Ezekiel 45:14

Concerning the ordinance of oil, the bath of oil, [ye shall offer] the tenth part of a bath out of the cor, [which is] an homer of ten baths; for ten baths [are] an homer:

Concerning the ordinance {H2706} of oil {H8081}, the bath {H1324} of oil {H8081}, ye shall offer the tenth part {H4643} of a bath {H1324} out of the cor {H3734}, which is an homer {H2563} of ten {H6235} baths {H1324}; for ten {H6235} baths {H1324} are an homer {H2563}:

The law for olive oil is to be half a gallon from every fifty gallons, which is the same as ten bats or one homer, since ten bats equal a homer.

The prescribed portion of oil, measured by the bath, is a tenth of a bath from each cor (a cor consists of ten baths or one homer, since ten baths are equivalent to a homer).

and the set portion of oil, of the bath of oil, the tenth part of a bath out of the cor, which is ten baths, even a homer (for ten baths are a homer);

Commentary

Ezekiel 45:14 details a specific regulation concerning the offering of oil within the visionary temple described by the prophet Ezekiel. This verse is part of an extensive set of instructions for the future sanctuary, emphasizing the meticulous order and precise requirements for worship and the sustenance of the priestly service.

Context

This verse is situated within Ezekiel chapters 40-48, which present a highly detailed prophetic vision of a new temple, its ordinances, and the re-allotment of the land of Israel. This section is often interpreted as a literal blueprint for a future temple, a symbolic representation of God's dwelling among His people (perhaps even the Church), or an idealized picture of God's perfect order. The regulations for offerings, like the oil specified here, are not arbitrary but reflect divine standards for holiness, provision, and the proper functioning of the sanctuary. The precision in these measurements underscores the importance of order and dedication in serving God.

Key Themes

  • Precision and Order in Worship: The meticulous detail given to the measurements of oil (and other offerings in the chapter) highlights God's desire for exactness and adherence to His divine instructions in all matters of worship and service.
  • Stewardship and Provision: The requirement for the people to provide these offerings underscores their responsibility in sustaining the temple and its services. It teaches the principle of giving back to God from what He has graciously provided.
  • Holiness and Sanctification: The entire temple complex and its ordinances are designed to promote holiness and to distinguish the sacred from the common. The careful handling and accurate measurement of offerings contribute to maintaining this sacred distinction.

Linguistic Insights

The verse employs specific ancient Hebrew units of measurement:

  • Bath: A liquid measure, approximately 5.8 gallons (about 22 liters).
  • Cor / Homer: These are equivalent dry measures, typically about 6.5 bushels (about 220 liters). The verse clarifies, "for ten baths are an homer," establishing a direct relationship between the liquid and dry measures for the purpose of this particular offering.

The instruction "the tenth part of a bath out of the cor" means that for every cor (or homer) of produce, one-tenth of a bath of oil was to be offered. This precise ratio ensured a consistent and substantial contribution of oil, which was vital for various temple services, including lamps and anointing.

Significance and Application

While the specific regulations for oil offerings are part of a visionary temple system that was ultimately fulfilled in Christ's perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10), the underlying principles remain highly relevant for believers today:

  • Dedication and Generosity: Just as the people were required to provide a specific, proportionate offering, believers are called to offer their best to God. This includes not only material possessions but also our time, talents, and whole selves, as a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1). The precision here speaks to intentional and systematic giving.
  • Order in Service: God values order, intentionality, and excellence in our worship and service. This applies to how we conduct church affairs, our personal spiritual disciplines, and our stewardship of resources.
  • Dependence on God's Provision: The act of offering was a recognition that all provision comes from God. Our giving is a response to His prior generosity and a testament to our trust in Him.
  • Symbolism of Oil: In Scripture, oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit. While not explicitly stated here, the emphasis on the offering of oil can metaphorically remind us of the need to be filled with the Spirit and to use His gifts in humble and dedicated service to God's kingdom.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

No cross-references found.

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