King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 40:10 Mean?

Ezekiel 40:10 in the King James Version says “And the little chambers of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one mea...” — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the little chambers of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side.”

Ezekiel 40:10 · KJV

Context

8

He measured also the porch of the gate within, one reed.

9

Then measured he the porch of the gate, eight cubits; and the posts thereof, two cubits; and the porch of the gate was inward.

10

And the little chambers of the gate eastward were three on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side.

11

And he measured the breadth of the entry of the gate, ten cubits; and the length of the gate, thirteen cubits.

12

The space also before the little chambers was one cubit on this side, and the space was one cubit on that side: and the little chambers were six cubits on this side, and six cubits on that side. space: Heb. limit, or, bound

Read Ezekiel 40 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The symmetry—'three little chambers on this side, and three on that side; they three were of one measure: and the posts had one measure on this side and on that side'—emphasizes equality, fairness, and divine order. The Hebrew שָׁלֹשׁ (shalosh, 'three') repeated throughout indicates completeness (God is Triune; resurrection on third day). The equal measurements prevent favoritism or hierarchy among guard chambers—all equally significant in maintaining sanctuary sanctity. The posts' uniform measurement teaches consistency—God's standards don't fluctuate based on circumstances or persons. Reformed theology sees this as picturing impartial justice: God shows no partiality (Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11), and His law applies equally to all. The numerical perfection (3x3=9) suggests divine completeness in the gate's design.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The three chambers on each side (six total) housed gatekeepers who controlled access and maintained security. First Chronicles 9:17-27 describes gatekeeper responsibilities: guarding thresholds, opening gates daily, protecting treasuries. Their equal status prevented conflicts over authority or privilege—all served the same Lord under identical standards. Ancient gate architecture at Megiddo, Hazor, and Gezer shows similar symmetrical chambered gates from Solomon's era. The uniform measurements also facilitated construction—standardized components simplified building and repair. This principle applies spiritually: God's standards are consistent across cultures and centuries. What constituted holiness for ancient Israel remains holiness today (God's moral character doesn't change). Church offices have different functions but equal dignity before God (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you exhibit the symmetry and equality that marks God's justice in how you treat people of different status?
  2. What areas of your spiritual life need more 'uniform measurement'—consistent standards versus situational ethics?
  3. How does the three-fold repetition point to the Trinity's complete involvement in guarding access to God's presence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 16 words
וְתָאֵ֨י1 of 16

“And the little chambers”

H8372

a room (as circumscribed)

הַשַּׁ֜עַר2 of 16

“of the gate”

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

דֶּ֣רֶךְ3 of 16

“eastward”

H1870

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

הַקָּדִ֗ים4 of 16
H6921

the fore or front part; hence (by orientation) the east (often adverbially, eastward, for brevity the east wind)

לִשְׁלָשְׁתָּ֑ם5 of 16

“and three”

H7969

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

וּמִפּֽוֹ׃6 of 16

“on that side”

H6311

this place (french ici), i.e., here or hence

לִשְׁלָשְׁתָּ֑ם7 of 16

“and three”

H7969

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

וּמִפּֽוֹ׃8 of 16

“on that side”

H6311

this place (french ici), i.e., here or hence

וּמִדָּ֥ה9 of 16

“measure”

H4060

properly, extension, i.e., height or breadth; specifically, tribute (as measured)

אַחַ֛ת10 of 16

“had one”

H259

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

לִשְׁלָשְׁתָּ֑ם11 of 16

“and three”

H7969

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

וּמִדָּ֥ה12 of 16

“measure”

H4060

properly, extension, i.e., height or breadth; specifically, tribute (as measured)

אַחַ֛ת13 of 16

“had one”

H259

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

לָאֵילִ֖ם14 of 16

“and the posts”

H352

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

וּמִפּֽוֹ׃15 of 16

“on that side”

H6311

this place (french ici), i.e., here or hence

וּמִפּֽוֹ׃16 of 16

“on that side”

H6311

this place (french ici), i.e., here or hence

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel 40:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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