Ezekiel 41:22

There was an altar of wood three cubits high and two cubits square. Its corners, base, and sides were of wood. And the man told me, "This is the table that is before the LORD."

Study Bible

altar of wood
The Hebrew word for "altar" is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), which traditionally refers to a place of sacrifice and offering. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, the altar being made of wood is significant. Wood, unlike stone or metal, suggests a sense of impermanence and humility. This altar is not for burnt offerings, as in the earlier tabernacle or temple, but rather symbolizes a place of communion and fellowship with God. The use of wood may also point to the humanity of Christ, who is the ultimate altar and sacrifice, emphasizing the connection between the divine and the human.

three cubits high
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The height of three cubits (approximately 4.5 feet or 1.35 meters) suggests a structure that is accessible and approachable, symbolizing the accessibility of God to His people. The number three often represents divine completeness or perfection in the Bible, which may indicate the perfect nature of the worship and communion that this altar facilitates.

two cubits long and wide
The dimensions of two cubits (approximately 3 feet or 0.9 meters) for both length and width create a square shape, which in biblical symbolism often represents stability and equality. This symmetry can be seen as a reflection of God's justice and fairness. The altar's dimensions suggest a balanced and harmonious approach to worship, where all aspects of one's life are brought into alignment with God's will.

Its corners, base, and sides were of wood
The detailed description of the altar's construction emphasizes its unity and integrity. The corners, base, and sides being of wood highlight the consistency and purity of the materials used. In biblical architecture, corners often symbolize strength and foundation, while the base represents support and stability. This construction signifies that the foundation of worship is rooted in the steadfastness and reliability of God's character.

This is the table that is before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates a position of honor and reverence. The altar is described as a "table," which shifts the focus from sacrifice to fellowship. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a table was a place of communion and relationship. This imagery foreshadows the New Testament understanding of the Lord's Table, where believers gather in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and in anticipation of the heavenly banquet. The altar as a table underscores the intimate relationship God desires with His people, inviting them to partake in His presence and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel receives visions from God, including the detailed vision of the new temple.

2. The Temple
The vision of the temple in Ezekiel 40-48 represents a future restoration and the presence of God among His people.

3. The Altar of Wood
A specific piece of furniture in the temple vision, symbolizing worship and sacrifice before the LORD.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents worship and sacrifice, central to the relationship between God and His people. It reminds us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and dedication.

God's Presence
The phrase "before the LORD" emphasizes the significance of God's presence. In our lives, we should prioritize living in a way that acknowledges and honors God's constant presence.

Restoration and Hope
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration. In times of personal or communal exile, we can trust in God's promise to restore and renew.

Worship in Spirit and Truth
The altar's simplicity and material (wood) suggest that true worship is not about elaborate rituals but sincerity and truth, aligning with Jesus' teaching in John 4.

The Role of Sacrifice
While the physical sacrifices of the Old Testament are fulfilled in Christ, the principle of offering ourselves as living sacrifices remains vital (Romans 12:1).

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the altar in Ezekiel 41:22 compare to the altars described in the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple?

2. In what ways does the vision of the temple in Ezekiel provide hope for restoration and renewal in your personal life?

3. How can we apply the concept of living "before the LORD" in our daily routines and decision-making?

4. What does the simplicity of the wooden altar teach us about the nature of true worship?

5. How does the fulfillment of Old Testament sacrifices in Christ influence our understanding of worship and sacrifice today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-27
These chapters describe the construction of the Tabernacle, including the altar, which serves as a precursor to the temple's furnishings.

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings as a shadow of heavenly realities, connecting the Old Testament temple to New Testament theology.

Revelation 21
The vision of the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully realized, echoes the themes of restoration and divine presence found in Ezekiel's temple vision.