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
The Hebrew term for "grain offering" is "minchah," which signifies a gift or tribute. In the context of ancient Israel, it was an offering of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing the dedication of one's labor and sustenance to God. This offering reflects the worshiper's acknowledgment of God's provision and their dependence on Him. It is a reminder of the spiritual nourishment that God provides, paralleling the physical sustenance of grain.

with the ram
The ram, in biblical symbolism, often represents strength and leadership. It was a significant animal in sacrificial rituals, symbolizing atonement and consecration. The inclusion of a grain offering with the ram underscores the completeness of the offering, combining both animal sacrifice and the fruits of the earth, signifying a holistic devotion to God.

shall be an ephah
An ephah is a unit of measurement used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. The specification of an ephah for the grain offering indicates a standard measure, ensuring that the offering is substantial and meaningful. It reflects the principle of giving generously and consistently to God, as He has abundantly provided for His people.

and the grain offering with the lambs
The lambs, often associated with innocence and purity, were central to sacrificial practices, especially in the Passover. The grain offering accompanying the lambs signifies a complementary act of worship, where the purity and innocence of the lamb are paired with the fruits of human labor, creating a complete and pleasing offering to God.

shall be as much as one is able to give
This phrase introduces a principle of proportional giving, emphasizing the heart and willingness of the giver over the quantity. It reflects the biblical teaching that God values the intention and sacrifice behind the offering more than the offering itself. This principle encourages believers to give according to their means, fostering a spirit of generosity and gratitude.

along with a hin of oil per ephah
A hin is another ancient measurement, approximately 3.7 liters or about one gallon. Oil, often symbolizing the Holy Spirit, anointing, and blessing, was a crucial component of offerings. The inclusion of oil with the grain offering signifies the need for divine presence and blessing in the act of worship. It highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in sanctifying and empowering the believer's offering, making it acceptable and pleasing to God.

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.