King James Version
What Does Ezekiel 42:19 Mean?
“He turned about to the west side, and measured five hundred reeds with the measuring reed.”
Context
17
He measured the north side, five hundred reeds, with the measuring reed round about.
18
He measured the south side, five hundred reeds, with the measuring reed.
19
He turned about to the west side, and measured five hundred reeds with the measuring reed.
20
He measured it by the four sides: it had a wall round about, five hundred reeds long, and five hundred broad, to make a separation between the sanctuary and the profane place.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**20. I am against your pillows--**that is, against your lying ceremonial tricks by which ye cheat the people.
**to make them fly--**namely, into their snares, as fowlers disturb birds so as to be suddenly caught in the net spread for them. "Fly" is peculiarly appropriate as to those lofty spiritual flights to which they pretended to raise their dupes when they veiled their heads with kerchiefs and made them rest on luxurious arm-cushions (Eze 13:18).
**let ... souls go--**"Ye make them fly" in order to destroy them; "I will let them go" in order to save them (Psa 91:3; Pr 6:5; Ho 9:8).
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 42:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.