Ezekiel 41:21

The posts of the temple [were] squared, [and] the face of the sanctuary; the appearance [of the one] as the appearance [of the other].

The posts {H4201} of the temple {H1964} were squared {H7251}, and the face {H6440} of the sanctuary {H6944}; the appearance {H4758} of the one as the appearance {H4758} of the other.

As for the sanctuary, the door-frames were squared, and the appearance of the [Especially] Holy Place was like the appearance [I saw at the K'var River].

The outer sanctuary had a rectangular doorframe, and the doorframe of the sanctuary was similar.

As for the temple, the door-posts were squared; and as for the face of the sanctuary, the appearance thereof was as the appearance of the temple.

Commentary

Ezekiel 41:21 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's detailed vision of a future temple, described in chapters 40-48. This particular verse focuses on specific architectural features within the sanctuary, highlighting the precision and uniformity of the divine design.

Context

This verse is situated within Ezekiel's extensive vision, received while in Babylonian exile, offering a detailed blueprint of a new temple complex. Chapters 40-42 provide precise measurements and descriptions of the outer court, inner court, and the temple building itself. Verse 21 specifically describes elements within or immediately connected to the main sanctuary area, emphasizing the meticulous nature of the divine plan for God's dwelling place, offering hope for restoration and future worship (see the start of the vision in Ezekiel 40:1).

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision: The emphasis on the temple posts being "squared" and the faces having the same "appearance" underscores the exactness and order inherent in God's design for his sanctuary.
  • Symmetry and Uniformity: The likeness in appearance ("the appearance of the one as the appearance of the other") points to a harmonious and symmetrical construction, reflecting perfection and divine beauty.
  • Holiness of the Sanctuary: The detailed attention given to every part of the temple structure highlights its sacredness as the place where God's presence would dwell. This echoes the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle in the wilderness (compare with the pattern given for the Tabernacle in Exodus 25:9).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "squared" is rabu, meaning four-sided or square. This simple term emphasizes the geometric regularity and stability of the temple's structural elements. The phrase "appearance [of the one] as the appearance [of the other]" uses the Hebrew word mar'eh (appearance, sight, vision) twice, forcefully conveying the idea of identical form and symmetry between the different faces or parts being described.

Reflection

Ezekiel's vision, including details like squared posts and symmetrical appearances, reveals God's nature as a God of order, beauty, and intentionality. Even in the architectural specifics of a future sanctuary, there is purpose and design. This attention to detail in the physical space designated for worship can remind us of the importance of order and reverence in our own approach to God and the spiritual "building" that is the church (as seen in 1 Corinthians 14:33, "God is not the author of confusion, but of peace"). It also points forward to a future state of perfect order and divine presence.

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Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 41:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Afterward he brought me to the temple, and measured the posts, six cubits broad on the one side, and six cubits broad on the other side, [which was] the breadth of the tabernacle.

  • 1 Kings 6:33 (3 votes)

    So also made he for the door of the temple posts [of] olive tree, a fourth part [of the wall].

  • Ezekiel 40:14 (3 votes)

    He made also posts of threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate.