What is the significance of the "ten cubits" and "one cubit" measurements in Ezekiel 42:4?

The specific measurements in Ezekiel 42:4—a "walk of ten cubits breadth" and "a way of one cubit"—are highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, they underscore the divine origin and precision of the temple vision. God is presented as an architect of perfect order, where every dimension is exact and purposeful. The "ten cubits" likely describes a substantial, accessible passageway or open area before the chambers, facilitating movement. The "one cubit way," however, is notably narrow and has been interpreted in various ways: it could be a narrow threshold, a precise boundary marker, or a restricted entry point. This stark contrast in width might symbolize the transition from more public or general areas to more sacred or restricted priestly chambers, emphasizing the increasing holiness and the careful approach required as one moves deeper into God's presence. Such details reinforce the theme of separation between the holy and the common, which is vital throughout the temple vision and the broader biblical narrative (cf. Leviticus 10:10).

Why are the doors of the chambers described as facing "toward the north"?

The northward orientation of the doors in Ezekiel 42:4 is another example of the meticulous precision in the temple blueprint. In ancient Near Eastern cosmology, the north was sometimes associated with the dwelling place of deity or with the direction from which divine judgment or glory might come (cf. Psalm 48:2). While the exact theological significance of the north orientation for these specific chambers is not explicitly stated, it contributes to the overall symbolic geography of the temple. It suggests a deliberate design choice that integrates these chambers into the sacred spatial logic of the entire complex. This detail, like all others in the vision, points to the comprehensive and divinely ordained nature of God's future dwelling, where every element serves a purpose in establishing a perfectly ordered and holy environment for His presence.

42:3 42:3

Ezekiel 42:4

42:5 42:5

Bible Versions

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

And before {H6440} the chambers {H3957} was a walk {H4109} of ten {H6235} cubits {H520} breadth {H7341} inward {H6442}, a way {H1870} of one {H259} cubit {H520}; and their doors {H6607} toward the north {H6828}.

In front of the [block of] rooms was a walkway seventeen-and-a-half feet wide and a path twenty-one inches [wide]; their doors faced north.

In front of the chambers was an inner walkway ten cubits wide and a hundred cubits long. Their doors were on the north.

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

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.

Verse Lookup

Cross-References

Ezekiel 46:19

¶ After he brought me through the entry, which [was] at the side of the gate, into the holy chambers of the priests, which looked toward the north: and, behold, there [was] a place on the two sides westward.
Matthew 7:14

Because strait [is] the gate, and narrow [is] the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Luke 13:24

Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Bible Versions

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