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H2435 · Hebrew · Old Testament
חִיצוֹן
Chiytsown
Adjective
Outer, external, outside

Definition

The adjective chiytsown means outer or external, contrasted with inner (penimiy). It is used most extensively in Ezekiel's Temple vision to describe the outer court (chatser hachiytsownah), where the general Israelite population gathered, as opposed to the inner court reserved for priests.

Usage & Theological Significance

The distinction between outer and inner courts in Ezekiel 40–48 maps the graduated holiness of God's presence — the closer to the divine glory, the more restricted the access. This spatial theology of holiness shapes the New Testament's understanding of Jesus as the one who tears down the dividing wall (Ephesians 2:14), granting all believers direct access past the outer courts and through the veil into God's very presence. The 'outer darkness' (Matthew 8:12; 22:13) draws on the same contrast: exclusion from the light of God's presence.

Key Bible Verses

Ezekiel 40:17 Then he brought me into the outer court. And behold, there were chambers and a pavement, all around the court.
Ezekiel 44:19 And when they go out into the outer court to the people, they shall put off the garments in which they have been ministering and lay them in the holy chambers.
1 Kings 6:29 He carved all the walls of the house all around with carved engraved figures of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, in the inner and outer rooms.
Ezekiel 46:21 Then he led me out to the outer court and led me around to the four corners of the court.
Ezekiel 42:14 When the priests enter, they shall not go out of the holy place into the outer court without laying there the garments in which they minister.

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