King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 40:38 Mean?

Ezekiel 40:38 in the King James Version says “And the chambers and the entries thereof were by the posts of the gates, where they washed the burnt offering.” — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the chambers and the entries thereof were by the posts of the gates, where they washed the burnt offering.”

Ezekiel 40:38 · KJV

Context

36

The little chambers thereof, the posts thereof, and the arches thereof, and the windows to it round about: the length was fifty cubits, and the breadth five and twenty cubits.

37

And the posts thereof were toward the utter court; and palm trees were upon the posts thereof, on this side, and on that side: and the going up to it had eight steps.

38

And the chambers and the entries thereof were by the posts of the gates, where they washed the burnt offering.

39

And in the porch of the gate were two tables on this side, and two tables on that side, to slay thereon the burnt offering and the sin offering and the trespass offering.

40

And at the side without, as one goeth up to the entry of the north gate, were two tables; and on the other side, which was at the porch of the gate, were two tables. as one: or, at the step

Read Ezekiel 40 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The chambers for washing burnt offerings reveal the seriousness of approaching God through sacrifice. The Hebrew רָחַץ (rachats, 'washed') emphasizes ritual cleansing—blood and impurity must be removed before offerings could be presented. This wasn't merely hygienic but theological: sin's consequences require thorough cleansing. The burnt offering (עֹלָה, olah) signified complete consecration to God—the entire animal consumed, representing total surrender. The location 'by the posts of the gates' indicates preparation occurred before approaching the altar, teaching that worship requires careful, reverent preparation. Reformed theology sees these sacrifices as types of Christ's perfect offering (Hebrews 10:1-18). Where Levitical priests washed animal sacrifices repeatedly, Christ offered Himself once for all. The chambers teach that approach to God demands both Christ's cleansing blood and our sanctified lives (Romans 12:1-2).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Levitical law prescribed detailed procedures for burnt offerings (Leviticus 1, 6:8-13). Priests washed internal organs and legs before burning (Leviticus 1:9, 13). Solomon's temple had the Bronze Sea and ten lavers for washing (1 Kings 7:23-39). Archaeological excavations of Israelite high places reveal stone basins and drainage channels for ritual washing. The burnt offering was the most frequent sacrifice—offered morning and evening daily (Exodus 29:38-42), on Sabbaths (Numbers 28:9-10), and at festivals. For the exiles, who couldn't offer sacrifices in Babylon, this vision promised restored worship. The chambers' placement at gate posts meant worshipers would see sacrificial preparation—visual reminder that access to God costs blood. This foreshadowed the ultimate cost: God's own Son (Isaiah 53:10, John 1:29).

Reflection Questions

  1. How seriously do you 'wash' your life before approaching God in worship—or do you come casually, unprepared?
  2. What does the burnt offering's total consumption teach about wholehearted devotion versus partial commitment?
  3. How does Christ's once-for-all sacrifice change your understanding of preparation for worship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְלִשְׁכָּ֣ה1 of 8

“And the chambers”

H3957

a room in a building (whether for storage, eating, or lodging)

וּפִתְחָ֔הּ2 of 8

“and the entries”

H6607

an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way

בְּאֵילִ֖ים3 of 8

“thereof were by the posts”

H352

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

הַשְּׁעָרִ֑ים4 of 8

“of the gates”

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

שָׁ֖ם5 of 8
H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

יָדִ֥יחוּ6 of 8

“where they washed”

H1740

to thrust away; figuratively, to cleanse

אֶת7 of 8
H853

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

הָעֹלָֽה׃8 of 8

“the burnt offering”

H5930

a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)

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 40:38 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 40:38 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 4:61 Kings 6:8Ezekiel 40:12Ezekiel 41:10-11Ezekiel 40:17Leviticus 1:9

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