Ezekiel 40:15

And from the face of the gate of the entrance unto the face of the porch of the inner gate [were] fifty cubits.

And from the face {H6440} of the gate {H8179} of the entrance {H2978} unto the face {H6440} of the porch {H197} of the inner {H6442} gate {H8179} were fifty {H2572} cubits {H520}.

The distance along the passage from the outer opening of the gateway to the far side of the entranceway at the inner end of the gateway was eighty-seven-and-a-half feet.

And the distance from the entrance of the gateway to the far end of its inner portico was fifty cubits.

And from the forefront of the gate at the entrance unto the forefront of the inner porch of the gate were fifty cubits.

Commentary

Commentary on Ezekiel 40:15 (KJV)

Ezekiel 40:15 describes a specific measurement within the prophet Ezekiel's elaborate vision of a new temple. This verse, like many others in chapters 40-48, provides precise architectural details, emphasizing the divine order and meticulous planning of God's future dwelling place.

Context

The book of Ezekiel was written during the Babylonian exile, a time of great despair for the Jewish people. In this context, God grants Ezekiel a detailed vision of a future temple, a symbol of hope and restoration for Israel. This vision is distinct from Solomon's Temple and the Second Temple, prompting much theological discussion about its literal or symbolic fulfillment. Chapters 40-42 meticulously outline the structure of the temple gates, courts, and chambers, with every dimension given in cubits. This particular verse specifies a measurement "from the face of the gate of the entrance unto the face of the porch of the inner gate," providing a precise distance of fifty cubits (approximately 75-87.5 feet, depending on the cubit standard used).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Precision and Order: The overwhelming emphasis on exact measurements throughout Ezekiel's temple vision highlights God's perfect order and meticulous planning. Every detail is significant, underscoring that God's plans are not haphazard but divinely conceived and executed with absolute accuracy.
  • Holiness and Separation: The intricate design of the temple, with its various gates, courts, and precise dimensions, often symbolizes the separation of the holy from the common. It illustrates the progression required to approach God's presence, emphasizing the reverence and purity necessary for worship.
  • Future Hope and Restoration: For a people in exile, this detailed vision of a new temple and restored land (as seen in later chapters) was a powerful message of future hope and restoration. It affirmed God's faithfulness to His covenant and His intent to dwell among His people once more.

Linguistic Insights

The unit of measurement, "cubits" (Hebrew: ammah), was a standard ancient measurement, typically the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. The repeated use of "face of the gate" or "face of the porch" (Hebrew: panim) indicates a clear point of reference for the measurement, emphasizing the front or leading edge of the structure. This precision underscores the objective reality of the vision as it was presented to Ezekiel.

Related Scriptures

This verse is part of Ezekiel's extensive temple vision, which begins in Ezekiel 40:1. The concept of God dwelling among His people is a recurring theme throughout scripture, from the Tabernacle in Exodus 25:8 to the promise of God's presence in the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:3. The detailed measurements here can be compared to the specific dimensions given for the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:16, both signifying divine perfection and completeness.

Practical Application

While the exact interpretation of Ezekiel's temple vision is debated, its enduring message is clear: God is a God of order, precision, and purpose. Even in times of chaos or despair, His plans are meticulously laid out and will come to fruition. This verse encourages believers to trust in God's perfect design for their lives and for the future of His kingdom. It reminds us that God is actively involved in the details, working all things according to His sovereign will, ultimately leading to a future where His glorious presence will dwell among His people in perfect harmony and holiness.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.