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 special offering
The phrase "special offering" in Hebrew is "terumah," which refers to a contribution or offering set apart for a sacred purpose. In the context of ancient Israel, offerings were a vital part of worship and covenant relationship with God. They symbolized dedication, gratitude, and acknowledgment of God's provision. The "special offering" here signifies a unique or set-apart gift, emphasizing the holiness and reverence due to God in worship.

you are to offer
The directive "you are to offer" indicates a commandment given to the Israelites. The Hebrew verb "qarab" means to bring near or present, often used in the context of sacrifices and offerings. This reflects the active participation of the people in their worship and covenant duties. It underscores the principle that worship involves intentional and obedient action, not merely passive observance.

a sixth of an ephah
An "ephah" is an ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. The specification of "a sixth of an ephah" indicates a precise and measured offering, highlighting the importance of order and obedience in worship. This precision reflects God's desire for His people to approach Him with intentionality and care, ensuring that their offerings are both meaningful and compliant with His instructions.

from each homer of wheat
A "homer" is a larger unit of measure, approximately 220 liters or about 58 gallons. The mention of "wheat" as part of the offering is significant, as wheat was a staple food and a symbol of sustenance and provision. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, offering wheat represented giving back to God from the firstfruits of one's labor, acknowledging Him as the ultimate provider.

and a sixth of an ephah from each homer of barley
Barley, like wheat, was a fundamental crop in ancient Israel. It was often used as food for both people and animals. The inclusion of barley in the offering signifies the comprehensive nature of the people's dedication to God, encompassing all aspects of their livelihood. The repetition of "a sixth of an ephah" for both wheat and barley underscores the uniformity and fairness in the requirements for offerings, reflecting God's just and equitable nature.

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.