Ezekiel 45:16

Ezekiel 45:16 is part of a detailed prophetic vision given to the prophet Ezekiel concerning a future temple, its services, and the reordering of the land and governance in Israel. This specific verse highlights the communal responsibility of the people to support the "prince" in his duties related to the sacrificial system.

Context

Chapters 40-48 of Ezekiel describe an elaborate vision of a new temple and the sacred ordinances within it, often understood as a blueprint for the millennial kingdom. Chapter 45 specifically delineates the holy portion of the land, the sanctuary, and the roles of the priests and the prince. The "oblation" mentioned in verse 16 refers to the specific contributions of grain, oil, and sheep outlined in Ezekiel 45:13-15, which are designated for the regular burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings necessary for the temple rituals. The prince, in this vision, is not a king in the traditional sense but a leader responsible for maintaining the purity and order of worship, providing the necessary sacrifices for the people.

Key Themes

• Communal Responsibility: The verse emphasizes that the entire community ("all the people of the land") has a part to play in maintaining the sacred order and supporting the spiritual leadership. It's a collective endeavor, not solely the burden of the prince or priests.
• Support for Leadership: It underscores the principle of providing for those who oversee the spiritual and governmental affairs, ensuring they have the resources to fulfill their divine mandates. This echoes principles found in the Mosaic Law concerning support for the priesthood (e.g., Numbers 18:21).
• Order and Righteousness: The meticulous details throughout Ezekiel's temple vision, including the system of offerings and contributions, reflect God's desire for perfect order, justice, and righteousness in His future kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "oblation" translates the Hebrew term terumah (תְּרוּמָה), which literally means "a raised gift" or "a heave offering." It signifies a portion that is lifted up or set apart as a contribution, particularly for sacred purposes. In this context, it refers to the dedicated contributions from the people that are then used by the prince to provide the public sacrifices, ensuring the proper functioning of the temple worship.

Practical Application

While Ezekiel's temple vision is highly symbolic and prophetic, pointing to a future era, the principle of communal support for spiritual leadership and the work of God remains relevant. This verse reminds believers of the importance of:

• Contributing to God's Work: Just as the people in Ezekiel's vision were to provide for the temple services, believers today are called to support the spread of the Gospel and the ministries that advance God's kingdom.
• Honoring Leadership: It highlights the biblical principle of honoring and providing for those in spiritual authority who faithfully serve and lead God's people (compare with 1 Timothy 5:17).
• Participating in Worship: True worship is not just an individual act but often involves communal participation and responsibility, ensuring that the means for corporate worship are available and maintained.

Ezekiel 45:16 ultimately points to a future time of perfected worship and divine order, where the people willingly participate in sustaining the righteousness and holiness commanded by God.