Ezekiel 46:4

The burnt offering that the prince presents to the LORD on the Sabbath day shall be six unblemished male lambs and an unblemished ram.

Study Bible

On the Sabbaths
The term "Sabbaths" refers to the weekly day of rest and worship instituted by God in the Mosaic Law, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. The Hebrew word "Shabbat" signifies cessation or rest, emphasizing the importance of dedicating time to God and spiritual reflection. Historically, the Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, a day set apart for holiness and rest, reminding the people of God's creation and deliverance.

the prince
In the context of Ezekiel, "the prince" is a significant figure, often interpreted as a leader or ruler in the restored Israel. The Hebrew word "nasi" can mean a leader or chief, and in Ezekiel's vision, the prince has specific roles and responsibilities in the temple worship. This figure is seen as a representative of the people before God, highlighting the importance of leadership that honors and upholds divine ordinances.

shall offer to the LORD
The act of offering "to the LORD" underscores the principle of worship and sacrifice directed towards God. The Hebrew root "qarab" means to bring near or present, indicating the intention of drawing close to God through acts of devotion. This phrase reflects the heart of worship, where offerings are not merely ritualistic but are expressions of reverence and gratitude to the Almighty.

an ephah of flour
An "ephah" is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, approximately equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. The use of flour in offerings symbolizes sustenance and provision, acknowledging God as the provider of all needs. The grain offering, or "minchah" in Hebrew, was a voluntary act of worship, representing the fruits of one's labor and a dedication of daily life to God.

as a grain offering
The "grain offering" was a significant part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving. In Hebrew, "minchah" denotes a gift or tribute, often associated with offerings of gratitude and devotion. This offering was a reminder of God's provision and the worshiper's dependence on Him, fostering a spirit of thankfulness and commitment.

with six ephahs of flour as the grain offering
The specification of "six ephahs of flour" indicates the abundance and generosity expected in the prince's offering. The number six, often associated with human effort and labor, suggests a comprehensive dedication of one's work to God. This detail emphasizes the importance of giving generously and wholeheartedly in worship, reflecting a life fully surrendered to God's purposes.

and a hin of oil
A "hin" is a unit of liquid measure, approximately 3.7 liters or about one gallon. Oil, often used in anointing and offerings, symbolizes the Holy Spirit, consecration, and blessing. The inclusion of oil in the offering highlights the need for spiritual anointing and the presence of God's Spirit in worship. It serves as a reminder of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, empowering and purifying for service to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is known for his visions and prophecies concerning the restoration of Israel and the temple.

2. The Prince
In Ezekiel's vision, the prince is a leader who has specific duties in temple worship, symbolizing leadership and responsibility in spiritual matters.

3. The Sabbath
A holy day of rest and worship, the Sabbath is central to Jewish religious life, symbolizing God's creation rest and covenant with Israel.

4. The Temple
The setting for this offering, the temple represents God's presence among His people and the center of worship and sacrifice.

5. Sacrificial Offerings
The lambs and ram offered are part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Leadership in Worship
The prince's responsibility to offer sacrifices underscores the importance of leadership in guiding and maintaining worship practices.

The Significance of the Sabbath
Observing the Sabbath is a reminder of God's creation and His covenant, encouraging believers to set aside time for rest and worship.

The Symbolism of Sacrifices
The unblemished lambs and ram symbolize purity and dedication, pointing to the need for holiness in our offerings to God.

Christ as the Fulfillment of Sacrifices
The sacrificial system foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice, encouraging believers to find rest and redemption in Him.

Consistency in Worship
Regular offerings on the Sabbath highlight the importance of consistent and faithful worship practices in the life of a believer.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the prince in Ezekiel 46:4 inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways can observing a day of rest and worship, like the Sabbath, impact your spiritual life and relationship with God?

3. How do the unblemished sacrifices in Ezekiel 46:4 point to the need for purity and holiness in our own lives?

4. How does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament find its fulfillment in the New Testament through Jesus Christ?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure consistency and faithfulness in your worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines the Sabbath and other holy days, providing context for the importance of Sabbath offerings.

Hebrews 10
Discusses Christ as the ultimate sacrifice, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant.

Isaiah 56
Highlights the importance of keeping the Sabbath as a sign of faithfulness to God.