Ezekiel 43:16

And the altar [shall be] twelve [cubits] long, twelve broad, square in the four squares thereof.

And the altar {H741} shall be twelve {H8147}{H6240} cubits long {H753}, twelve {H8147}{H6240} broad {H7341}, square {H7251} in the four {H702} squares {H7253} thereof.

The hearth is a square twenty-one feet on each of its four sides.

The altar hearth shall be square at its four corners, twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide.

And the altar hearth shall be twelve cubits long by twelve broad, square in the four sides thereof.

Commentary

Ezekiel 43:16 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's detailed vision of a new temple, which begins in Ezekiel chapter 40. This elaborate architectural blueprint was given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile, offering a powerful message of hope, restoration, and the future dwelling of God's glory among His people. Specifically, this verse describes a key component of the temple complex: the great altar of burnt offering.

Context

The chapters immediately preceding and following Ezekiel 43:16 (Ezekiel 43:13-17) provide a meticulous description of the altar's dimensions and structure, emphasizing its holiness and the precise regulations for its use in worship. This detailed account underscores the importance of proper worship and the sacredness of God's presence within the temple, setting the stage for future divine ordinances.

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Order: The specific measurements—"twelve cubits long, twelve broad, square in the four squares thereof"—highlight God's absolute precision and the importance of order in His divine plans and worship. This meticulousness reflects the perfect, unchangeable nature of God and the sanctity of His dwelling place.
  • Holiness of Worship: The altar was the central place for sacrifices, symbolizing atonement, purification, and communion with God. Its exact dimensions and perfect square shape underscore its sacred purpose and the absolute purity required for approaching a holy God. This concept of holiness is central to God's character and His relationship with humanity, echoing themes found in Leviticus 11:44.
  • Future Hope and Restoration: For the exiled Israelites, this vision of a perfectly designed temple and altar was a profound symbol of future restoration. It promised a renewed covenant relationship with God and the re-establishment of true, unblemished worship, signaling an end to their suffering and a return to divine favor.

Linguistic Insights

The term "cubit" (Hebrew: 'ammah) refers to an ancient unit of measurement, typically from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger (approximately 18-21 inches). The consistent use of this unit throughout Ezekiel's temple vision underscores the divine blueprint's exactness.

The phrase "square in the four squares thereof" emphasizes the altar's perfect symmetry and stability from every angle. This repetition reinforces its robust and unwavering design, signifying its enduring purpose and the steadfastness of God's worship.

Practical Application

While the physical temple and its sacrificial system have been fulfilled and superseded by the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross (as seen in Hebrews 9:26), the principles conveyed by Ezekiel's vision remain highly relevant. This verse reminds believers of the importance of approaching God with reverence, order, and a deep recognition of His holiness.

It encourages us to understand that our worship today, though no longer tied to a physical altar, should still be intentional, pure, and aligned with God's revealed will. The precision in the altar's design can inspire us to offer our "spiritual sacrifices" (1 Peter 2:5)—our lives, praise, and service—with diligence, devotion, and a commitment to divine order.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 27:1

    ¶ And thou shalt make an altar [of] shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof [shall be] three cubits.

  • Exodus 38:1

    ¶ And he made the altar of burnt offering [of] shittim wood: five cubits [was] the length thereof, and five cubits the breadth thereof; [it was] foursquare; and three cubits the height thereof.

  • Exodus 38:2

    And he made the horns thereof on the four corners of it; the horns thereof were of the same: and he overlaid it with brass.

  • Ezra 3:3

    And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning and evening.

  • 2 Chronicles 4:1

    ¶ Moreover he made an altar of brass, twenty cubits the length thereof, and twenty cubits the breadth thereof, and ten cubits the height thereof.
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