that were on the north. They had the same length and width, with similar exits and dimensions.

And the way before them was like the appearance of the way of the chambers which were toward the north; according to their length so was their breadth: and all their egresses were both according to their fashions, and according to their doors.

Ezekiel 42:11 KJV continues the detailed architectural description of the visionary temple, focusing on the precise dimensions and arrangements of its various chambers.

Context

This verse is part of an extensive vision given to the prophet Ezekiel, beginning in Ezekiel chapter 40, detailing a magnificent future temple. Given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, this vision served as a powerful message of hope and restoration for the exiled Israelites, promising God's renewed presence among His people. Ezekiel 42 specifically describes the chambers surrounding the temple courts, likely designated for priests or temple functionaries. Verse 11 emphasizes the symmetrical nature of these structures, noting that the "way before them" (referring to the southern chambers) was exactly "like the appearance of the chambers which were toward the north," indicating identical length, breadth, and exit designs. This meticulous detail underscores the divine origin and perfect order of this future sanctuary, offering a glimpse into God's ultimate plan for His dwelling place.

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Order: The repeated emphasis on exact measurements and identical structures highlights God's perfect design and meticulous planning for His sacred space. Every aspect is divinely ordained, leaving no room for human improvisation.
  • Symmetry and Uniformity: The description of the southern chambers mirroring the northern ones underscores a theme of balance and harmony within God's ultimate dwelling place. This uniformity likely symbolizes the unchanging nature of God and the consistent principles governing His presence.
  • Future Hope and Restoration: For a people in exile, a vision of such a magnificent, perfectly ordered temple offered profound comfort and assurance of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and the eventual restoration of His dwelling among them.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "according to their fashions" translates the Hebrew word mishpatim (מִשְׁפָּטִים), which typically means "judgments" or "ordinances." In this architectural context, it refers to the prescribed patterns, customary arrangements, or detailed specifications for the design and function of the chambers and their exits. This reinforces the idea that every element of this visionary temple is not arbitrary but built according to a divine blueprint, emphasizing God's established order and consistency.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 42:11, while describing a literal future temple, also offers spiritual insights for believers today:

  • God's Attention to Detail: This verse reminds us that God is a God of order and precision. He cares about the details, not just the grand plan. This can encourage us to approach our lives, worship, and service with diligence and intentionality, knowing that God values our efforts in alignment with His design.
  • The Importance of Structure and Purpose: Just as the temple had specific chambers for specific purposes, our lives and communities should reflect order and purpose, aligning with God's will. This speaks to the call for believers to live orderly lives that bring glory to God.
  • Hope in God's Promises: The vision of this temple, so perfectly designed, served as a tangible promise of God's future presence and restoration. For us, it reinforces the certainty of God's ultimate plan for redemption and a new creation, where God will dwell with humanity in perfect harmony.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 42:4

    And before the chambers [was] a walk of ten cubits breadth inward, a way of one cubit; and their doors toward the north.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back