Daily Tanach – Yechezkel Chapter 42: The Chambers for Priests and the Temple’s Boundary
- The Northern Chambers (Verses 1–9)
Yechezkel is brought out to the outer courtyard, toward the north side, where he sees a complex of chambers situated opposite the Temple’s western structure (“the fortress”).
These northern chambers are:
- adjacent to a 100‑cubit stretch facing the northern gate,
- 50 cubits wide,
- built in a three‑story arrangement,
- with pillars alternating with pillars, forming a multi‑level architectural structure.
Before the chambers is a 10‑cubit‑wide walkway, with a 1‑cubit pathway leading inward, and their entrances all face north.
The upper chambers are narrower, because the supporting pillars reduce their floor space; unlike the courtyard buildings, they do not stand on ground‑level pillars, so the upper floors lack full support.
The outer wall along the chambers faces the outer court and measures 50 cubits, while the Temple-facing side is 100 cubits, reflecting a stepped design.
Access to these chambers is from the east, via the outer court.
- The Southern Chambers (Verses 10–12)
A similar arrangement of chambers exists on the south side, also adjacent to the courtyard wall and facing the fortress‑building.
Everything about them—
their length, width, entrances, exits, and internal design—
mirrors the northern chambers.
An eastern passageway provides entry, just as on the north.
- Function of the Chambers (Verses 13–14)
Hashem explains to Yechezkel that both the northern and southern chambers serve as holy chambers for the priests.
Specifically:
- They are used by the priests who serve Hashem,
- They eat most holy offerings there—sin‑offerings, guilt‑offerings, and meal‑offerings,
- These offerings must be stored in a holy place, so these chambers are set apart for that purpose.
When priests finish their Temple service, they must leave their sacred garments inside these chambers before going out to the people, changing into ordinary clothing. This preserves the sanctity of the holy garments.
- The Measurement of the Entire Temple Compound (Verses 15–20)
After completing the interior measures, the man leads Yechezkel outside to the eastern gate to measure the outer boundary surrounding the Temple area.
Each side is measured:
- East side: 500 rods
- North side: 500 rods
- South side: 500 rods
- West side: 500 rods
A rod is a reed of six long cubits, so this establishes a massive boundary—far larger than the First or Second Temple complex.
The outer wall forms a perfect square:
500 rods × 500 rods, with the wall “to separate between the holy and the profane.”
This boundary emphasizes the complete sanctity and separation of the future Temple precincts.
Key Themes in Yechezkel 42
- Sanctity and Separation
The chambers for the priests and the massive exterior wall highlight strict divisions between holy and common spaces.
- Order, Symmetry, and Purpose
The north and south chambers mirror one another, reflecting divine architectural precision.
- Preparation for Divine Presence
The chambers ensure that offerings and priestly garments remain in holy spaces, preparing the way for Hashem’s glory described in the next chapter (43).
