Exodus 27:13
And the breadth of the court on the east side eastward shall be fifty cubits.
Original Language Analysis
הֶֽחָצֵ֗ר
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵ֗ר
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
2 of 7
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
לִפְאַ֛ת
side
H6285
לִפְאַ֛ת
side
Strong's:
H6285
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, mouth in a figurative sense, i.e., direction, region, extremity
קֵ֥דְמָה
on the east
H6924
קֵ֥דְמָה
on the east
Strong's:
H6924
Word #:
4 of 7
the front, of place (absolutely, the fore part, relatively the east) or time (antiquity); often used adverbially (before, anciently, eastward)
Historical Context
The east entrance meant worshipers faced west (toward the Most Holy Place) as they entered, moving from light to greater glory. This orientation also meant the rising sun's light would illuminate the tabernacle entrance each morning.
Questions for Reflection
- How does approaching from the 'east' (sunrise) symbolize Christ as the light through which we enter?
- What does the prescribed entrance direction teach about the exclusivity of Christ as the way to God?
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Analysis & Commentary
The east end (entrance side) also measures 50 cubits but contains the gate. The east faces the rising sun—symbolically appropriate for the entrance, as Christ is the 'Sun of righteousness' (Malachi 4:2) and 'Morning Star' (Revelation 22:16). This entrance side establishes that access comes from a specific direction, according to divine appointment. We don't approach God from any angle but through the prescribed door—Christ.