Ezekiel 46:7

He 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.

Study Bible

He shall provide
This phrase indicates a command or expectation placed upon the prince or leader. The Hebrew root word here is "נָתַן" (natan), meaning "to give" or "to provide." This reflects the responsibility of leadership in worship, emphasizing the role of the leader in facilitating and ensuring proper worship practices. It underscores the principle that leaders are to be providers and facilitators of spiritual nourishment and offerings to God.

a grain offering
The grain offering, or "מִנְחָה" (minchah) in Hebrew, was a significant part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing the dedication of the fruits of one's labor to God. It represents the offering of one's sustenance and livelihood, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty. This offering was typically made of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, signifying purity, richness, and a pleasing aroma to the Lord.

of an ephah
An ephah is a unit of measurement used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. The use of specific measurements in offerings highlights the importance of order and precision in worship. It reflects the idea that God is a God of order, and our worship should be conducted with intentionality and care.

with the bull
The bull, or "פַּר" (par) in Hebrew, was often used in sacrifices for atonement and purification. It symbolizes strength and service, and its use in offerings underscores the need for a powerful and complete sacrifice to atone for sin. The bull's inclusion in the offering points to the seriousness of sin and the need for a substantial offering to cover it.

an ephah with the ram
The ram, or "אַיִל" (ayil), is another significant sacrificial animal, often associated with consecration and dedication. The ram's use in offerings signifies a commitment to God and a willingness to dedicate oneself wholly to His service. The repetition of "an ephah" with each animal emphasizes consistency and equality in the offerings, reflecting fairness and balance in worship.

and with the lambs
Lambs, or "כֶּבֶשׂ" (keves), are frequently associated with innocence and purity. They are a common sacrificial animal, symbolizing the innocence required for atonement. The lambs' inclusion in the offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

as much as he is able
This phrase introduces an element of flexibility and personal capacity in the offerings. It acknowledges that not everyone has the same resources, and God honors the heart and intention behind the offering rather than the quantity. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to give according to their means and with a cheerful heart.

along with a hin of oil per ephah
A hin is another unit of measurement, approximately 3.7 liters. Oil, or "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), was used in offerings to symbolize the Holy Spirit, anointing, and consecration. The inclusion of oil with the grain offering signifies the need for the Holy Spirit's presence and blessing in our offerings and worship. It reminds believers that true worship is not just about external actions but also about the internal work of the Spirit in our lives.

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 temple described in Ezekiel's vision is a future temple, symbolizing God's presence and the restoration of Israel.

4. Grain Offering
A sacrificial offering made of flour, representing dedication and thanksgiving to God. It is a part of the temple worship described in Ezekiel.

5. Oil
Used in offerings, oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing, playing a significant role in temple rituals.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Offerings
The grain offering symbolizes our dedication and thanksgiving to God. Just as the prince offers what he is able, we are called to give our best to God in worship and service.

Role of Leadership in Worship
The prince's role in offering sacrifices highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding worship and setting an example of devotion.

Generosity in Giving
The phrase "as much as he is able to give" emphasizes the principle of giving according to one's ability, encouraging believers to be generous and willing in their offerings to God.

Anointing and the Holy Spirit
The use of oil in offerings points to the anointing of the Holy Spirit, reminding us of the Spirit's role in empowering and sanctifying our lives and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the prince in Ezekiel 46:7 inform our understanding of leadership in the church today?

2. In what ways can the principle of giving "as much as he is able" be applied to our financial and spiritual offerings to God?

3. How does the symbolism of the grain offering in Ezekiel connect to the New Testament understanding of living sacrifices in Romans 12:1?

4. What is the significance of oil in biblical offerings, and how does it relate to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

5. How can we ensure that our worship and offerings are genuine expressions of thanksgiving and dedication to God, as exemplified in Ezekiel 46:7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2
Provides detailed instructions on grain offerings, highlighting their significance in worship and dedication to God.

Isaiah 61:1-3
Speaks of the anointing of the Spirit, connecting the use of oil in offerings to the empowerment and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Hebrews 10:1-10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, offering a New Testament perspective on the offerings described in Ezekiel.