feminine of גֶּזֶר; the figure or person (as if cut out); also an inclosure (as separated); polishing, separate place.
Transliteration:gizrâh
Pronunciation:ghiz-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term גִּזְרָה (gizrâh, `{{H1508}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the root גָּזַר (gāzar, `{{H1504}}`), which primarily means "to cut," "to cut off," or "to divide." This etymological root informs the dual semantic range of *gizrâh*.
Firstly, it refers to "the figure" or "person (as if cut out)," emphasizing a precise form, shape, or design. This conveys the idea of something being distinctly shaped or delineated, much like an object carefully cut from a larger piece of material. It speaks to a defined structure or a particular outline.
Secondly, *gizrâh* can denote "an inclosure (as separated)" or a "separate place." This meaning highlights the act of setting something apart, creating a distinct boundary, or defining a specific, delimited area. It implies separation for a particular purpose or to establish a unique status.
The lesser-attested nuance of "polishing" might be understood in relation to the refinement or finishing of a "cut out" object, suggesting a perfected or highly specific form. Both primary senses, however, revolve around the concept of precise definition, whether of form or space, achieved through a process of cutting or separation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term גִּזְרָה (gizrâh, `{{H1508}}`) appears exclusively within the book of Ezekiel, specifically in the visionary descriptions of the new temple. Its limited but significant usage underscores its specialized meaning within the context of divine revelation concerning sacred space.
In [[Ezekiel 41:15]], the word is used in conjunction with the temple's architectural details, referring to "the form" or "the figure" of the outer court and its various structures. Here, *gizrâh* describes the precise, divinely ordained blueprint or design of the temple complex, emphasizing its exact dimensions and layout as revealed to the prophet. Similarly, in [[Ezekiel 43:11]], the prophet is commanded to show the house of Israel "the form of the house, and the fashion thereof," where "form" again translates *gizrâh*. This usage reinforces the idea of a meticulous, divinely authored architectural plan that is to be faithfully replicated or understood.
The other primary usage of *gizrâh* is found in [[Ezekiel 42:12]] and [[Ezekiel 43:12]]. In [[Ezekiel 42:12]], it refers to a "separate place" or "enclosure" within the temple complex, likely indicating a distinct, delimited area for specific functions or access. This aligns with the meaning of a space "cut out" or set apart. Most notably, [[Ezekiel 43:12]] declares, "This is the law of the house: Upon the top of the mountain the whole limit thereof round about shall be most holy. Behold, this is the law of the house." Here, *gizrâh* is rendered as "limit" or "border," signifying the sacred boundary that encircles the entire temple area, establishing it as "most holy." This usage powerfully conveys the idea of a space divinely separated and consecrated.
Across these occurrences, *gizrâh* consistently points to either the precise, "cut-out" form of the temple's design or the "separated," holy boundaries that define its sacredness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of גִּזְרָה (gizrâh, `{{H1508}}`) is deeply connected to its verbal root גָּזַר (gāzar, `{{H1504}}`), "to cut off," "to divide," or "to decide." This root is used in various contexts, from cutting wood to making a covenant (cutting a covenant, as in dividing animals). The noun גֶּזֶר (gezer, `{{H1504}}` as a noun) refers to a "piece" or "part cut off."
Concepts related to *gizrâh* include:
* **Separation and Consecration:** The idea of being "cut off" or "set apart" is fundamental to holiness (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh, `{{H6944}}`). The temple, as a *gizrâh* or "separate place," embodies this principle.
* **Divine Blueprint/Design:** The emphasis on "form" and "figure" relates to the concept of a divinely revealed pattern (תַּבְנִית, tavnith, `{{H8403}}`), as seen in the instructions for the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple. God's plans are not arbitrary but precisely "cut out."
* **Boundaries and Limits:** The use of *gizrâh* to denote a "limit" or "border" aligns with the biblical emphasis on defining sacred space and proper conduct within those boundaries (e.g., the limits around Mount Sinai).
* **Precision and Order:** The very act of "cutting out" implies exactness and order, reflecting God's nature as a God of order, not confusion.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of גִּזְרָה (gizrâh, `{{H1508}}`) in Ezekiel's vision is profound, centering on God's meticulous design and the intrinsic holiness of His dwelling place.
Firstly, the use of *gizrâh* to describe the "form" or "figure" of the temple underscores the concept of **divine intentionality and precision**. The temple is not a human construct based on arbitrary choices, but a divinely revealed blueprint, "cut out" with exactness by God Himself. This speaks to the perfect and unchangeable nature of God's plans for His people and His presence among them. It implies that every detail of the sacred space is purposeful and significant, reflecting divine wisdom.
Secondly, the application of *gizrâh* to denote a "separate place" or the "limit" of the temple highlights the **theology of holiness and separation**. The temple, as God's dwelling, must be utterly set apart from the common and the profane. The *gizrâh* defines this sacred boundary, emphasizing the radical distinction between the holy and the unholy. This separation is not merely physical but spiritual, signifying the purity and exclusivity required for fellowship with a holy God. It serves as a constant reminder that God is transcendent and His presence demands reverence and sanctification.
Finally, within the context of Ezekiel's prophetic vision, the *gizrâh* of the future temple points to **eschatological hope and restoration**. The detailed revelation of the temple's form and boundaries symbolizes God's commitment to dwelling among His people in a perfected, sanctified state. It foreshadows a time when God's presence will be fully manifested, and His people will live in complete alignment with His holy standards, guided by His precise and perfect design.
### Summary
The Hebrew word גִּזְרָה (gizrâh, `{{H1508}}`) carries the core meaning of something "cut out" or "separated." This leads to two primary semantic applications in the biblical text: referring to a precise "figure" or "form," and denoting a "separate place" or "enclosure." Found exclusively in Ezekiel's visionary description of the temple, *gizrâh* is employed to convey the meticulous, divinely ordained design and blueprint of the sacred edifice ([[Ezekiel 41:15]], [[Ezekiel 43:11]]). Simultaneously, it defines the distinct, holy boundaries and areas within the temple complex, emphasizing its consecrated nature and the separation required for God's dwelling ([[Ezekiel 42:12]], [[Ezekiel 43:12]]). Theologically, *gizrâh* underscores God's precise intentionality in His plans, the absolute holiness of His presence, and the necessity of separation for true worship and communion. It paints a picture of a divinely ordered reality, meticulously "cut out" and set apart for the glory of God.
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