Ezekiel 45:13

This is the contribution you are to offer: a sixth of an ephah from each homer of wheat, and a sixth of an ephah from each homer of barley.

Study Bible

This is the contribution you are to offer:
This phrase introduces a specific requirement for offerings, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands. In the context of Ezekiel, these instructions are part of the vision for a restored Israel, emphasizing the need for proper worship and dedication to God. The term "contribution" suggests a portion set aside for sacred purposes, reflecting the principle of giving back to God from what He has provided.

a sixth of an ephah from each homer of wheat,
An ephah is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, approximately equivalent to 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. A homer is a larger unit, about 220 liters or 58 gallons. The requirement of a sixth of an ephah from each homer indicates a specific and measurable portion, underscoring the precision and care expected in offerings. Wheat, a staple grain, symbolizes sustenance and provision, and its offering represents gratitude and reliance on God for daily needs. This precise measurement reflects the structured and orderly nature of worship in the temple.

and a sixth of an ephah from each homer of barley.
Barley, another essential grain, was often considered less valuable than wheat but was still a significant part of the diet in ancient Israel. The inclusion of barley in the offering requirements demonstrates that all aspects of provision, whether considered great or small, are to be acknowledged and dedicated to God. This reflects the biblical principle that God values the heart behind the offering more than the material value. The equal measure for both wheat and barley signifies fairness and consistency in worship practices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is known for his visions and messages concerning the restoration of Israel and the temple.

2. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel is prophesying, particularly focusing on their future restoration and the establishment of just practices.

3. The Temple
The context of this passage is the future temple and the offerings that are to be made there, symbolizing worship and dedication to God.

4. Offerings
The specific offerings mentioned in this verse are part of the larger system of sacrifices and offerings that were to be made in the temple.

5. The Exile
The historical backdrop of Ezekiel's prophecies, where the Israelites were in Babylonian captivity, longing for restoration and return to their homeland.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Giving
The specific measurements of offerings highlight the importance of precision and faithfulness in our giving to God. We are called to give our best and follow His instructions carefully.

Symbolism of Offerings
The offerings symbolize dedication and worship. In our lives, we should consider what we are offering to God in terms of our time, resources, and talents.

Restoration and Hope
Ezekiel's message is one of hope and restoration. Even in times of exile or difficulty, God has a plan for renewal and restoration.

Holiness and Worship
The detailed instructions for offerings remind us of the holiness required in worship. Our approach to God should be with reverence and respect.

Community and Responsibility
The communal aspect of offerings in the temple system reflects our responsibility to support and uphold one another in our faith communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of offerings in Ezekiel 45:13 relate to the idea of tithing and giving in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our "offerings" to God (time, resources, talents) are given with the right heart and attitude?

3. How does the promise of restoration in Ezekiel encourage us in our personal times of difficulty or "exile"?

4. What can we learn from the precision and care required in the offerings about our approach to worship and service today?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and shared responsibility in our church or faith group, similar to the communal offerings in the temple?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27
Discusses the laws concerning offerings and tithes, providing a background to the types of offerings mentioned in Ezekiel.

Malachi 3
Speaks about the importance of bringing offerings to God and the blessings associated with faithfulness in giving.

Hebrews 10
Reflects on the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which fulfills the Old Testament sacrificial system, including offerings like those in Ezekiel.