Definition: Afterward he brought me to the gate, [even] the gate that looketh toward the east:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Ezekiel 43:1. It's a really significant moment in God’s relationship with Moses and his people. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a pivotal moment where God is establishing a special connection between God and Moses – essentially, making him known to the Israelites in a new way. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 43:” This immediately tells us where this happens: Ezekiel, a prophet sent by God, is speaking to Moses. “He brought me” : This means God is initiating this connection – giving Moses a special opportunity to communicate with him. “Afterward” : This phrase emphasizes that this isn't the first time God has been communicating with Moses. It’s a deliberate and significant step in a longer process. “He brought me” - again: This reinforces the idea of God initiating this communication. “[even] the gate” : This is where it gets interesting. The “gate” isn't just any gate; it's a special gate . It’s a symbolic representation of a pathway or opening – a way for God to reveal Himself and His promise to the Israelites. It’s like a doorway that leads into something significant. “that looketh toward the east” : This is the crucial part! "Looketh" means “is looking.” The gate, therefore, is facing eastward . So, what does it all mean? The verse suggests a shift in how God intends to communicate with Moses. It’s not just about speaking to him; it's about establishing a relationship where God manifests Himself and reveals His presence more openly. The eastward-facing gate symbolizes: A new perspective: God is revealing Himself in a way that’s fresh and different from the past. Hope for the future: The east, generally associated with new beginnings and light, suggests a hopeful future for Israel. In short, Ezekiel 43:1 tells us God is actively inviting Moses to receive a special message – one that will change everything about how he understands and interacts with his people. --- To help me explain it even better and tailor the explanation to your needs, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., its significance in the context of the entire book of Ezekiel?) Are you interested in a more literal interpretation, or do you want a deeper theological understanding?

Definition: Thou son of man, shew the house to the house of Israel, that they may be ashamed of their iniquities: and let them measure the pattern.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 43:10. It's a really important and symbolic verse with a lot of layers! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God revealing himself to Moses (who is speaking on behalf of the people) and then sending him to examine the Israelites – specifically, the house of Israel. It’s essentially a test of their character and their willingness to change. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thou son of man” : This is a very formal and elevated way of saying "God" or “the Lord.” It emphasizes that this isn't just any old message, but divine instruction. “Show the house to the house of Israel…” : This means God wants to see their homes – their communities – and understand what’s happening within them. He wants to know how they’re living. “…that they may be ashamed of their iniquities:” This is the core of the message. “Iniquities” means wrongdoing, sin, or moral failings. God is pointing out that these people are already behaving badly – perhaps through greed, selfishness, injustice, or other negative actions. “and let them measure the pattern:” This is a crucial part. God isn't just telling them to see their problems; He’s giving them the opportunity to correct them. He’s instructing them to create a “pattern” – a standard of behavior they can use to improve themselves. What does this all mean practically? This verse is often interpreted as a call for repentance and reform within Israel. God wants to see if they're willing to change their ways and become righteous. It’s a message about accountability, responsibility, and the importance of living a moral life. In short: God is using this test to see if the Israelites are truly committed to righteousness and will make amends for their sins. It’s a judgment but also an opportunity for change and restoration. Important Note: This passage has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, and there's no single definitive meaning. It’s a complex verse that speaks to the relationship between God and his people and the importance of moral responsibility. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes?

Definition: And if they be ashamed of all that they have done, shew them the form of the house, and the fashion thereof, and the goings out thereof, and the comings in thereof, and all the forms thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and all the forms thereof, and all the laws thereof: and write [it] in their sight, that they may keep the whole form thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and do them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:11. It’s a really important passage about God's covenant with Israel – essentially a promise of forgiveness and a new relationship. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying, “If they truly repent of their sins and show their remorse, then I want them to understand exactly how we are supposed to live and behave.” It's about showing respect and understanding of God's rules. Let’s break it down word by word: “And if they be ashamed of all that they have done…” – This is a crucial part. It means they (specifically the Israelites) need to acknowledge their mistakes and feelings of guilt. They need to understand the gravity of what they've done wrong. “…show them the form of the house, and the fashion thereof, and the goings out thereof, and the comings in thereof…” – This is a really vivid metaphor. Think of a house – it has walls, rooms, doors, windows, etc. This verse describes how we should live our lives . It’s about understanding the different stages of our life - what we do, where we go, and who we interact with. It's a detailed description of our daily routines and interactions. “…and write [it] in their sight, that they may keep the whole form thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and do them.” – This is the key instruction. God wants to give them a complete picture – everything we are supposed to do according to His law. It’s not just about following rules; it's about understanding the entire context of how things should be done. "Ordinances" refers to specific laws and practices that define our behavior. In Short: God is asking them, “Let’s show you everything we expect from you – your actions, your relationships, everything you do – so you can understand what’s right and wrong, and live in a way that pleases me.” Why is this important? This verse is fundamental to understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It's about acknowledging wrongdoing and demonstrating a desire for reconciliation. It’s a reminder that we are accountable to God and must live according to His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might be applied in a real-life situation (like forgiveness)?

Definition: This [is] the law of the house; Upon the top of the mountain the whole limit thereof round about [shall be] most holy. Behold, this [is] the law of the house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:12 together. It's a really important and fascinating passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it’s saying that this particular area – likely a specific part of the Temple in Jerusalem – is now considered holy and reserved for God. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Ezekiel 43:12” : This refers to a specific chapter in the Bible. It's a key part of a larger story about a prophet named Ezekiel. “This [is] the law of the house” : This is the core of the message. “Law” means rules and guidelines. This verse isn’t just any rule; it’s a specific rule that applies to this place – the Temple. It's saying that this area has been given special status and is subject to God’s presence. “Upon the top of the mountain the whole limit thereof round about [shall be] most holy.” : This is where it gets really interesting. “Top of the mountain” suggests a high, elevated location. "The whole limit thereof" means everything within that area – all the space and buildings. "Round about [shall be] most holy" is a fancy way of saying: "It’s completely dedicated to God." It's meant to emphasize how sacred this place is. Putting it all together: The verse describes a special, elevated area within the Temple that is reserved for God and is considered extremely holy. It’s a statement about the importance of maintaining a high level of worship and devotion in this space. Why is this important? This passage was a significant moment in biblical history. It shows God's intention to establish a place where people could come to worship and connect with Him directly, rather than just worshipping on a crowded or less reverent ground. In short: The verse describes a special area within the Temple that is reserved for God and is considered absolutely holy – a symbol of divine presence and reverence. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of Ezekiel 43? Discuss what this verse might symbolize?

Definition: And these [are] the measures of the altar after the cubits: The cubit [is] a cubit and an hand breadth; even the bottom [shall be] a cubit, and the breadth a cubit, and the border thereof by the edge thereof round about [shall be] a span: and this [shall be] the higher place of the altar.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:13. It’s quite poetic and has a really significant meaning! Here's what it says in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is describing the size of an altar. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And these [are] the measures of the altar after the cubits…” - This tells us we're talking about a special altar – think of it like a platform for offering sacrifices. "Cubits" are a unit of measurement, similar to feet or inches. So, this verse is saying the altar has dimensions based on these cubit units. “The cubit [is] a cubit and an hand breadth…” - A cubit is roughly equivalent to 6-8 inches. So, this means the altar’s length will be about 6-8 inches wide. A hand breadth is also around 12 inches. “Even the bottom [shall be] a cubit, and the breadth a cubit, and the border thereof by the edge thereof round about [shall be] a span:” - This continues to specify the dimensions of the altar’s base (the bottom). It's saying: The bottom of the altar is exactly 1 cubit wide. The width of the altar is also exactly 1 cubit wide. The entire perimeter of the altar, including the edge, is about a span – roughly 20 inches (the length of a hand). “and this [shall be] the higher place of the altar.” - This emphasizes that this altar is specifically designed to be the highest point for offering sacrifices. It’s not just any altar; it's a special one. What does this verse mean? This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of God’s covenant with Israel. The measurements are meant to show that God is establishing a very close and intimate relationship with His people. It’s about: Divine Perfection: God is creating something perfect and precise, just like He creates relationships. Unity & Commitment: The careful measurement emphasizes the importance of being united with God and committed to following His will. A Dedicated Space: This altar isn't just a place for sacrifice; it’s a symbol of that relationship – a way for Israel to be closer to God in their worship. In short, Ezekiel 43:13 is describing a special altar designed with precise dimensions to signify a deep and meaningful covenant between God and His people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a different interpretation of this verse? Tell you more about the historical context of this passage?

Definition: And from the bottom [upon] the ground [even] to the lower settle [shall be] two cubits, and the breadth one cubit; and from the lesser settle [even] to the greater settle [shall be] four cubits, and the breadth [one] cubit.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:14. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s relationship with Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a specific measurement of a portion of the Promised Land. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 43:14” : This is the verse itself – it's from a chapter in the Bible. “And from the bottom [even] upon” : "From the bottom" means it starts at the very lowest point, like the surface of the earth. "Even" adds emphasis that it must begin there. “upon the ground [even] to the lower settle” : This is a large area – think of a vast field or land. “Upon the ground” means it’s located on the surface of the Earth. "Lower settle" suggests settling down, becoming more compact. “and the breadth one cubit; and the width [one] cubit” : "The breadth" refers to a long distance, like a river or a field. "One cubit" is a unit of measurement in Hebrew Bible – roughly equivalent to 6-8 inches (about 15-20 cm). So, this means the area is exactly 6-8 inches wide and long. “and from the lesser settle [even] to the greater settle [shall be] four cubits” : "Lesser" refers to a smaller part of the land. “Even” again emphasizes that it must begin there. “Greater settle” means the larger portion of the land. This section is significantly wider (4 cubits) and longer (4 cubits). “and the breadth [one] cubit” : This final bit repeats the measurement – 6-8 inches wide and long. What’s the Big Picture? The entire verse is a symbolic representation of God’s covenant with Israel. It describes a specific area that God intends to be used for His purpose. The measurements are not about a literal physical land; they're about: God’s Presence: The vastness and division of the space highlight God’s immense power and presence. A Promise: It signifies that God is establishing a covenant with Israel, a promise to provide for them and bless their land. Divine Authority: The precise measurements demonstrate God's control over creation and His intention for this specific area. In essence, it’s a visual representation of God's plan to bless and protect the Israelites. --- Do you want me to: Explain a particular part in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Give you a simpler analogy to understand the concept?

Definition: So the altar [shall be] four cubits; and from the altar and upward [shall be] four horns.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:15. It’s a pretty fascinating and symbolic passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes the creation of an altar – a special place for God to connect with people. It’s like saying, “God is setting up a special spot for us to talk to Him.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Ezekiel 43”: This refers to a specific prophecy or vision given by God to Ezekiel, a Jewish prophet in the 7th century BC. “So the altar [shall be]…” – This is a command from God. He's saying, "I want you to build this altar." “…and from the altar and upward [shall be] four horns.” – This is the really important part! The verses explain that the altar has four distinct, raised horns (like little peaks). These horns aren’t just decorative; they represent four aspects of God's relationship with humanity. What do these “horns” symbolize? This is where it gets interesting and symbolic. The four horns represent: Four Aspects of God: Each horn can be interpreted as a different facet or characteristic of God. Four Levels of Relationship: Think of it like a progression – God wants to build a relationship with people that starts with a closeness and grows into something deeper, more complex, and ultimately, a unified connection. In essence, the verse is telling us that God is establishing a dedicated space for communication and fellowship with humanity. It’s a visual representation of a growing and evolving relationship. Important Note: This interpretation has been debated throughout history, and different people have offered varying explanations. However, this is the generally accepted understanding based on biblical scholarship. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect it to other stories or themes in the Bible?

Definition: And the altar [shall be] twelve [cubits] long, twelve broad, square in the four squares thereof.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:16. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a special altar that’s incredibly large and square. Let’s unpack the details: “Ezekiel 43…” : This refers to a prophecy written by God through Ezekiel, a leader of Israel during a time of great turmoil. “…And the altar [shall be] twelve [cubits] long, twelve broad, square in the four squares thereof.” This is where it gets really interesting. “The altar” : This isn’t just any altar; it's a special, significant altar. “Twelve cubits long” : "Cubits" are units of measurement back then – roughly equivalent to 16 inches (about 40 centimeters). So, the altar is long - about 16 feet long. “Twelve broad” : “Broad” means wide. The altar is wide – about 12 feet wide. “Square in the four squares thereof.” : This is the most significant part. It describes a perfect square shape, and it's arranged in four equal squares (like a grid). What’s the Significance? This imagery is used to represent a new covenant – a new agreement between God and His people. Here’s what it suggests: God's Presence: The altar symbolizes God’s presence and his dwelling place with His people. Unity & Perfection: The square shape and the number 12 suggest a perfect, unified relationship with God. It indicates a whole and complete covenant. A Covenant of Cleansing: The verse is often interpreted as a promise that God will purify and cleanse His people. This large, square altar suggests a deep level of purification and cleansing. In short, it's a visual representation of a powerful and significant covenant between God and Israel – one marked by completeness and a new way of life. --- Do you want to explore any of these aspects in more detail? For example: Would you like me to explain the symbolism behind the number 12? Are you curious about how this verse relates to the story of Israel's exodus from Egypt?

Definition: And the settle [shall be] fourteen [cubits] long and fourteen broad in the four squares thereof; and the border about it [shall be] half a cubit; and the bottom thereof [shall be] a cubit about; and his stairs shall look toward the east.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:17. It's a really fascinating and symbolic description of God’s relationship with a person named Moses (who is also referred to as “the man of God”). Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a special, consecrated area where God will dwell. Let’s unpack the details: “Ezekiel 43:17” : This is the verse itself – a specific passage from the Book of Ezekiel. “And the settle [shall be] fourteen [cubits] long and fourteen broad in the four squares thereof…” : "Settle" means to place or arrange something. So, this describes how the area will be arranged. It's saying that the area should be a rectangular shape with sides of 14 cubits (approximately 14 feet) long and 14 broad (approximately 14 feet wide). It’s a precise and measured layout. “And the border about it [shall be] half a cubit; and the bottom thereof [shall be] a cubit about…” : "Half a cubit" is a unit of measurement in ancient times – roughly equivalent to 12 inches (about 30 cm). This means the area around this rectangular space will be 12 inches wide. Similarly, “a cubit about” means it’s approximately 12 inches deep. “And his stairs shall look toward the east.” : This is the most important part and what makes it so symbolic. It indicates that God will always stand in a specific direction – to the east. The “stairs” represent a pathway or connection to God, and looking towards the east signifies a focus on God's presence and guidance. So, putting it all together: God is establishing a sacred space – a rectangular area – specifically designed for his dwelling and interaction with Moses. It’s not just any arrangement; it’s a carefully planned and measured one where the boundary will be defined by a 12-inch wide border, and God will always face eastward. The Significance: This verse is a powerful image of God's presence and plan. It signifies that God is establishing a relationship with Moses, and that this space will be used for communion and guidance. It’s a significant moment in the book of Ezekiel, representing a key step in God’s plan to bring about his purposes. In short: This verse describes a dedicated area where God will dwell, organized with specific dimensions and a constant direction – reflecting a profound connection between God and His people. --- Would you like me to: Explain any of these terms further? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes?

Definition: And he said unto me, Son of man, thus saith the Lord GOD; These [are] the ordinances of the altar in the day when they shall make it, to offer burnt offerings thereon, and to sprinkle blood thereon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 43:18. It’s a pretty interesting and symbolic passage about God’s covenant with Israel. Here's a simple explanation: What it means in plain English: “God says to me, ‘Son of man, these are the rules for building temples – specifically, for making them and offering blood sacrifices on them.’” Let’s unpack it further: "God says..." : This establishes that this is a direct instruction from God himself. "...these are the ordinances of the altar..." : “Ordinances” means rules or customs. “The altar” refers to a temple – a sacred building for worship and sacrifice. "...in the day when they shall make it..." : This tells us this is happening before the construction of a new temple begins. It’s about preparing for something significant. “Day” here means a specific time, likely a future time. "...to offer burnt offerings thereon" : “Burnt offerings” refers to sacrifices – things offered to God in remembrance and devotion. "...and to sprinkle blood thereon." : This is the crucial part. "Sprinkle blood" isn't about literal blood; it’s a symbolic act of atonement and purification. It means offering blood as a sign of repentance, forgiveness, and making things right with God. What’s the significance? This verse paints a picture of a very serious covenant – a binding agreement between God and his people. It's about: Sacrifice and Redemption: God is offering a way to make amends for sin and restore his relationship with Israel. Purification: The blood symbolizes washing away sins and bringing a cleansed state. Communion with God: It’s a direct invitation for the people to come closer to God through worship and obedience. In short, it's a foundational piece of understanding about how God intends to establish a relationship with his people and offer forgiveness. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 43? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel’s history? Answer any specific questions you have about it?