Ezekiel 42:20 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 42:20 mean?

Ezekiel 42:20 describes the measurement of a wall surrounding the temple area, stating that it is five hundred reeds long on each side and serves to separate the holy sanctuary from the common or profane area. This verse emphasizes the clear boundary set between what is considered sacred and what is not.

In this part of Ezekiel, the prophet is being shown a vision by a divine guide, who carefully measures the new temple complex. The focus here is on the outer wall, which marks off the area dedicated to God (the sanctuary) from everything outside it. The verse highlights the importance of keeping what is holy distinct from what is ordinary or unclean in the vision of the restored temple.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 42:20

• בְּדָד (badad, "separation"): The word used for "separation" (בְּדָד, badad) means a dividing or setting apart. Its use here stresses the deliberate act of keeping the sanctuary distinct from the profane, not just a physical barrier but a spiritual one.
• קֹדֶשׁ (qodesh, "sanctuary"): This word refers to what is holy or set apart for God. Its presence in this verse underlines that the area inside the wall is dedicated to God's purposes.
• חֹל (chol, "profane place"): This word means what is common, ordinary, or not set apart for sacred use. The contrast with "sanctuary" is sharp, showing that the wall is not just about space but about spiritual status.

Why Ezekiel 42:20 matters

• Ezekiel 42:20 clarifies that the temple's holiness is protected by a clear, measured boundary, not left to chance or tradition.
• The verse connects to the larger theme in Ezekiel of God restoring order and holiness among His people, especially after the destruction and exile.
• This detail helps readers understand the seriousness with which ancient Israel viewed the separation between sacred and common, shaping how the community related to God and worship.