Ezekiel 42:13

KJV

Then said he unto me, The north chambers [and] the south chambers, which [are] before the separate place, they [be] holy chambers, where the priests that approach unto the LORD shall eat the most holy things: there shall they lay the most holy things, and the meat offering, and the sin offering, and the trespass offering; for the place [is] holy.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} he unto me, The north {H6828} chambers {H3957} and the south {H1864} chambers {H3957}, which are before {H6440} the separate place {H1508}, they be holy {H6944} chambers {H3957}, where the priests {H3548} that approach {H7138} unto the LORD {H3068} shall eat {H398} the most {H6944} holy things {H6944}: there shall they lay {H3240} the most {H6944} holy things {H6944}, and the meat offering {H4503}, and the sin offering {H2403}, and the trespass offering {H817}; for the place {H4725} is holy {H6918}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he said to me, "The north and south [blocks of] rooms in front of the separated yard are the holy rooms where the cohanim who approach ADONAI will eat the especially holy things. This is where they will put the especially holy things - the grain offerings, sin offerings and guilt offerings; for the place is holy.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the man said to me, “The north and south chambers facing the temple courtyard are the holy chambers where the priests who approach the LORD will eat the most holy offerings. There they will place the most holy offerings—the grain offerings, the sin offerings, and the guilt offerings—for the place is holy.

American Standard Version

Then said he unto me, The north chambers and the south chambers, which are before the separate place, they are the holy chambers, where the priests that are near unto Jehovah shall eat the most holy things: there shall they lay the most holy things, and the meal-offering, and the sin-offering, and the trespass-offering; for the place is holy.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 42:13 details the sacred function of specific chambers within the visionary temple, designated for the priests to consume the most holy portions of sacrifices and to store various offerings. These north and south chambers, situated before the separate holy place, are explicitly declared holy, underscoring the absolute sanctity required for all aspects of worship and priestly service in the restored temple. The verse highlights God's meticulous instructions for purity, order, and provision within His dwelling.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 42:13 is embedded within the prophet's extensive vision of a new temple, spanning chapters 40-48. This particular verse focuses on the precise function of the chambers located on the north and south sides of the temple complex, specifically those adjacent to the "separate place" (likely referring to the inner court or the area immediately surrounding the sanctuary). Following the detailed architectural descriptions of the temple's outer and inner courts, gates, and various rooms in chapters [40](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40 - The Temple Vision Begins") and [41](/ezekiel/41 "Ezekiel 41 - Temple Dimensions Detailed"), chapter [42](/ezekiel/42 "Ezekiel 42 - Priestly Chambers and Holy Areas") elaborates on the chambers for the priests, emphasizing their sacred purpose. The verses immediately preceding Ezekiel 42:13 describe the dimensions and layout of these chambers, while the verses that follow continue to delineate the boundaries and purpose of the holy areas, culminating in the departure of the glory of the Lord from the temple in [Ezekiel 43](/ezekiel/43 "Ezekiel 43 - The Glory of the Lord Returns"). This meticulous attention to detail underscores the divine blueprint for a renewed covenant relationship and pure worship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of the new temple was given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-571 BC), a period of profound national despair for Israel. The first temple had been destroyed, Jerusalem lay in ruins, and the people were far from their homeland and their traditional center of worship. In this context, Ezekiel's vision served as a powerful message of hope, restoration, and future glory, promising a time when God would dwell among His people once more in a purified sanctuary. The meticulous instructions for the temple's layout and the specific functions of its chambers, including the consumption and storage of offerings, drew heavily from the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Leviticus 6:16-18](/leviticus/6-16 "Leviticus 6:16-18 - Priestly Portions of Offerings")), which prescribed how priests were to handle and consume portions of various sacrifices. This vision highlighted a renewed commitment to the sanctity and order of worship, contrasting sharply with the defilement and idolatry that had led to the destruction of the first temple, as detailed in earlier chapters like [Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel 8 - Abominations in the Temple").

* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 42:13 significantly contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Ezekiel. First, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Divine Holiness and Separation**, emphasizing that God's presence demands absolute purity and meticulous separation of the sacred from the common. The repeated declaration that "the place is holy" underscores this. Second, the verse highlights **Priestly Duties and Provision**, detailing the specific responsibilities of the priests in handling and consuming the most sacred offerings, while also demonstrating God's provision for their sustenance through these dedicated portions. This echoes the provisions for the Levitical priesthood found in [Numbers 18:8-10](/numbers/18-8 "Numbers 18:8-10 - Priestly Dues"). Third, it speaks to the theme of **Restoration and Future Glory**, as the detailed, perfect temple vision offers a blueprint for Israel's spiritual renewal and a return to proper worship, a stark contrast to the spiritual decay described in [Ezekiel 22](/ezekiel/22 "Ezekiel 22 - Sins of Jerusalem"). Finally, the precise instructions for the chambers and offerings underscore the theme of **Order and Purity in Worship**, demonstrating God's demand for meticulous adherence to His commands in all aspects of approaching Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **separate place (Hebrew, _gizrâh'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to cut out" or "to separate," refers to a distinct, enclosed area. In Ezekiel's temple vision, it denotes a highly restricted and sacred zone, emphasizing the physical and spiritual demarcation between the holy and the common. Its placement before this "separate place" highlights the proximity of these chambers to the most sacred parts of the temple, reinforcing their own elevated sanctity.
* **holy (Hebrew, _qôdesh'_):** Appearing multiple times in the verse ("holy chambers," "most holy things," "place is holy"), this word signifies that which is set apart for God's exclusive use, consecrated, and inviolable. Its repetition serves as an intensifier, underscoring the supreme sanctity of the chambers, the offerings, and the entire temple environment. The "most holy things" (Hebrew: _qôdesh qôdeshîm_) denotes the highest degree of sanctity, reserved for God alone and handled with extreme reverence.
* **eat (Hebrew, _ʼâkal'_):** This primitive root signifies consumption, whether literally or figuratively. In the context of priestly duties, it refers to the ritual consumption of portions of the sacrifices, which served as a means of sustenance for the priests and symbolized their participation in the covenant and their communion with God. The act of eating these "most holy things" within the "holy chambers" underscores the sacredness of the priestly office and their unique access to God's provisions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said he unto me, The north chambers and the south chambers, which are before the separate place, they be holy chambers":** This opening clause identifies the specific location and nature of the rooms. The "he" refers to the angelic guide accompanying Ezekiel through the temple vision. The "north chambers" and "south chambers" are symmetrical structures. Their position "before the separate place" (likely the inner sanctuary or a highly restricted area) immediately establishes their profound sanctity and proximity to God's direct presence. The declaration "they be holy chambers" is foundational, setting the tone for their designated use.
* **"where the priests that approach unto the LORD shall eat the most holy things":** This clause specifies the primary sacred function of these chambers. Only "the priests that approach unto the LORD" (those ritually pure and authorized for service) are permitted to enter and perform this act. The "most holy things" refers to specific portions of certain sacrifices (e.g., sin offerings, trespass offerings, grain offerings) that were considered supremely sacred and could only be consumed by the priests within the holy precincts of the temple, not in their homes or common areas. This highlights the unique privilege and responsibility of the priesthood.
* **"there shall they lay the most holy things, and the meat offering, and the sin offering, and the trespass offering; for the place is holy":** This final clause details a secondary function: the storage of the unconsumed portions of the "most holy things" and specific offerings. The "meat offering" (more accurately, grain or meal offering), "sin offering," and "trespass offering" are explicitly named as examples of sacrifices whose "most holy" portions were to be handled and stored in these chambers. The concluding declaration, "for the place is holy," serves as both a summation and a justification for all the preceding instructions, reiterating the absolute sanctity that governs every aspect of the temple and its operations.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices. **Repetition** is prominent, particularly with the word "holy" (_qôdesh_). It appears four times in the verse ("holy chambers," "most holy things" [twice], "place is holy"), creating an emphatic rhythm that underscores the pervasive and absolute sanctity of the temple environment and everything associated with God's worship. This repetition serves to impress upon the reader the extreme purity and separation required. **Symbolism** is also central, as the entire visionary temple, including these chambers, functions as a powerful symbol of God's renewed covenant with Israel, His desire for pure worship, and His restored presence among His people. The physical separation and sacred designation of these chambers symbolize the spiritual separation and consecration required of those who serve God. Furthermore, the meticulous detail in describing the chambers and their function can be seen as an example of **Precision**, reflecting the divine order and the exactness with which God expects His people to approach Him and conduct worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 42:13 profoundly illustrates the biblical principle of divine holiness and humanity's need to approach God with reverence and according to His prescribed ways. The meticulous instructions for the chambers and the handling of "most holy things" underscore that God's presence is not to be trifled with; it demands separation, purity, and adherence to divine protocol. This principle, though expressed through the Old Testament temple system, points to the unchanging character of God and the seriousness of worship. It also highlights God's faithful provision for His servants, as the priests were sustained by these holy portions, emphasizing that those dedicated to God's service are cared for by Him.

* [Leviticus 10:17](/leviticus/10-17 "Leviticus 10:17 - Priestly Consumption of Holy Offerings")
* [Numbers 18:9-10](/numbers/18-9 "Numbers 18:9-10 - The Most Holy Offerings for Priests")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - The Earthly Sanctuary and its Furnishings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical temple described by Ezekiel awaits its ultimate fulfillment, the spiritual principles embedded in Ezekiel 42:13 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. As those who are called a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), we are reminded of the call to holiness in our own lives, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Our Bodies are Temples")). Just as the chambers were set apart, we are to be set apart for God's purposes, living lives consecrated to Him. This verse also teaches us about the reverence due to God in our worship and service. Though we now have direct access to God through Christ, we are still to approach Him with awe and respect, understanding the sacredness of our communion with Him. Our "spiritual sacrifices"—our praise, our service, our very lives ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - A Living Sacrifice"))—are to be offered with purity and dedication, recognizing that all we do for the Lord is holy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "holy chambers" challenge my understanding of sacred space and time in my own life?**
* **In what ways can I, as a believer, "eat the most holy things" and "lay the most holy things" in my daily walk with God?**
* **What aspects of my worship or service might need to be re-evaluated in light of God's demand for meticulous purity and reverence?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "north chambers" and "south chambers" being designated as "holy chambers"?**

Answer: The designation of these specific chambers as "holy chambers" emphasizes their consecrated nature and exclusive purpose within the visionary temple. Their location, "before the separate place" (likely referring to the inner sanctuary or a highly sacred area), indicates their proximity to God's direct presence, thereby elevating their own sanctity. This meticulous detail underscores the absolute necessity of purity and separation in all areas associated with divine worship. These chambers were not for common use but were set apart for the specific, sacred activities of the priests, highlighting the divine order and holiness required in the restored temple.

**What are "the most holy things" that the priests were to eat and lay there?**

Answer: "The most holy things" (Hebrew: _qôdesh qôdeshîm_) refers to specific portions of certain sacrifices that were considered supremely sacred and could only be consumed by the priests within the holy precincts of the temple. These typically included portions of the sin offering, trespass offering, grain offering, and parts of the peace offering (e.g., [Leviticus 6:16-18](/leviticus/6-16 "Leviticus 6:16-18 - Priestly Portions of Offerings")). These were distinct from "holy things" which could be eaten by priests and their families in a clean place, or "common things" which anyone could eat. The act of eating these portions was both a means of sustenance for the priests and a ritual act symbolizing their participation in the covenant and their communion with God. Laying them there refers to the storage of the unconsumed portions before they were ritually disposed of or consumed by the priests.

**How does this verse about a visionary temple relate to believers today?**

Answer: While Ezekiel's temple vision is a complex prophecy with various interpretations regarding its future fulfillment, the principles it conveys are timeless and spiritually applicable. For believers today, who are called a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")) and whose bodies are considered temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Our Bodies, Temples of the Spirit")), this verse emphasizes the call to holiness, reverence in approaching God, and the sacredness of our service. Just as the chambers were set apart for God's purposes, believers are called to live lives consecrated to Him, offering "spiritual sacrifices" of worship and service ([Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Sacrifices of Praise and Good Deeds")) with purity and dedication.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 42:13, with its emphasis on holy chambers, priestly consumption of "most holy things," and the pervasive sanctity of the temple, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. While the Old Testament temple system meticulously prescribed physical spaces and ritual sacrifices, these were but shadows pointing to the ultimate reality found in Jesus Christ. He is the true and perfect [High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who entered not into man-made holy chambers, but into the very presence of God in heaven, through the [sacrifice of His own body](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Sacrifice"). The "most holy things" of the Old Covenant, which required specific handling and consumption by priests, are fulfilled in Christ, who is Himself the ultimate "most holy thing"—the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Through His once-for-all sacrifice, He has made us, His followers, a "holy priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - A Holy Priesthood")) with direct access to God's presence, no longer confined to physical chambers but able to draw near with confidence through His blood ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")). Thus, the holiness, provision, and priestly service foreshadowed in Ezekiel's vision are fully realized and perfected in Christ, making every believer a participant in a spiritual reality far surpassing the earthly temple.

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

Leviticus 7:6

Every male among the priests shall eat thereof: it shall be eaten in the holy place: it [is] most holy.

Leviticus 10:17

Wherefore have ye not eaten the sin offering in the holy place, seeing it [is] most holy, and [God] hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation, to make atonement for them before the LORD?

Ezekiel 40:46

And the chamber whose prospect [is] toward the north [is] for the priests, the keepers of the charge of the altar: these [are] the sons of Zadok among the sons of Levi, which come near to the LORD to minister unto him.

Numbers 18:9

This shall be thine of the most holy things, [reserved] from the fire: every oblation of theirs, every meat offering of theirs, and every sin offering of theirs, and every trespass offering of theirs, which they shall render unto me, [shall be] most holy for thee and for thy sons.

Numbers 18:10

In the most holy [place] shalt thou eat it; every male shall eat it: it shall be holy unto thee.

Leviticus 6:29

All the males among the priests shall eat thereof: it [is] most holy.

Exodus 29:31

And thou shalt take the ram of the consecration, and seethe his flesh in the holy place.