Ezekiel

Ezekiel's vision is characterized by its symmetry and extent. Vast in scope, it is nevertheless a balanced worldview. While the temple shrine remains a cube 20 x 20 x 20 cubits in Ezekiel's vision, the overall temple height is never stated. It is assumed to have taken the same general exterior form as Solomon's Temple.

Regardless, the plan of Ezekiel's vision bears striking similarity with other such square temple complexes, particularly in Egypt, India, and the later temple of Herod.

Basically, Ezekiel envisions a holy land that is divided into thirteen strips of land--twelve for the Twelve Tribes and one for the Holy Portion. The Holy Portion is divided in three, with the central Holy Portion Proper, measuring 25,000 x 25,000 (no unit is stated).

In turn, the Holy Portion Proper is divided in three. The central most part is the Holy Sanctuary measuring 500 x 500 (compare the Great Pyramid base in Greek measures). In the center of the Holy Sanctuary lies the altar, measuring 12 x 12. As well, the bottom strip contains the Holy City that is also square, measuring 5000 x 5000.

The fundamental point to note is the reappearance of square forms throughout, symbolizing balance, unity, and above all else, order. This is because a square's sides are all equal, as are its angles. This unanimity of parts bespeaks harmony.

While the units themselves differ from most of the other examples we will see here (except for the Holy Sanctuary square), it is important to note the numerical identification of the city with the sanctuary (drop the zeroes). The implication is clear: the people and their god are one. Nothing could be more unifying and "mandala-like" than that.