King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 40:14 Mean?

Ezekiel 40:14 in the King James Version says “He made also posts of threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate. — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

He made also posts of threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate.

Ezekiel 40:14 · KJV


Context

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

13

He measured then the gate from the roof of one little chamber to the roof of another: the breadth was five and twenty cubits, door against door.

14

He made also posts of threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate.

15

And from the face of the gate of the entrance unto the face of the porch of the inner gate were fifty cubits.

16

And there were narrow windows to the little chambers, and to their posts within the gate round about, and likewise to the arches: and windows were round about inward: and upon each post were palm trees. narrow: Heb. closed arches: or, galleries, or, porches inward: or, within


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The posts' measurement—'threescore cubits, even unto the post of the court round about the gate'—continues the exhaustive documentation. Sixty cubits (approximately 105 feet) measures the posts' height or cumulative perimeter. The Hebrew אַמָּה (ammah, 'cubit') repeatedly appears, emphasizing standardized divine measurement. These massive posts provided structural support and visual grandeur—approaching God's house should inspire awe. The phrase 'round about the gate' indicates comprehensive measurement, nothing omitted. Reformed theology sees this as depicting God's omniscience—He knows all things exactly (Psalm 147:4-5, Matthew 10:30). The substantial posts symbolize stability—God's house stands firm on unchanging foundations (Matthew 7:24-27, 1 Corinthians 3:11).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Sixty-cubit posts represent monumental architecture comparable to Solomon's temple pillars Jachin and Boaz, each 18 cubits high plus capitals (1 Kings 7:15-22). Ancient temple construction featured impressive vertical elements creating visual impact and structural strength. The measurements' thoroughness recalls Exodus 25-27 (tabernacle specifications) and 1 Kings 6-7 (temple construction). God's detailed prescriptions prevented improvisation or human alteration. Herod's later temple expansion featured massive stones weighing hundreds of tons, some surviving today in Jerusalem's Western Wall. The posts' height emphasized ascending to God's presence—vertical dimension points heavenward. Entering required looking up, inspiring humility and reverence.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'posts' (foundational supports) in your spiritual life provide stability during storms?
  2. How do you cultivate upward focus (vertical dimension) versus horizontal distraction in worship?
  3. Does your spiritual architecture inspire awe at God's greatness or settle for minimal functionality?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ1 of 11

He made

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶת2 of 11
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

אֵיל֙3 of 11

also posts

H352

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

שִׁשִּׁ֣ים4 of 11

of threescore

H8346

sixty

אַמָּ֑ה5 of 11

cubits

H520

properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)

וְאֶל6 of 11
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אֵיל֙7 of 11

also posts

H352

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

הֶֽחָצֵ֔ר8 of 11

of the court

H2691

a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)

הַשַּׁ֖עַר9 of 11

the gate

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

סָבִֽיב׃10 of 11

round about

H5439

(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around

סָבִֽיב׃11 of 11

round about

H5439

(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around


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 40:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ezekiel 40:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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