Ezekiel 40:47
So he measured the court, an hundred cubits long, and an hundred cubits broad, foursquare; and the altar that was before the house.
Ezekiel 40:47 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Ezekiel describes the measurements of the temple court and the altar in front of the house of the Lord. The significance of these specific measurements lies in their symbolic representation of perfection and completeness. The use of the number one hundred emphasizes wholeness and harmony, signifying a complete and perfect space dedicated to worship. The square shape of the court and altar further reinforces this idea of perfection, as squares are often associated with stability and balance. By providing these precise measurements, the verse highlights the importance of order and structure in the worship of God. It serves as a reminder to approach the divine with reverence and awe, in a space that is carefully designed and consecrated for sacred rituals and offerings. Overall, this verse conveys the importance of intentional design and meticulous planning in creating a space dedicated to spiritual practices and connection with the divine.
Theological Overview
In this particular verse, the measurement of the court and the altar in front of the house is significant in the context of the temple. The fact that the court is described as being "foursquare" emphasizes the idea of perfection and completeness in the design of the temple, highlighting the importance of symmetry and balance in worship. The emphasis on measurements in the Bible often symbolizes order and structure, reflecting the divine presence and guiding principles. Additionally, the specific measurements of one hundred cubits each for the length and breadth of the court may allude to a sense of wholeness and abundance in dedicating the space for worship and sacrifice.
Furthermore, the imagery of the altar being situated before the house or temple underscores the central role of sacrifice and ritual in the religious practices of the ancient Israelites. The altar was where offerings were made to God, symbolizing a place of divine encounter and atonement. By detailing the measurements of the court and the altar, the verse invites readers to reflect on the significance of sacred spaces, rituals, and symbols in the expression of faith and devotion.
Ezekiel 40:47 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he measured the court, a hundred cubits long, and a hundred cubits broad, foursquare; and the altar was before the house.
World English Bible
He measured the court, one hundred cubits long, and a hundred cubits broad, square; and the altar was before the house.
Douay-Rheims
And he measured the court a hundred cubits long, and a hundred cubits broad foursquare: and the altar that was before the face of the temple.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So he measured the court, an hundreth cubites long, and an hundreth cubits broad, eue foure square: likewise the altar that was before ye house.