Ezekiel 40:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And behold a wall on the outside of the house round about, and in the man's hand a measuring reed of six cubits long by the cubit and an hand breadth: so he measured the breadth of the building, one reed; and the height, one reed.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A wall surrounds the house; the measuring reed is described and the building's breadth and height are given.
The Context of Ezekiel 40:5
The vision provides detailed measurements for a reconstructed sanctuary.
What Does Ezekiel 40:5 Mean?
The temple structure is enclosed by a protective outer wall running around it. The measuring reed itself is defined precisely: six cubits plus one handbreadth (about 10.5 feet), the standard used throughout the architectural description to follow.
The building's width and height are each one reed, meaning approximately 10.5 feet. This unit of measurement allows readers to reconstruct the exact proportions, emphasizing that this is a blueprint for rebuilding.
Ezekiel 40:5 in the Original Language
qaneh (קָנֶה), 'reed' — a measuring instrument, but also a plant used as a standard for length; symbolizes straightness and proper order in construction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 40:5
What does Ezekiel 40:5 mean?
A wall surrounds the house; the measuring reed is described and the building's breadth and height are given.
What is the context of Ezekiel 40:5?
The vision provides detailed measurements for a reconstructed sanctuary.