Ezekiel 45:14

The prescribed portion of oil, measured by the bath, is a tenth of a bath from each cor (a cor consists of ten baths or one homer, since ten baths are equivalent to a homer).

Study Bible

The prescribed portion of oil
In the context of Ezekiel's vision of the restored temple, the prescribed portion of oil signifies the offerings required for temple worship. Oil was a valuable commodity in ancient Israel, used for anointing, lighting, and as a part of grain offerings. This prescription underscores the importance of maintaining the temple's rituals and the people's dedication to God.

measured by the bath
The bath was a standard unit of liquid measurement in ancient Israel, approximately equivalent to 5.8 gallons or 22 liters. This precise measurement indicates the structured and orderly nature of worship in the temple, reflecting God's desire for order and precision in His instructions to His people.

is a tenth of a bath from each cor
A cor was a larger unit of measurement, and a tenth of a bath from each cor represents a tithe or a portion set aside for sacred purposes. This reflects the biblical principle of giving a portion of one's resources back to God, as seen in other scriptures like Leviticus 27:30 and Malachi 3:10, emphasizing stewardship and devotion.

(a cor consists of ten baths or one homer, since ten baths are equivalent to a homer)
This parenthetical explanation provides clarity on ancient measurements, showing the relationship between different units. A homer was a larger measure used for dry goods, equivalent to ten baths. This detailed explanation highlights the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the importance of understanding His commands fully. It also reflects the interconnectedness of the community's offerings, as each individual's contribution was part of a larger whole, symbolizing unity and collective worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel's messages often focused on the restoration of Israel and the proper worship of God.

2. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel prophesied, particularly concerning their return to proper worship and adherence to God's laws.

3. The Temple
The context of this passage involves instructions for offerings and worship in the future temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

4. The Bath and Homer
Ancient units of measurement used for liquids and dry goods, respectively, indicating the precision and order God desires in worship.

5. Offerings
The context of this passage is about the offerings that the Israelites were to bring, symbolizing their dedication and obedience to God.

Teaching Points

Precision in Worship
God desires order and precision in worship, reflecting His nature and our respect for Him.

Faithfulness in Giving
The prescribed portions remind us of the importance of being faithful in our giving, as an act of worship and trust in God's provision.

Symbolism of Offerings
Offerings symbolize our dedication and obedience to God, pointing to a heart fully surrendered to Him.

Support for Ministry
Just as the offerings supported the temple and its priests, our giving supports the work of the church and those who serve in ministry.

Heart of Generosity
Our approach to giving should be marked by generosity, reflecting God's own generosity towards us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision in the measurements of offerings in Ezekiel 45:14 reflect God's character and expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of faithful giving in our own lives today, as seen in Ezekiel 45:14 and related scriptures?

3. How do the offerings described in Ezekiel 45:14 connect to the broader biblical theme of supporting those who serve in ministry?

4. What does Ezekiel 45:14 teach us about the importance of order and structure in our worship practices?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of generosity in our giving, inspired by the principles found in Ezekiel 45:14 and other related passages?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27
Discusses various offerings and tithes, emphasizing the importance of giving to God as an act of worship and obedience.

Numbers 18
Details the portions of offerings designated for the priests, highlighting the support of those who serve in God's house.

Malachi 3
Speaks about tithes and offerings, encouraging faithfulness in giving and the blessings that follow.

2 Corinthians 9
Discusses the principles of generous giving, reflecting a heart aligned with God's purposes.