Ezekiel 40:49
The length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; and he brought me by the steps whereby they went up to it: and there were pillars by the posts, one on this side, and another on that side.
Ezekiel 40:49 · King James Version
Meaning
Within the context of the larger passage in Ezekiel, this verse describes the dimensions and details of the porch of the temple. The measurements of the porch, being twenty cubits in length and eleven cubits in breadth, give us a sense of the size and scale of the temple structure. The mention of the steps leading up to the porch signifies the process of ascending to a higher or more sacred space within the temple. The presence of pillars by the posts on either side of the porch highlights the architectural elements and design of the temple, emphasizing strength, support, and grandeur. This verse serves to provide a visual image of the temple's entrance and layout, giving readers a glimpse into the magnificence and reverence of the sacred space described in Ezekiel's vision.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the description of the measurements and details of the porch highlights the precision and care that went into the construction of the temple. The mention of the length being twenty cubits and the breadth eleven cubits indicates a specific size for the porch, which suggests intentional design and planning. The use of the term "cubits" as a unit of measurement was common in ancient times and was based on the length of a person's arm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. This verse also mentions the pillars by the posts, indicating a sense of grandeur and strength in the architecture of the temple. The symbolism of the pillars can represent stability, support, and a connection between the earthly and the divine. By describing these details, the verse emphasizes the reverent and sacred nature of the temple and the importance of meticulous attention to detail in the construction of a place of worship.
Ezekiel 40:49 in other translations
American Standard Version
The length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; even by the steps whereby they went up to it: and there were pillars by the posts, one on this side, and another on that side.
World English Bible
The length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits; even by the steps by which they went up to it: and there were pillars by the posts, one on this side, and another on that side.
Douay-Rheims
And the length of the porch was twenty cubits, and the breadth eleven cubits, and there were eight steps to go up to it. And there were pillars in the fronts: one on this side, and another on that side.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The length of the porch was twentie cubites, and ye breadth eleuen cubites, and he brought me by the steps whereby they went vp to it, and there were pillars by the postes, one on this side, and another on that side.