◄ Ezekiel 46 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Prince’s Offerings 1“This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘The gate of the inner court that faces east must be kept shut during the six days of work, but on the Sabbath day and on the day of the New Moon it shall be opened. 2The prince is to enter from the outside through the portico of the gateway and stand by the gatepost, while the priests sacrifice his burnt offerings and peace offerings. He is to bow in worship at the threshold of the gate and then depart, but the gate must not be shut until evening. 3On the Sabbaths and New Moons the people of the land are also to bow in worship before the LORD at the entrance to that gateway. 4The burnt offering that the prince presents to the LORD on the Sabbath day shall be six unblemished male lambs and an unblemished ram. 5The grain offering with the ram shall be one ephah,a and the grain offering with the lambs shall be as much as he is able, along with a hin of oil per ephah. 6On the day of the New Moon he shall offer a young, unblemished bull, six lambs, and a ram without blemish. 7He is to provide a grain offering of an ephah with the bull, an ephah with the ram, and as much as he is able with the lambs, along with a hin of oil per ephah. 8When the prince enters, he shall go in through the portico of the gateway, and he shall go out the same way. 9When the people of the land come before the LORD at the appointed feasts, whoever enters by the north gate to worship must go out by the south gate, and whoever enters by the south gate must go out by the north gate. No one is to return through the gate by which he entered, but each must go out by the opposite gate. 10When the people enter, the prince shall go in with them, and when they leave, he shall leave. 11At 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. 12When the prince makes a freewill offering to the LORD, whether a burnt offering or a peace offering, the gate facing east must be opened for him. He is to offer his burnt offering or peace offering just as he does on the Sabbath day. Then he shall go out, and the gate must be closed after he goes out. 13And you shall provide an unblemished year-old lamb as a daily burnt offering to the LORD; you are to offer it every morning. 14You are also to provide with it every morning a grain offering of a sixth of an ephahb with a third of a hin of oilc to moisten the fine flour—a grain offering to the LORD. This is a permanent statute. 15Thus they shall provide the lamb, the grain offering, and the oil every morning as a regular burnt offering.’ 16This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘If the prince gives a gift to any of his sons as an inheritance, it will belong to his descendants. It will become their property by inheritance. 17But if he gives a gift from his inheritance to one of his servants, it will belong to that servant until the year of freedom; then it will revert to the prince. His inheritance belongs only to his sons; it shall be theirs. 18The prince must not take any of the inheritance of the people by evicting them from their property. He is to provide an inheritance for his sons from his own property, so that none of My people will be displaced from his property.’” The Courts for Boiling and Baking 19Then the man brought me through the entrance at the side of the gate into the holy chambers facing north, which belonged to the priests, and he showed me a place there at the far western end 20and said to me, “This is the place where the priests shall boil the guilt offering and the sin offering, and where they shall bake the grain offering, so that they do not bring them into the outer court and transmit holiness to the people.” 21Then he brought me into the outer court and led me around to its four corners, and I saw a separate court in each of its corners. 22In the four corners of the outer court there were enclosed courts, each forty cubits long and thirty cubits wide.d Each of the four corner areas had the same dimensions. 23Around the inside of each of the four courts was a row of masonry with ovens built at the base of the walls on all sides. 24And he said to me, “These are the kitchens where those who minister at the temple will cook the sacrifices offered by the people.” Footnotes: 5 a An ephah is approximately 20 dry quarts or 22 liters (probably about 38.3 pounds or 17.4 kilograms of grain); also in verses 7 and 11. 14 b A sixth of an ephah is approximately 3.3 dry quarts or 3.7 liters (probably about 4.2 pounds or 1.9 kilograms of flour). 14 c Or a third of a hin of olive oil; that is, approximately 1.3 quarts or 1.2 liters 22 d The enclosed courts were approximately 70 feet long and 52.5 feet wide (21.3 meters long and 16 meters wide). Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 46 Summary The Prince's Offerings Verses 1–3 – Sabbath and New Moon Worship for the Prince The eastern inner gate stays shut on ordinary days but opens on Sabbaths and New Moons. The prince stands in the gateway as priests present his offerings. He bows there, then departs, while the gate remains open so the people can worship before the LORD. Verses 4–8 – Regular Offerings on Sabbaths On Sabbaths the prince provides six flawless lambs and one ram, with a grain offering of one ephah for the ram and as much grain as he chooses for the lambs, plus a hin of oil per ephah. The prince’s pathway through the east gate is unique, yet his sacrifices benefit all Israel. Verses 9–12 – Worship Regulations for the People Festival attendees must exit through the gate opposite the one they entered, creating order and equal access. The prince worships among them and follows the same flow. Any freewill or peace offerings he brings follow the same pattern as his Sabbath offerings. Verses 13–15 – Daily Morning Burnt Offering Every morning the priests offer an unblemished year-old lamb with one-sixth ephah of grain and one-third hin of oil—an unbroken aroma of devotion before God. Verses 16–18 – The Prince’s Land and Inheritance Rights Land gifts to a son become permanent inheritance, but gifts to a servant revert to the prince in the Year of Freedom, protecting family property lines. The prince must never seize land from the people. Verses 19–24 – Temple Kitchens for Priests and Levites Ezekiel sees kitchens for priests to boil guilt and sin offerings and other rooms where Levites prepare the people’s meals. These areas prevent holy meat from being carried into the outer court, preserving purity and preventing crowding. Ezekiel 46 is a part of a larger prophetic vision concerning the future of worship in Israel. It provides a detailed outline for the people and the prince's sacrificial rituals, setting clear guidelines for worship. These divine regulations not only instruct worship practices but also emphasize the principles of leadership, stewardship, and social justice. Historical and Prophetic Backdrop Ezekiel’s vision came in exile, 573 BC. With temple and king gone, the detailed plans promise restored worship and God’s return (Ezekiel 43:1–7). Order replaces the chaos that led to judgment (Ezekiel 8–11). The Prince: Identity and Role Called “prince,” not “king,” he is likely a future descendant of David (Ezekiel 34:23; 37:24). He submits to God’s rules, supplies offerings, and worships alongside the people—leadership expressed through service. Gate Rituals and Symbolism • East gate: glory entered here (Ezekiel 43:4). • Closed on weekdays, open on holy days: holiness guarded yet accessible. • Opposite-gate exit: worshippers leave changed. Sacrifices and Offerings: Then and Future Sabbath offerings echo Numbers 28, while daily lamb recalls Exodus 29. All point forward to Christ, “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29; Hebrews 9:22). Orderly Worship: Echoes of the Torah Precise grain and oil measures balance devotion and anointing (1 Corinthians 14:40). Regularity guards against drift. Inheritance Laws and Fairness The Year of Freedom (cf. Leviticus 25) keeps leaders from land-grabs (Micah 2:1–2; Deuteronomy 17:17). God defends family inheritance. Sacred Space: Temple Kitchens and Holiness Separate kitchens keep sacred meat from common areas. Believers today, as “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), guard everyday life from contamination while serving others. Connections with Other Scriptures • Sabbath worship: Isaiah 66:23. • Daily offering restored: Daniel 8:11 reversed. • Righteous ruler: Zechariah 14:9–11. • Open gates in glory: Revelation 21:25. Archaeology and Geography Gate complexes like those at Megiddo mirror Ezekiel’s six-chamber gates. Oversized temple footprint hints at a yet-future structure surpassing Solomon’s and Herod’s. Royal “lmlk” jar handles from Judah illustrate state-sponsored provisions, akin to the prince’s offerings. Living Application for Today God values regular, heartfelt worship and just leadership. He invites prince and commoner alike to approach through the same open gate of grace. Daily surrender (Romans 12:1) keeps the altar burning, while the still-shut East Gate reminds us that God opens doors in His perfect time. Connections to Additional Scriptures Leadership in Worship 1 Timothy 4:12 - Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Consistency in Worship Hebrews 10:25 - Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Reverence for God Psalm 95:6 - Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. Justice and Fairness Micah 6:8 - He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Daily Devotion Psalm 5:3 - In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice; at daybreak I lay my plea before You and wait in expectation. Teaching Points The Role of the Prince Ezekiel 46:2 states, The prince is to enter from the outside through the portico of the gateway and stand by the gatepost. The prince's role in worship highlights leadership in spiritual matters and the importance of setting an example in worship. Sabbath and New Moon Offerings Verses 3-6 describe the offerings to be made on the Sabbaths and New Moons. These regular offerings remind us of the importance of consistent worship and dedication to God. Order and Reverence in Worship The detailed instructions for entering and exiting the temple (verses 9-10) underscore the need for order and reverence in worship, reflecting God's holiness and our respect for His presence. Provision for the People In verses 16-18, the prince is instructed not to take any inheritance from the people, ensuring that the people’s rights and provisions are protected. This reflects God's justice and care for His people. Daily Offerings The daily offerings mentioned in verses 13-15 emphasize the importance of daily devotion and the continual acknowledgment of God's presence in our lives. Practical Applications Leadership in Worship Just as the prince led by example, we are called to lead others in worship through our actions and dedication to God. Consistency in Worship Regular worship, whether through church attendance or personal devotion, is vital for spiritual growth and maintaining a close relationship with God. Reverence for God Approach worship with a heart of reverence and respect, recognizing the holiness of God and the privilege of being in His presence. Justice and Fairness Ensure that our actions reflect God's justice, caring for others and respecting their rights and provisions. Daily Devotion Incorporate daily practices of prayer, reading Scripture, and worship to keep our focus on God and His will for our lives. People 1. The Prince The prince is a central figure in Ezekiel 46, responsible for leading the people in worship and making offerings. He is mentioned multiple times, such as in Ezekiel 46:2, "The prince is to enter from the outside through the portico of the gateway and stand by the gatepost." The Hebrew term used here is "נָשִׂיא" (nasi), which can mean a leader or ruler, often interpreted as a messianic figure or a representative leader of the people. 2. The People of the Land This term refers to the general population of Israel who participate in the worship and offerings. In Ezekiel 46:3, it states, "On the Sabbaths and New Moons, the people of the land are to worship in the presence of the LORD at the entrance of that gateway." The Hebrew phrase "עַם הָאָרֶץ" (am ha'aretz) is used, indicating the common people or inhabitants of the land. 3. The Priests Although not explicitly named in every verse, the priests are implied as the ones conducting the sacrifices and offerings. Ezekiel 46:20 mentions, "He said to me, 'This is the place where the priests will cook the guilt offering and the sin offering and bake the grain offering, so that they do not bring them into the outer court and transmit holiness to the people.'" The Hebrew word "כֹּהֲנִים" (kohanim) is used for priests, who are responsible for the temple rituals. Places 1. The East Gate This gate is significant as it is the place where the prince enters and exits during the Sabbath and New Moon offerings. The gate is to remain shut on the six working days but is opened on the Sabbath and the day of the New Moon (Ezekiel 46:1-2). The Hebrew term for gate is "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar), indicating a place of entry and exit. 2. The Inner Court The inner court is where the prince stands by the gatepost during the offerings. It is a sacred area within the temple complex where certain rituals are performed (Ezekiel 46:2). The Hebrew word for court is "חָצֵר" (chatser), referring to an enclosed space. 3. The North Gate The people of the land are instructed to worship at the entrance of this gate before the LORD on the Sabbaths and New Moons (Ezekiel 46:3). This gate serves as a point of access for the people to participate in worship. 4. The South Gate Similar to the North Gate, the South Gate is another entrance where people can come to worship. It is mentioned in the context of the prince's movements during the offerings (Ezekiel 46:9). 5. The Temple Kitchen This area is designated for the priests to boil the guilt and sin offerings and to bake the grain offerings. It is located within the temple complex and serves a practical purpose in the preparation of offerings (Ezekiel 46:20). The Hebrew term for kitchen is "מִבְשָׁל" (mivshal), indicating a place for cooking. Events 1. The Eastern Gate's Sabbath and New Moon Protocols The chapter begins with instructions regarding the eastern gate of the inner court. It is to remain shut on the six working days but is to be opened on the Sabbath and the day of the New Moon (Ezekiel 46:1). The Hebrew word for "Sabbath" is "שַׁבָּת" (Shabbat), indicating a day of rest and worship. 2. The Prince's Worship Practices The prince is to enter through the portico of the gateway and stand by the gatepost while the priests offer his burnt offerings and peace offerings. He is to worship at the threshold of the gate and then go out, but the gate is not to be shut until evening (Ezekiel 46:2). 3. Offerings on the Sabbath Specific offerings are prescribed for the Sabbath day, including six lambs without blemish and a ram without blemish (Ezekiel 46:4). The Hebrew term for "without blemish" is "תָּמִים" (tamim), meaning complete or perfect. 4. Offerings on the New Moon On the day of the New Moon, the prince is to offer a young bull without blemish, six lambs, and a ram, all without blemish (Ezekiel 46:6). 5. Daily Offerings A daily offering of a lamb a year old without blemish is to be made every morning, along with a grain offering (Ezekiel 46:13-14). 6. The Prince's Inheritance The prince is instructed not to take any of the people's inheritance by evicting them from their property. Instead, he is to give his sons their inheritance from his own property (Ezekiel 46:18). 7. The Kitchens for Sacrificial Offerings The chapter concludes with a description of the kitchens where the priests are to boil the sacrifices of the people (Ezekiel 46:24). The Hebrew word for "boil" is "בָּשַׁל" (bashal), indicating the preparation of food. Lessons from Ezekiel 46 1. The Importance of Worship and Rest Ezekiel 46 emphasizes the significance of the Sabbath and the New Moon as special times for worship and rest. These days are set apart for the people to come before the Lord with offerings and praise. "The people of the land shall also worship at the entrance of that gate before the LORD on the Sabbaths and New Moons" (Ezekiel 46:3). This reminds us of the importance of setting aside regular time to rest and focus on our relationship with God, allowing us to recharge spiritually and physically. 2. Consistency in Offering The chapter highlights the regularity of offerings, with specific instructions for daily, Sabbath, and New Moon sacrifices. This consistency teaches us the value of maintaining a steady rhythm in our spiritual practices. Just as the prince was to offer a lamb each morning (Ezekiel 46:13), we too can benefit from daily devotionals or prayer times, ensuring our faith remains vibrant and active. 3. The Role of Leadership in Worship Ezekiel 46 outlines the responsibilities of the prince in leading worship, showing us the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to set an example in their devotion and service to God. "The prince shall enter by way of the portico of the gateway and shall go out the same way" (Ezekiel 46:8). This serves as a reminder that those in positions of authority should lead with integrity and humility, guiding others in their spiritual journey. 4. The Significance of Order and Structure The detailed instructions for offerings and worship in Ezekiel 46 highlight the importance of order and structure in our spiritual lives. God is a God of order, and having a structured approach to our faith can help us stay focused and disciplined. By establishing routines and practices, we create a framework that supports our spiritual growth and development. 5. The Power of Community Worship The chapter underscores the communal aspect of worship, with the people gathering together to honor God. "The people of the land shall also worship at the entrance of that gate before the LORD" (Ezekiel 46:3). This reminds us of the strength and encouragement found in worshiping together as a community, where we can support one another and grow in faith collectively. 6. The Symbolism of Gates Ezekiel 46 frequently mentions gates, which symbolize access to God's presence. The prince and the people enter through specific gates to offer their worship. This imagery reminds us that Jesus is the gate through which we enter into a relationship with God. As Jesus said, "I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved" (John 10:9). 7. The Balance of Tradition and Heartfelt Worship While Ezekiel 46 provides detailed instructions for worship, it also reminds us that true worship comes from the heart. The rituals and traditions are important, but they must be accompanied by genuine devotion and love for God. This balance ensures that our worship is both meaningful and sincere, honoring God in spirit and truth. 8. The Reminder of God's Provision The offerings described in Ezekiel 46 serve as a reminder of God's provision and blessings. As the people brought their sacrifices, they acknowledged God's faithfulness and generosity. This encourages us to recognize and give thanks for the many ways God provides for us, fostering a spirit of gratitude and trust in His care. 9. The Call to Holiness The chapter's emphasis on specific offerings and times of worship calls us to a life of holiness and dedication to God. By setting apart time and resources for God, we demonstrate our commitment to living according to His will. This pursuit of holiness is a lifelong journey, guided by the Holy Spirit and grounded in Scripture. 10. The Hope of Restoration Ezekiel 46 is part of a larger vision of restoration and renewal for God's people. It offers hope that, despite past failures, God is always working to restore and redeem. This assurance encourages us to trust in God's promises and look forward to the ultimate restoration through Jesus Christ, who makes all things new. Topics 1. The Prince and the Sabbath Offerings This section outlines the specific instructions for the prince regarding offerings on the Sabbath. The prince is to enter by the way of the portico of the gateway and stand by the gatepost while the priests offer his burnt offering and peace offerings. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:1-2 ^ 2. The People’s Worship on the Sabbaths and New Moons The passage describes how the people of the land are to worship at the entrance of the same gateway on the Sabbaths and New Moons. This emphasizes communal worship and the importance of these holy days. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:3 ^ 3. The Prince’s Offerings on the New Moons Specific offerings that the prince is to present on the New Moons are detailed, including a young bull, six lambs, and a ram, all without blemish. This highlights the significance of purity and dedication in offerings. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:4-6 ^ 4. Daily Offerings Instructions are given for daily offerings, which include a lamb each morning and a grain offering. This underscores the importance of regular, daily worship and devotion. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:13-15 ^ 5. The Prince’s Inheritance The text addresses the inheritance rights of the prince, ensuring that his inheritance remains within his family and does not oppress the people. This reflects the principles of justice and equity. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:16-18 ^ 6. The Kitchens for the Offerings The chapter concludes with a description of the kitchens where the priests will cook the sacrifices. This practical detail ensures the proper handling and preparation of offerings. ^Reference: Ezekiel 46:19-24 ^ Themes 1. Sabbath and New Moon Offerings Ezekiel 46 emphasizes the importance of observing the Sabbath and New Moon with specific offerings. The chapter begins with instructions for the prince to enter the temple through the east gate on these holy days, highlighting the sanctity and regularity of worship. The Hebrew word for Sabbath, "שַׁבָּת" (Shabbat), underscores the concept of rest and holiness. 2. The Role of the Prince The prince has a unique role in worship, as he is given specific instructions on how to enter and exit the temple. This theme reflects the leadership and responsibility of the prince in guiding the people in worship. The Hebrew term "נָשִׂיא" (nasi) for prince indicates a leader or chief, emphasizing his authority and duty. 3. Prescribed Offerings Detailed instructions are provided for the types and quantities of offerings, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings. This theme underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the need for atonement and thanksgiving. The Hebrew word for offering, "קָרְבָּן" (korban), signifies something brought near to God. 4. Worship Order and Structure The chapter outlines a structured approach to worship, with specific times and procedures for offerings. This theme highlights the orderliness and reverence required in approaching God. The Hebrew root "סדר" (seder) implies arrangement and order, reflecting the organized nature of worship. 5. Holiness of the Temple The temple is depicted as a sacred space with specific rules for entry and conduct, emphasizing its holiness. This theme reflects the separation between the sacred and the profane, as well as the need for purity in worship. The Hebrew word "קֹדֶשׁ" (kodesh) for holiness denotes something set apart for God. 6. Inheritance Laws Instructions regarding the prince's inheritance and the distribution of land to his sons and servants are provided, ensuring fairness and preventing oppression. This theme underscores justice and the protection of property rights. The Hebrew term "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah) for inheritance signifies a possession or heritage. 7. Equality in Worship The chapter mentions that the people should worship at the same time as the prince, indicating equality before God. This theme highlights the communal aspect of worship and the equal access to God's presence. The Hebrew root "שוה" (shavah) implies equality and sameness, reflecting the shared experience of worship. Prayer Points Pray for leaders in the church to set a godly example in worship and service. Ask God to help us maintain consistency in our worship and devotion. Seek a heart of reverence and awe for God in all aspects of life. Pray for justice and fairness in our communities, reflecting God's character. Request strength and discipline for daily devotion and spiritual growth. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ezekiel 46:1–2 describes a gate that remains shut during the six working days but opens on the Sabbath; how could such consistent timing be maintained with ancient technology and calendars? 2. Ezekiel 46:2–3 outlines rituals for a “prince” in the temple; why is there no clear historical or archaeological evidence of a ruler fulfilling these specific temple duties? 3. Ezekiel 46:4–8 prescribes animal sacrifices long after the exile; how does this align with other texts that emphasize altered religious practices or question the necessity of sacrifices? 4. Ezekiel 46:9 mandates worshipers to enter and exit by different gates; is there any archaeological trace of such an architectural arrangement in known temple ruins? 5. The entire vision of Ezekiel 46 describes a seemingly ideal temple setup; if it was truly God-ordained, why is there no record of it being constructed either in biblical or extra-biblical sources? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Ezekiel 46 tell us about God's character? 2. How can the rules about Sabbath and New Moon observance apply to our modern observance of rest and worship? 3. How do the detailed instructions for sacrifices reflect on the seriousness of worship? 4. How does the prince's role in the worship mirror Christ's role in Christian worship? 5. What does the prince's duty to provide fair inheritance teach us about leadership and justice? 6. In what ways can the regulations for the prince's inheritance be applied to modern discussions about wealth and social responsibility? 7. How does the emphasis on fair stewardship in this chapter influence your understanding of responsible leadership? 8. What can we learn from the priests' role in handling the guilt and sin offerings? 9. How does the requirement to avoid transmitting holiness to the people through the offerings apply to us today? 10. How do the principles of worship and sacrifice in Ezekiel 46 influence your personal devotion and worship practices? 11. What practical lessons can be drawn from the prince entering and leaving with the people during festivals? 12. What can modern-day leaders learn from the prince’s instructions in Ezekiel 46? 13. How does the detail about the cooking place of offerings help us understand the concept of holiness? 14. How can we apply the principles of worship laid out in Ezekiel 46 to our church services today? 15. How do the principles of justice and leadership in this chapter influence your understanding of civic responsibilities? 16. What significance does the eastern gate of the temple hold and how does it symbolize our approach to worship? 17. How does this chapter challenge our understanding of service, humility, and justice in leadership? 18. How can the daily offerings in Ezekiel 46 guide our daily devotions? 19. How does the emphasis on order and regulations in Ezekiel 46 reflect in our lives and communities today? 20. How do you reconcile the detailed sacrificial systems in Ezekiel with the New Testament teaching of Jesus being the ultimate sacrifice? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions