Ezekiel 46:5

The grain offering with the ram shall be one ephah, and the grain offering with the lambs shall be as much as he is able, along with a hin of oil per ephah.

Study Bible

The grain offering with the ram shall be one ephah
In the context of Ezekiel's vision of the restored temple, the grain offering signifies dedication and thanksgiving to God. An ephah is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, approximately equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. This specific measure for the grain offering with the ram indicates a standard of worship and sacrifice that reflects the order and holiness required in the temple service. The ram, often used in sacrificial offerings, symbolizes strength and leadership, pointing to the need for a strong commitment in worship. This offering aligns with the Levitical laws found in Leviticus 23:13, where specific measures are prescribed for offerings, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands.

and the grain offering with the lambs shall be as much as he is able
This phrase introduces flexibility in the offering, allowing the worshiper to give according to their means. The lamb, a common sacrificial animal, often represents innocence and purity, and is a type of Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The allowance for the offerer to give "as much as he is able" reflects God's understanding and grace towards individual circumstances, encouraging heartfelt worship rather than mere ritual compliance. This principle is echoed in 2 Corinthians 9:7, where Paul writes about giving as one has decided in their heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion.

along with a hin of oil per ephah
A hin is a unit of liquid measure, approximately 3.7 liters or about one gallon. Oil in biblical times was a valuable commodity, used for anointing, cooking, and as a symbol of the Holy Spirit. The inclusion of oil with the grain offering signifies the anointing and presence of the Spirit in the act of worship. This combination of grain and oil offerings is reminiscent of the peace offerings described in Leviticus 2:1-16, where oil is mixed with fine flour, symbolizing the richness and fullness of life in fellowship with God. The precise measure of oil per ephah underscores the importance of balance and completeness in worship, ensuring that offerings are made with sincerity and devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. He receives visions and messages from God concerning the future of Israel and the temple.

2. The Prince
In Ezekiel 46, the prince is a leader who offers sacrifices and worships in the temple. He represents a future leader of Israel, possibly a messianic figure.

3. The Temple
The setting for the offerings described in Ezekiel 46. This temple is part of Ezekiel's vision of a restored Israel and a renewed covenant with God.

4. Offerings
The passage describes specific offerings, including grain offerings and oil, which are part of the worship practices in the temple.

5. The People of Israel
The intended recipients of Ezekiel's message, who are in exile and looking forward to restoration and return to their land.

Teaching Points

Worship and Generosity
The passage emphasizes giving as one is able, highlighting the importance of worshiping God with a generous heart. Our offerings should reflect our gratitude and devotion to God.

Symbolism of Offerings
The grain and oil offerings symbolize sustenance and anointing, pointing to God's provision and blessing. In our lives, we should recognize and give thanks for God's continuous provision.

Role of Leadership in Worship
The prince's role in offering sacrifices underscores the importance of godly leadership in guiding worship and setting an example of devotion to God.

Restoration and Hope
Ezekiel's vision of the temple and offerings points to a future hope and restoration for God's people. We can find encouragement in God's promises of restoration and renewal in our own lives.

Heart of Worship
The emphasis on giving as one is able reminds us that God values the heart behind our worship more than the quantity of our offerings. Our worship should be sincere and heartfelt.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of giving "as much as one is able" challenge or encourage you in your own practice of giving and worship?

2. In what ways do the grain and oil offerings in Ezekiel 46:5 symbolize God's provision in your life today?

3. How can the role of the prince in this passage inform our understanding of leadership within the church?

4. What parallels can you draw between the hope of restoration in Ezekiel's vision and the promises of restoration found in the New Testament?

5. How can we ensure that our worship remains sincere and heartfelt, rather than merely ritualistic or obligatory?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2
Provides detailed instructions on grain offerings, which are a key part of the sacrificial system in the Old Testament. This connection helps us understand the significance of the offerings in Ezekiel 46:5.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, offering a New Testament perspective on the purpose and completion of the Old Testament offerings.

Isaiah 55:1-2
Invites people to come and receive freely from God, paralleling the idea of giving as one is able, emphasizing the heart of worship and generosity.