King James Version
What Does Ezekiel 40:43 Mean?
“And within were hooks, an hand broad, fastened round about: and upon the tables was the flesh of the offering. hooks: or, and irons, or, the two hearthstones”
Context
41
Four tables were on this side, and four tables on that side, by the side of the gate; eight tables, whereupon they slew their sacrifices.
42
And the four tables were of hewn stone for the burnt offering, of a cubit and an half long, and a cubit and an half broad, and one cubit high: whereupon also they laid the instruments wherewith they slew the burnt offering and the sacrifice.
43
And within were hooks, an hand broad, fastened round about: and upon the tables was the flesh of the offering. hooks: or, and irons, or, the two hearthstones
44
And without the inner gate were the chambers of the singers in the inner court, which was at the side of the north gate; and their prospect was toward the south: one at the side of the east gate having the prospect toward the north.
45
And he said unto me, This chamber, whose prospect is toward the south, is for the priests, the keepers of the charge of the house. charge: or, ward, or, ordinance
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(43) **Hooks.—**This is a word of doubtful meaning, found elsewhere only in Psalm 68:13, where it is translated *pots.* It certainly designates something “within” the porch, and therefore could not have been anything attached to the tables which were “without.” Our translators, following the ancient Chaldee paraphrast, have probably given the true sense, *hooks,* upon which the flesh of the victims was hung after it had been prepared upon the tables.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 40:43 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 40:43
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge