Ezekiel 47:3
And when the man that had the line in his hand went forth eastward, he measured a thousand cubits, and he brought me through the waters; the waters were to the ankles.
Ezekiel 47:3 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Ezekiel, the man with the measuring line is conducting a survey of the temple. The phrase "he measured a thousand cubits" indicates that the man was taking precise measurements of the temple grounds. The mention of going "eastward" suggests a specific direction in which the measurements were being conducted. When he brings Ezekiel through the waters that were only ankle-deep, it symbolizes a threshold or boundary that they were crossing. The shallow waters may represent a beginning stage of purification or renewal, preparing Ezekiel for deeper revelations or experiences within the temple. This verse serves as a metaphor for spiritual progression and the gradual unveiling of divine mysteries. It emphasizes the importance of taking measured steps in one's spiritual journey, gradually deepening one's understanding and connection with the divine.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Ezekiel is rich in theological symbolism. The man with the measuring line represents an angelic guide leading Ezekiel through a vision of the restored temple. The act of measuring signifies God's sovereignty over all creation and His plan for redemption. The movement eastward may symbolize the dawning of a new era, as the east is often associated with new beginnings in biblical literature. The measurement of a thousand cubits represents completeness and perfection, suggesting that God's restoration will be fully accomplished. The waters at ankle-depth can be interpreted as a gradual progression towards deeper spiritual understanding. As Ezekiel is brought through the waters, he is being purified and prepared for the revelations to come. Overall, this verse invites us to reflect on the process of spiritual growth, the divine plan unfolding in our lives, and the transformative power of God's presence.
Ezekiel 47:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
When the man went forth eastward with the line in his hand, he measured a thousand cubits, and he caused me to pass through the waters, waters that were to the ankles.
World English Bible
When the man went out eastward with the line in his hand, he measured one thousand cubits, and he caused me to pass through the waters, waters that were to the ankles.
Douay-Rheims
And when the man that had the line in his hand went out towards the east, he measured a thousand cubits: and he brought me through the water up to the ankles.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when the man that had the line in his hand, went foorth Eastward, he measured a thousand cubites, and he brought me through the waters: the waters were to the ancles.