Ezekiel 43:25

For seven days you are to provide a male goat daily for a sin offering; you are also to provide a young bull and a ram from the flock, both unblemished.

Study Bible

For seven days
The phrase "for seven days" signifies a period of completeness and spiritual perfection in the biblical context. The number seven is often associated with God's creation and covenant, as seen in the seven days of creation in Genesis. This period of seven days for the offerings underscores the importance of thorough purification and dedication to God, reflecting a complete cycle of consecration.

you shall provide
The directive "you shall provide" indicates a commandment given to the Israelites, emphasizing their active role in the sacrificial process. This requirement highlights the responsibility of the people to participate in their own sanctification and the maintenance of their relationship with God. It is a reminder of the covenantal relationship where obedience to God's instructions is paramount.

a male goat as a sin offering
The "male goat as a sin offering" is significant in the sacrificial system of ancient Israel. The Hebrew term for sin offering, "chattat," implies purification from sin and atonement. The male goat, often used in sin offerings, symbolizes the removal of sin and impurity from the community. This offering points to the need for atonement and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who takes away the sins of the world.

each day
The repetition of the offering "each day" for seven days emphasizes the continual need for atonement and the persistent nature of sin. It reflects the daily renewal of commitment to God and the constant need for His grace and forgiveness. This daily ritual serves as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God's mercy.

also a young bull and a ram from the flock
The inclusion of "a young bull and a ram from the flock" alongside the male goat indicates the significance and gravity of the offerings. The young bull, often associated with strength and value, and the ram, a symbol of leadership and sacrifice, together represent a comprehensive offering to God. These animals, being valuable and without blemish, signify the best of what the people could offer, pointing to the need for wholehearted devotion.

without blemish
The requirement that the offerings be "without blemish" underscores the holiness and perfection required in sacrifices to God. This stipulation reflects God's nature as holy and perfect, and the offerings must mirror this standard. It also foreshadows the sinless nature of Christ, the perfect Lamb of God, who was sacrificed for the sins of humanity.

shall be provided
The phrase "shall be provided" indicates the necessity and certainty of the offerings. It reflects God's provision and the assurance that He will accept the offerings when they are made according to His instructions. This provision is a testament to God's faithfulness and the assurance of His presence among His people when they follow His commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. He receives visions from God, including the vision of the new temple described in chapters 40-48.

2. The Temple
The vision of the new temple is central to this passage. It represents God's presence among His people and the restoration of proper worship.

3. Sin Offering
A sacrificial offering made to atone for sin, emphasizing the need for purification and reconciliation with God.

4. Male Goat, Young Bull, and Ram
These animals are specified for the sin offering, each representing different aspects of atonement and dedication to God.

5. Seven Days
The period of consecration and purification, symbolizing completeness and spiritual preparation.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The repeated sin offerings underscore humanity's need for atonement and reconciliation with God. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and provides eternal redemption.

Holiness and Purity
The requirement for animals "without blemish" signifies the importance of holiness and purity in worship. Believers are called to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

The Role of Rituals in Worship
While rituals were central to Old Testament worship, they pointed to deeper spiritual truths. In Christ, believers are invited to worship in spirit and truth, understanding the heart behind the rituals.

The Symbolism of Seven Days
The seven-day period symbolizes completeness and spiritual preparation. Believers are encouraged to engage in regular spiritual disciplines to maintain a close relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Ezekiel 43:25 relate to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ as described in the New Testament?

2. What does the requirement for animals "without blemish" teach us about the nature of our offerings to God today?

3. In what ways can the symbolism of the seven-day consecration period be applied to our spiritual lives and practices?

4. How do the rituals described in Ezekiel 43:25 help us understand the importance of intentionality and reverence in our worship?

5. How can we draw parallels between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the call to live as "living sacrifices" in Romans 12:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on sin offerings, highlighting the importance of atonement and the role of sacrifices in the Old Testament.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of priests, which parallels the seven-day consecration period in Ezekiel 43:25.