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.
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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.
Context
Ezekiel 42:4 is an intricate part of the prophet Ezekiel's grand vision of a future temple, meticulously detailed from Ezekiel chapter 40 through chapter 48. This section specifically describes the architectural layout of the chambers surrounding the inner court, which were likely designated for priestly use, storage of offerings, or other sacred functions within the temple complex. Following prophecies of judgment and exile, this detailed vision served as a profound message of hope and restoration, emphasizing God's faithfulness and His renewed presence among His people in the future.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "a way of one cubit" (וְדֶרֶךְ אַחַת אַמָּה, v'derekh achat amma) is particularly noteworthy. While the "walk of ten cubits breadth inward" clearly indicates a substantial passageway or open area, the "one cubit way" is interpreted in various ways:
This linguistic nuance highlights the highly technical and exact nature of Ezekiel's prophetic architectural descriptions, emphasizing the divine blueprint's unparalleled accuracy.
Practical Application and Reflection
While Ezekiel's temple vision holds significant prophetic weight, its detailed descriptions offer spiritual insights for believers today: