Ezekiel 41:22 – “There was a wooden altar three cubits high and two cubits square; its corners, its base, and its sides were of wood. The man said to me, ‘This is the table that is before the Lord.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Ezekiel 41:22 describes a wooden altar inside the temple, noting its dimensions and design. The altar was three cubits high and two cubits square, made entirely of wood, including its corners, base, and sides. The man guiding Ezekiel identifies the altar as “the table that is before the Lord.” This suggests that the altar served a dual purpose—it was a place for offerings and a symbolic table for fellowship with God. The description highlights the importance of reverence and purpose in the items placed within the temple, underscoring that everything was designed for worship and connection with God.
Historical Context
In ancient Israelite worship, altars were central to offering sacrifices and expressing devotion to God. The Tabernacle and Solomon’s temple both had altars made of bronze or stone for burnt offerings and incense (Exodus 27:1-8, 1 Kings 7:48). This wooden altar in Ezekiel’s vision reflects the simplicity and symbolic nature of the temple described. During the Babylonian exile, when the Israelites were separated from their place of worship, this vision reminded them of the sacred relationship between God and His people. The reference to the altar as a “table” suggests fellowship and the restoration of communion with God.
Theological Implications
The wooden altar represents the connection between worship, sacrifice, and fellowship with God. It is a reminder that God provides a way for His people to approach Him and express their devotion. The designation of the altar as “the table that is before the Lord” emphasizes the idea of communion with God, where worship is not just an act of duty but a relational experience. This verse also teaches that worship requires intentional preparation and sacred space, reflecting the holiness of God.
Literary Analysis
Ezekiel 41:22 uses precise details to describe the altar, emphasizing its measurements and material. The repetition of wood as the primary material reflects simplicity and functionality, while the phrase “the table that is before the Lord” adds a relational and sacred dimension to its purpose. The balance between practical design and deep symbolism is consistent with the broader vision of the temple in Ezekiel, where every element serves a spiritual purpose.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:23-30: The Table of the Bread of Presence in the Tabernacle symbolized fellowship and God’s provision.
- Leviticus 6:12-13: The altar of burnt offering was central to Israelite worship, representing devotion and atonement.
- Psalm 23:5: God prepares a table for His people, symbolizing fellowship and provision.
- Hebrews 10:12-14: Jesus offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the purpose of the altar.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Ezekiel 41:22 reminds us of the centrality of worship and fellowship with God. The altar symbolizes the importance of offering our lives to God as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) and seeking communion with Him in every part of our lives. This verse challenges us to view worship as both sacred and relational, where we honor God’s holiness while also experiencing His presence and provision.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The altar, described as “the table that is before the Lord,” reflects God’s love and His desire for relationship with His people. It shows that God makes a way for His people to approach Him, offering both the means of atonement and the opportunity for fellowship. The design of the altar underscores that God values connection with His people, inviting them to worship and commune with Him in a sacred and meaningful way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus fulfills the symbolism of the altar as the ultimate sacrifice and the means of communion with God. Through His death on the cross, Jesus became the perfect offering for sin (Hebrews 10:12-14), removing the need for physical altars. At the same time, Jesus invites us to fellowship with Him, symbolized in the Lord’s Supper, where the bread and cup remind us of His sacrifice and presence (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). Jesus embodies the altar’s dual purpose as both a place of sacrifice and a table of communion.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the description of the altar challenge you to view worship as both sacred and relational?
- In what ways can you offer your life as a living sacrifice to God?
- How does Jesus’ role as the ultimate sacrifice change your understanding of the altar’s significance?
- What steps can you take to deepen your communion with God in daily life?
- How does this passage encourage you to see worship as an opportunity to both honor God and experience His presence?