Ezekiel 41:22 meaning

In the vision of the temple, Ezekiel introduces the altar of incense, a key feature of the sacred space that embodies divine worship. This altar, described as being made of wood rather than gold, suggests a shift in worship practices. It signifies that the spiritual nature of worship will take precedence over the physical elaborations seen in previous temples. The lack of gold overlay on the altar indicates that the offerings made here will be purely spiritual, aligning with the New Covenant's emphasis on internal devotion rather than external ceremonies.

This altar is depicted as a table that stands before the Lord, symbolizing the intimate relationship between God and His people. The dimensions and materials of the altar not only serve functional purposes but also reflect the character of God’s redemptive plan for humanity, which is about accessibility to His presence. This vision serves as a reminder of the restored relationship that believers can experience, rooted in a heart transformation rather than mere ritual. The text reveals that worship and service to God are not confined to physical structures, but are centered on spiritual quality and sincerity as emphasized in Ezekiel 41:22, where the altar becomes a metaphor for our communion with the divine.