Ezekiel 40:10

Translations

Modern

There were three gate chambers on each side of the east gate, each with the same measurements, and the gateposts on either side also had the same measurements.

Traditional

And the little chambers of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side.

Literal

And the chambers of the gateway toward the east were three on this side, and three on this side; a single measure unto the three, and a single measure was unto the gateposts on this side and on this side.

Latin

Porro thalami portæ ad viam orientalem, tres hinc et tres inde: mensura una trium, et mensura una frontium ex utraque parte.

Original

Hebrew

English

There were three gate chambers on each side of the east gate, each with the same measurements, and the gateposts on either side also had the same measurements.

Notes

Ezekiel 40:5–16

The exact architectural details of the temple are difficult to translate. Some of the building terms are hard to understand in every language. However, the overall impression of these gates is clear.

The gates looked like fortresses (strong buildings used for defense). They were built to keep out people who did not have permission to enter. These gates protected the holy space of the temple.

The eastern gateway is described first because it was the most important. It stood on the sacred east–west line (a straight line from east to west) on which the whole temple was built. This gateway is also important because the glory of the Lord (God’s visible and powerful presence) would return through it (Ezekiel 43:1–5).

Ezekiel 40:1–46:24

The prophet’s tour of the new temple began outside the building. He then moved step by step toward its center.

After reaching the inside, he walked outward again. The tour ended at the kitchens located in the corners of the outer courtyard (Ezekiel 46:19–24).

Theme notes and profiles

Israel’s Geography as Theology Temple Design as a Picture of God's Truth Temple Legislation as Theology The Church as God’s Temple The New Community