Then he brought me forth into the utter court, and caused me to pass by the four corners of the court; and, behold, in every corner of the court [there was] a court.
Then he brought me forth {H3318} into the utter {H2435} court {H2691}, and caused me to pass by {H5674} the four {H702} corners {H4740} of the court {H2691}; and, behold, in every {H4740} corner {H4740} of the court {H2691}{H2691} there was a court {H2691}.
He took me into the outer courtyard and had me pass by the four corners of the courtyard, and there in each corner of the courtyard was another courtyard -
Then he brought me into the outer court and led me around to its four corners, and I saw a separate court in each of its corners.
Then he brought me forth into the outer court, and caused me to pass by the four corners of the court; and, behold, in every corner of the court there was a court.
No cross-references found for this verse.
Ezekiel 46:21 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's extensive vision of a new temple, a detailed blueprint for a future sanctuary and its associated structures. This specific verse focuses on a particular feature within the outer court of this visionary temple.
Context of Ezekiel 46:21
This verse is situated within chapters 40-48 of the Book of Ezekiel, which provide a meticulous and highly symbolic description of a new temple, its courts, gates, and the ordinances for its service. After detailing the inner sanctuary and various chambers, the angelic guide leads Ezekiel through the vast outer court. The vision emphasizes the precise measurements and functions of every part of this divine edifice, highlighting God's meticulous design for worship and His presence. Ezekiel 46:21 specifically describes the discovery of smaller, distinct courts located in each of the four corners of this large outer court, a detail that foreshadows their specific purpose revealed shortly thereafter.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "court" used here is chatser (חָצֵר), which generally refers to an enclosed area, an open space, or a courtyard. Its repetition emphasizes the distinct nature of these four areas within the larger "utter court." The KJV's insertion of "[there was]" helps clarify that each corner itself contained a separate, smaller court, underscoring the unique design feature.
Related Scriptures
To fully grasp the significance of these corner courts, it is essential to look ahead to Ezekiel 46:24, which explicitly states their function: "Then said he unto me, These are the places of them that boil the sacrifice, where the ministers of the house shall boil the sacrifice of the people." This reveals that these were specialized kitchens for the priests to prepare the portions of the sacrifices that were to be eaten by the worshippers and the priests themselves. This separation prevented the cooking of holy things from defiling other areas of the temple, reinforcing the concept of holiness in consumption.
Reflection and Application
Ezekiel 46:21, along with its explanation, reminds us that God's plan is always detailed and purposeful. Even seemingly minor architectural features in a visionary temple serve a significant role in maintaining order and holiness. For believers today, this can be a call to consider the order and intentionality in our own spiritual lives and worship. Just as the temple had specific places for specific functions, our lives can reflect a similar thoughtfulness in how we approach our walk with God, our service, and our preparation for engaging with the sacred. It underscores the importance of practical, orderly preparation in all aspects of our service to God, reflecting His own meticulous nature.