Ezekiel 43:20

You are to take some of its blood and put it on the four horns of the altar, on the four corners of the ledge, and all around the rim; thus you will cleanse the altar and make atonement for it.

Study Bible

You are also to take some of its blood
The phrase "take some of its blood" refers to the sacrificial blood, which in the Hebrew context is "dam" (דָּם). Blood in the Old Testament is a powerful symbol of life and atonement. Leviticus 17:11 states, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood." The use of blood in sacrificial rituals underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of a life given to atone for it. This prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of humanity's sins.

and apply it to the four horns of the altar
The "four horns of the altar" were projections at each corner of the altar, symbolizing strength and power. In ancient Near Eastern culture, horns often represented authority and might. The act of applying blood to these horns signifies the consecration and purification of the altar, making it a holy place where God’s presence could dwell. This act of sanctification is a reminder of the need for purity and holiness in worship.

to the four corners of the ledge
The "four corners of the ledge" refers to the structure surrounding the altar. The number four often symbolizes completeness or universality in biblical numerology. By applying blood to all four corners, the entire altar is cleansed and set apart for God’s purposes. This comprehensive act of purification reflects the thoroughness of God’s cleansing power, which is available to all who seek Him.

and all around the rim
The phrase "all around the rim" indicates that the blood was to be applied in a continuous manner, encircling the altar. This act signifies the encompassing nature of God’s atonement and the completeness of His forgiveness. It serves as a visual representation of the totality of God’s redemptive work, which covers every aspect of sin and impurity.

In this way you will cleanse the altar
The cleansing of the altar is a critical step in preparing it for worship. The Hebrew word for cleanse, "taher" (טָהֵר), implies purification and sanctification. This process is essential for maintaining the holiness required for God’s presence. It is a reminder that God desires purity in worship and that sin must be addressed before approaching Him.

and make atonement for it
The concept of atonement, from the Hebrew "kaphar" (כָּפַר), means to cover or to reconcile. Atonement is central to the relationship between God and His people, as it restores fellowship and removes the barrier of sin. This act of atonement for the altar foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice reconciles humanity to God once and for all. It is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and mercy, providing a way for sinners to be made right with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who received visions and messages during the Babylonian exile, tasked with conveying God's instructions to the Israelites.

2. The Altar
A central element in the temple, used for sacrifices and offerings to God, symbolizing worship and atonement.

3. The Blood
Represents the life force and is used for purification and atonement, signifying the seriousness of sin and the need for cleansing.

4. The Four Horns of the Altar
Protrusions on the altar's corners, symbolizing strength and the power of God’s presence.

5. Atonement
The process of making amends or reparation for sin, restoring the relationship between God and His people.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Blood in Atonement
Blood is central to the process of atonement, symbolizing life and the seriousness of sin. It points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood cleanses us from all sin.

The Holiness of God’s Altar
The altar represents a place of meeting between God and man. Its cleansing signifies the need for purity in worship and the seriousness with which we should approach God.

The Role of Obedience in Worship
Ezekiel’s instructions highlight the importance of following God’s commands precisely. Our worship should be characterized by obedience and reverence.

The Continuity of God’s Plan
The practices in Ezekiel connect to the broader account of Scripture, showing God’s consistent plan for redemption and relationship with His people.

The Power of Atonement
Atonement restores our relationship with God, emphasizing the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of blood in Ezekiel 43:20 relate to the concept of atonement in the New Testament?

2. What does the cleansing of the altar teach us about the nature of worship and our approach to God today?

3. In what ways does the obedience of Ezekiel in following God’s instructions serve as a model for our own spiritual lives?

4. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our worship is characterized by purity and reverence, as symbolized by the cleansing of the altar?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Discusses the Day of Atonement, where blood is used for purification, highlighting the importance of atonement in the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Explains how Christ's sacrifice fulfills the Old Testament requirements for atonement, emphasizing the ultimate cleansing through His blood.

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of the altar, showing the continuity of God's instructions for holiness and worship.

Romans 3
Discusses the concept of atonement through faith in Jesus, connecting the Old Testament practices to New Testament theology.