In the biblical context, "courts" and "chambers" refer to specific architectural and functional elements within the sacred spaces of ancient Israel, particularly in the Tabernacle and the Temple. These structures played a significant role in the religious, social, and judicial life of the Israelites.

Courts

The concept of "courts" in the Bible primarily pertains to the open areas surrounding the Tabernacle and the Temple, where various religious activities and gatherings took place. The courts served as transitional spaces between the secular world and the sacred inner sanctuaries.

1. The Tabernacle Court: The Tabernacle, as described in Exodus, was surrounded by a courtyard. This court was enclosed by linen curtains and measured 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide (Exodus 27:9-18). It contained the bronze altar for burnt offerings and the bronze basin for ceremonial washing. The court was a place where the Israelites could bring their sacrifices and offerings, symbolizing their approach to God.

2. The Temple Courts: Solomon's Temple, and later the Second Temple, featured multiple courts. The most notable were the Court of the Gentiles, the Court of Women, the Court of Israel, and the Court of the Priests. Each court had specific functions and restrictions regarding who could enter. For instance, the Court of the Gentiles was accessible to all, while the inner courts were progressively more restricted, culminating in the Holy of Holies, which only the High Priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34).

3. Judicial Courts: In addition to religious functions, courts also served judicial purposes. The elders of Israel would gather at the city gates, which functioned as courts of law, to adjudicate disputes and administer justice (Deuteronomy 16:18). This practice underscored the integration of legal and religious life in Israelite society.

Chambers

Chambers in the biblical context refer to the rooms or compartments within the Tabernacle and Temple complex. These chambers had various purposes, including storage, preparation, and housing for priests.

1. Chambers in the Tabernacle: While the Tabernacle itself was a tent-like structure with no permanent chambers, the priests used surrounding areas for storage and preparation of sacrificial elements.

2. Chambers in Solomon's Temple: Solomon's Temple included numerous chambers built into the structure. These chambers were used for storing temple treasures, offerings, and other sacred items (1 Kings 6:5-10). They also provided living quarters for the priests and Levites who served in the Temple.

3. Chambers in the Second Temple: The Second Temple, as described in the post-exilic period, also contained chambers for similar purposes. Nehemiah 13:4-9 recounts how Tobiah the Ammonite was given a chamber in the Temple, which was later cleansed and restored for its intended use.

4. Symbolic Significance: Chambers also held symbolic significance, representing the ordered and sacred space necessary for worship and service to God. The careful design and use of these chambers reflected the holiness and reverence due to God's dwelling place.

In summary, courts and chambers were integral to the religious and communal life of ancient Israel, serving both practical and symbolic functions. They facilitated worship, justice, and the maintenance of holiness within the community, as prescribed by the Mosaic Law.