Ezekiel 40:9

Authorized King James Version

Then measured he the porch of the gate, eight cubits; and the posts thereof, two cubits; and the porch of the gate was inward.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֜מָד
Then measured
properly, to stretch; by implication, to measure (as if by stretching a line); figuratively, to be extended
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
וְאֻלָ֥ם
and the porch
a vestibule (as bound to the building)
#4
הַשַּׁ֖עַר
of the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#5
שְׁמֹנֶ֣ה
eight
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#6
אַמּ֑וֹת
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#7
וְאֵילָ֖ו
and the posts
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
#8
שְׁתַּ֣יִם
thereof two
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#9
אַמּ֑וֹת
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#10
וְאֻלָ֥ם
and the porch
a vestibule (as bound to the building)
#11
הַשַּׁ֖עַר
of the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#12
מֵהַבָּֽיִת׃
was inward
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ezekiel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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