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.
EZEKIEL 40:7KJVWhat does Ezekiel 40:7 mean?
Ezekiel 40:7 describes the measurements of small rooms along the gateway of the temple Ezekiel is shown in his vision: each chamber is one reed in both length and width, with a five-cubit space between them, and the threshold of the inner gate is also one reed wide. This verse gives specific architectural details as part of Ezekiel’s vision of a future temple.
In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel is being shown detailed plans for a temple by a heavenly guide, who measures each part with a reed (a measuring rod). The verse focuses on the exact size of the guardrooms or chambers in the gateway, emphasizing order and precision in the temple’s design. These details are part of a larger vision meant to show the holiness and structure of God’s dwelling place.
The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 40:7
- חֶדֶר (cheder; H8372): This word means "chamber" or "room." In this context, it refers to the small rooms along the gate, likely used by temple guards or officials.
- קָנֶה (qaneh; H7070): This is the word for "reed," a standard unit of measurement in Ezekiel’s vision, roughly equivalent to about 10 feet or 3 meters. Using "reed" instead of cubits highlights the larger scale of these temple features.
- אַמָּה (ammah; H520): This is the word for "cubit," a smaller unit of length (about 18 inches or 45 centimeters). The five-cubit space between chambers shows the careful spacing and symmetry in the design.
- סַף (saf; H5592): This word means "threshold." Mentioning the threshold’s width underlines the attention to every detail in the temple’s construction.
Why Ezekiel 40:7 matters
- Ezekiel 40:7 helps clarify that the temple vision is not just symbolic but includes very concrete, physical details, showing the importance of order and holiness in worship.
- The verse connects to the larger passage where Ezekiel is led step by step through the temple, highlighting God’s desire for structure and careful planning in His dwelling place.
- Understanding the measurements and terms used here helps readers picture the scale and grandeur of the temple Ezekiel saw, which was meant to inspire awe and reverence.