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Ezekiel 40

Ezekiel 40:7

The East Gate · Ezekiel 40:5–16
Read Ezekiel 40

Translations

Modern
Each gate chamber was one rod long and one rod wide, and there were five cubits between the gate chambers. The inner threshold of the gate by the portico facing inward was one rod deep.
Traditional
And every little chamber was one reed long, and one reed broad; and between the little chambers were five cubits; and the threshold of the gate by the porch of the gate within was one reed.
Literal
And the gate chamber was one rod long, and one rod wide; and between the gate chambers five cubits; and the threshold of the gateway by the porch of the gate inside was one rod.
Latin
Et thalamum uno calamo in longum, et uno calamo in latum: et inter thalamos, quinque cubitos.

Original

Hebrew
English
Each gate chamber was one rod long and one rod wide, and there were five cubits between the gate chambers. The inner threshold of the gate by the portico facing inward was one rod deep.

Notes

Ezekiel 40:7

Six guard alcoves (small rooms for guards) lined the inside of each gate. There were three on each side. This design shows that the gates had a defensive purpose.

The layout of these gates was similar to gates found at Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer. Archaeologists have uncovered gates like these in those cities. However, the temple gates in Ezekiel’s vision were much larger than the ones found there.

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).

Events

Measurements

  • five cubits: About 8.75 ft (2.7 m)

Glossary

Arch Book of Revelation Ezekiel (Person) Ezekiel, Book of Judaism Laver New Jerusalem Porch Sadducees Son of Man Temple Theocracy

Topics

Reed used As a Measuring Device (Six Cubits)