Ezekiel 46:11

At the festivals and appointed feasts, the grain offering shall be an ephah with a bull, an ephah with a ram, and as much as one is able to give with the lambs, along with a hin of oil per ephah.

Study Bible

At the festivals and appointed feasts
This phrase refers to the sacred times set by God for the Israelites to gather and worship. The Hebrew word for "festivals" is "חַג" (chag), which implies a pilgrimage feast, a time of joy and celebration. "Appointed feasts" translates from "מוֹעֵד" (moed), meaning a fixed time or season, often associated with divine appointments. These times were not merely cultural traditions but divinely instituted occasions for worship, reflection, and community. They remind us of the importance of setting aside regular times to honor God, recognizing His sovereignty over time and history.

the grain offering
The grain offering, or "מִנְחָה" (minchah) in Hebrew, was a tribute to God, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and the acknowledgment of God's provision. It was an offering of gratitude and dedication, representing the work of human hands consecrated to the Lord. In a spiritual sense, it calls believers to offer their daily work and efforts to God, recognizing Him as the source of all blessings.

shall be an ephah with a bull, an ephah with a ram
An "ephah" is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. The specific mention of an ephah with a bull and a ram indicates the substantial nature of the offering, reflecting the worshiper's devotion and the significance of the occasion. The bull and the ram were valuable animals, symbolizing strength and leadership, and their inclusion in the offering underscores the importance of giving God our best.

and with the lambs as much as one is able to give
This phrase introduces a principle of proportional giving, where the offering of lambs is based on the individual's capacity. It highlights the grace and flexibility in God's requirements, acknowledging that not everyone has the same resources. This principle encourages believers to give according to their means, emphasizing the heart's willingness over the quantity of the gift.

along with a hin of oil per ephah
A "hin" is a liquid measure, approximately 3.7 liters or about one gallon. Oil was a valuable commodity in ancient times, used for anointing, cooking, and lighting. The inclusion of oil in the offering signifies the richness and completeness of the sacrifice. It symbolizes the Holy Spirit's presence and the anointing that comes from God. The combination of grain and oil in the offering points to a holistic dedication of both material and spiritual resources to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book. His visions and prophecies often focus on the restoration of Israel and the temple.

2. Festivals and Appointed Feasts
These are special times set by God for the Israelites to gather, worship, and offer sacrifices. They include Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and others.

3. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, often consisting of flour, oil, and frankincense. It symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving to God.

4. Ephah
A unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons.

5. Hin
A unit of liquid measure, approximately 3.7 liters or about 1 gallon, used for offerings.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
The detailed instructions for offerings highlight the importance of worship and dedication to God. Worship should be intentional and heartfelt.

Generosity in Giving
The phrase "as much as one is able to give" emphasizes the principle of giving according to one's ability. This teaches us to be generous and willing in our offerings to God.

Symbolism of Sacrifices
The grain and oil offerings symbolize sustenance and the Holy Spirit. They remind us of our dependence on God for both physical and spiritual nourishment.

Consistency in Faith
The regularity of the festivals and offerings teaches us the importance of consistency in our faith practices, encouraging us to maintain regular times of worship and reflection.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points to Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of all offerings. This encourages us to see Jesus as the center of our worship and devotion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the festivals and appointed feasts in Ezekiel 46:11 reflect the character and priorities of God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "as much as one is able to give" in our own lives today?

3. How does the concept of regular offerings and sacrifices in the Old Testament relate to our modern-day practices of worship and giving?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure consistency in our worship and devotion to God?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines the various feasts and festivals of Israel, providing context for the appointed times mentioned in Ezekiel 46:11.

Numbers 28-29
These chapters detail the offerings required for different festivals, similar to the instructions given in Ezekiel.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the new covenant.