Ezekiel 42:20

He measured it by the four sides: it had a wall round about, five hundred reeds long, and five hundred broad, to make a separation between the sanctuary and the profane place.

Ezekiel 42:20 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. The prophet Ezekiel received visions and messages from God, primarily during the Babylonian exile. In Ezekiel 42, the prophet receives a vision of a temple. In this particular verse, Ezekiel is describing the measurements of the temple in his vision. The verse mentions the measurement of the wall around the temple, which is 500 reeds long and 500 reeds broad. The purpose of this wall is to create a separation or distinction between the sanctuary and the profane (common) place.

Meaning

Ezekiel 42:20 describes the measurements of a wall in the temple vision given to the prophet Ezekiel. The wall serves to separate the sanctuary from the profane place, symbolizing the need for a clear distinction between the holy and the common. The passage specifies that both the length and the breadth of this sacred area measure five hundred reeds, emphasizing its considerable size. The measurements and symbolism in Ezekiel’s vision hold significance beyond the literal dimensions. The number five often represents the grace of God and His favor toward humanity, and it can also signify completeness or perfection. The use of five hundred reeds therefore suggests a sense of wholeness and harmony in the design of the holy space.

Biblical connections

In the preceding verses (Ezekiel 42:16-19), Ezekiel describes measuring each side—east, north, south, and west—with a measuring reed, each side being five hundred reeds long. This verse summarizes that the wall around the sanctuary was five hundred reeds long and five hundred reeds broad, forming a square enclosure. The precise measurements and the emphasis on separation highlight the order and holiness of God’s dwelling place. The wall serves as a boundary, protecting the sanctity of the sanctuary and teaching the importance of reverence in approaching God.

Application

As believers, we can draw spiritual lessons from Ezekiel’s vision. The separation between the sanctuary and the profane place reminds us of the importance of maintaining a holy and consecrated life. We are called to set ourselves apart from the values and practices of the world and to pursue a life that is dedicated to God. Just as the wall signifies a clear boundary, we are to establish boundaries in our lives that protect our relationship with God and prevent the intrusion of sin and worldly influences.

Reflection

Ezekiel 42:20 describes the measurements of the most holy place in the temple vision given to the prophet Ezekiel. The passage emphasizes the need for a clear distinction between the holy and the common. As believers, we are encouraged to live a consecrated life and establish boundaries that protect our relationship with God.