Ezekiel 43:17

The ledge shall also be square, fourteen cubits long and fourteen cubits wide, with a rim of half a cubit and a gutter of a cubit all around it. The steps of the altar shall face east."

Study Bible

The ledge shall also be square, fourteen cubits long and fourteen cubits wide
The square shape of the ledge reflects the perfection and completeness often associated with the number four in biblical numerology. The dimensions, fourteen by fourteen cubits, emphasize symmetry and order, which are significant in the design of sacred spaces. The number fourteen, being twice seven, may symbolize a double measure of spiritual perfection. This design mirrors the detailed instructions given for the tabernacle and Solomon's temple, where precise measurements were crucial for maintaining the sanctity and holiness of the space.

with a rim of half a cubit and a gutter of a cubit all around it
The rim and gutter serve practical purposes, likely related to the collection and management of sacrificial blood and other offerings. This design ensures that the altar remains clean and that the blood, which is sacred, is handled with respect. The half-cubit rim may symbolize a boundary or separation, reinforcing the idea of holiness and the need to approach God with reverence. The gutter's presence indicates a system of order and cleanliness, reflecting the Levitical laws concerning purity and the handling of sacrifices.

The steps of the altar shall face east
The orientation of the altar steps facing east is significant in biblical symbolism. Eastward orientation is often associated with the direction of God's glory and presence. In the Garden of Eden, cherubim and a flaming sword were placed on the east side to guard the way to the tree of life. The east is also the direction from which the glory of the Lord returns to the temple in Ezekiel's vision. This orientation may symbolize anticipation of the Messiah, who is often associated with the rising sun, bringing light and salvation. The eastward direction aligns with the expectation of Christ's return, as mentioned in the New Testament, where His coming is likened to lightning from the east.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of the new temple.

2. The Altar
Central to the vision in Ezekiel 43, the altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship in the new temple.

3. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 symbolizes God's presence and the restoration of Israel.

4. The East
The direction of the steps of the altar, significant in biblical symbolism as the direction from which God's glory returns to the temple.

5. The Vision
This vision of the temple and altar is part of a larger prophetic message of hope and restoration for Israel.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar's dimensions and orientation emphasize the importance of worship and sacrifice in approaching God. It reminds us of the centrality of Christ's sacrifice in our faith.

God's Presence and Restoration
The detailed vision of the temple and altar signifies God's promise to restore His people and dwell among them. This encourages us to seek God's presence in our lives and communities.

Direction and Focus
The eastward orientation of the altar steps signifies looking towards God's glory and future promises. We are called to orient our lives towards God's purposes and His coming kingdom.

Holiness and Worship
The specific measurements and design of the altar highlight the holiness required in worship. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and purity in our worship practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of the altar in Ezekiel 43:17 reflect the importance of worship in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel 43 connect with the concept of God's presence in the New Testament?

3. How can the eastward orientation of the altar steps inspire us to focus on God's promises in our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the altar in Ezekiel's vision and the role of Christ's sacrifice in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply the principles of holiness and reverence in worship, as seen in the design of the altar, to our modern worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27
Describes the altar of burnt offering in the tabernacle, providing a parallel to the altar in Ezekiel's vision.

Revelation 21
The vision of the new Jerusalem, which echoes the themes of restoration and God's presence found in Ezekiel's temple vision.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its limitations, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, which can be related to the symbolic nature of Ezekiel's temple.