Ezekiel 40:31

Authorized King James Version

And the arches thereof were toward the utter court; and palm trees were upon the posts thereof: and the going up to it had eight steps.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֵלַמָּ֗ו
And the arches
a pillar-space (or colonnade), i.e., a pale (or portico)
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
חָצֵר֙
court
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
#4
הַחִ֣צוֹנָ֔ה
thereof were toward the utter
properly, the (outer) wall side; hence, exterior; figuratively, secular (as opposed to sacred)
#5
וְתִמֹרִ֖ים
and palm trees
(architectural) a palm-like pilaster (i.e., umbellate)
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
אֵילָ֑ו
were upon the posts
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
#8
וּמַעֲל֥וֹת
steps
elevation, i.e., the act (literally, a journey to a higher place, figuratively, a thought arising), or (concretely) the condition (literally, a step o
#9
שְׁמוֹנֶ֖ה
to it had eight
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#10
מַעֲלָֽו׃
thereof and the going up
an elevation, i.e., (concretely) acclivity or platform; abstractly (the relation or state) a rise or (figuratively) priority

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ezekiel.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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