What is the meaning of Ezekiel 40:48?

Then he brought me to the portico of the temple

- Ezekiel is guided by the angelic surveyor straight to the entryway, showing that God Himself initiates our approach to His presence (cf. Ezekiel 40:3–4; John 6:44).

- The “portico” (a covered porch) echoes Solomon’s temple design (1 Kings 6:3), confirming continuity in God’s architectural pattern for worship.

- Because this is a literal, future temple (Ezekiel 40:2; 43:7), the detailed tour reassures Israel—and us—that God’s promises are concrete, not figurative.

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and measured the side pillars of the portico to be five cubits on each side

- Pillars mark stability, strength, and authority (Judges 16:29; Galatians 2:9).

- Five cubits (about 8 ½ feet) on each side balance grandeur with approachability; God remains majestic yet invites people in (Psalm 24:7–10).

- Exact measurements underline God’s orderliness (Exodus 25:9; 1 Corinthians 14:33).

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The width of the gateway was fourteen cubits

- A fourteen-cubit (≈24 ft) opening signals generous access—narrow is the way of personal commitment (Matthew 7:14), yet God makes entry wide enough for all who will come (Revelation 22:17).

- Compared with earlier gates (Ezekiel 40:13), this is the broadest, befitting the sanctuary’s heart.

- The number fourteen (twice seven) echoes covenant completeness (Genesis 31:41; Exodus 12:6), hinting at fulfilled redemption.

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and its sidewalls were three cubits on either side

- Sidewalls of three cubits (≈5 ft) establish clear boundaries: worshippers draw near, but only through God-ordained limits (Leviticus 10:1–3; Hebrews 10:19–22).

- The balanced symmetry (3 – 14 – 3) mirrors God’s harmony—order without chaos (Ezekiel 40:42; Revelation 21:16).

- “Either side” emphasizes equal access; no favoritism in God’s house (Acts 10:34–35; Ephesians 2:18).

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summary

Ezekiel 40:48 records the guided entrance into the future millennial temple. Every measurement—pillars of five cubits, a gateway fourteen cubits wide, sidewalls three cubits deep—affirms God’s literal blueprint for worship that is at once majestic, orderly, and welcoming. The portico invites; the pillars uphold; the wide gateway opens; the sidewalls protect. Together they proclaim a holy God who provides real, structured, and gracious access for all who will enter His presence through the means He has established.