The Hebrew word gizrâh, represented by H1508, primarily denotes a separate place or an inclosure. Its definition also includes the concepts of a figure or person, and polishing. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses, with its meaning varying between a literal architectural space and a figurative quality of refinement.
The word H1508 is used almost exclusively in the book of Ezekiel to describe a specific architectural feature in the visionary temple, termed the separate place. This area is precisely measured and defined in relation to the main temple building and its courts Ezekiel 41:12-13. It is designated as a holy H6918 space where priests H3548 would handle the most holy things H6944, including the meat offering H4503, sin offering H2403, and trespass offering H817 Ezekiel 42:13. In a distinct usage, Lamentations 4:7 employs H1508 figuratively as polishing, describing the radiant appearance of the Nazarites H5139, whose beauty was like sapphire H5601.
Several related words help clarify the context of H1508:
- H1146 binyân (building): This word for a structure or edifice is consistently used in Ezekiel to describe the buildings situated near or opposite the separate place (Ezekiel 41:12, Ezekiel 42:1).
- H1004 bayith (house): The separate place is presented as a component of the larger temple house in Ezekiel's vision, with its dimensions contributing to the total measurement of the sacred structure Ezekiel 41:13-14.
- H119 ʼâdam (to be...red (ruddy)): Used in Lamentations 4:7 to describe the Nazarites' ruddy body, it appears alongside polishing H1508 to paint a picture of physical vibrancy and purity.
- H2691 châtsêr (court): The separate place is located in proximity to the temple court, with chambers in the court wall built over against it Ezekiel 42:10.
The significance of H1508 is revealed in its application to both sacred spaces and consecrated people.
- Defining Sacred Space: The primary use of H1508 as a "separate place" emphasizes the principle of setting apart physical areas for holy functions. It was an enclosed, measured area reserved for priests H3548 approaching the LORD H3068, underscoring a clear distinction between the holy and the profane Ezekiel 42:13.
- Figurative Refinement: In Lamentations, the word's translation as "polishing" associates separation with beauty and value. The consecrated Nazarites H5139 are described with a gem-like quality, suggesting that their devotion resulted in a visible, precious purity Lamentations 4:7.
- Divine Order: The detailed measurements associated with the "separate place," such as its length of ninety H8673 cubits H520 and breadth of seventy H7657 cubits H520, reflect a divine order and intentionality in the layout of the holy temple Ezekiel 41:12.
In summary, H1508 conveys the core idea of separation. In Ezekiel, it is a literal, architectural separate place, a holy enclosure central to the temple's function. In Lamentations, it takes on the figurative meaning of polishing, representing the refined and valuable appearance of those set apart for God. The word illustrates how the concept of separation is tied to both holiness in a designated space and the consecrated purity of individuals.
TRV