46:4 46:4

Ezekiel 46:5

46:6 46:6

Bible Versions

And the meat offering [shall be] an ephah for a ram, and the meat offering for the lambs as he shall be able to give, and an hin of oil to an ephah.
And the meat offering {H4503} shall be an ephah {H374} for a ram {H352}, and the meat offering {H4503} for the lambs {H3532} as he shall be able {H3027} to give {H4991}, and an hin {H1969} of oil {H8081} to an ephah {H374}.
The grain offering is to be a bushel for the ram, while for the lambs it can be as much as he wants to give; with a gallon of olive oil per eifah.
The grain offering with the ram shall be one ephah, and the grain offering with the lambs shall be as much as he is able, along with a hin of oil per ephah.
and the meal-offering shall be an ephah for the ram, and the meal-offering for the lambs as he is able to give, and a hin of oil to an ephah.

Ezekiel 46:5 provides specific regulations for the offerings presented in the visionary temple described by the prophet Ezekiel. This verse details the required quantities for the grain offering (often called "meat offering" in the KJV) accompanying animal sacrifices, specifically for rams and lambs.

Context of Ezekiel 46:5

This verse is part of a detailed vision given to Ezekiel concerning a future temple and its elaborate worship ordinances, beginning in Ezekiel chapter 40. Chapters 40-48 describe the layout of the temple, its priests, sacrifices, and the division of the land. These regulations are distinct from the Mosaic Law given at Sinai, representing either an ideal, never-fully-realized temple, a future eschatological temple (perhaps during a millennial reign), or a symbolic blueprint for God's holy presence and worship. Chapter 46 specifically outlines the duties and offerings of the "prince" and the people on various days, emphasizing meticulous order in divine worship.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order in Worship: The precise measurements prescribed for the grain offering and oil underscore God's demand for order, exactness, and adherence to His instructions in worship. Every detail matters in approaching a holy God.
  • Proportionality in Offerings: The verse specifies a fixed amount (an ephah) for a ram's grain offering but allows for flexibility ("as he shall be able to give") for lambs. This suggests a principle of giving according to one's capacity, balanced with established standards for certain sacrifices.
  • Symbolism of Offerings: The "meat offering" (Hebrew: minchah, meaning grain offering) typically consisted of flour, oil, and frankincense, often accompanying animal sacrifices. These offerings symbolized dedication, thanksgiving, and the sustenance God provides, acknowledging His provision and sovereignty.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "meat offering" can be misleading to modern readers, as it refers to a bloodless offering. The Hebrew word is minchah (מִנְחָה), which more accurately translates to a "grain offering" or "tribute." It was distinct from animal sacrifices. The "ephah" (אֵיפָה) was a standard dry measure, approximately 22 liters, while the "hin" (הִין) was a liquid measure, about 6 liters. These precise units demonstrate the detailed nature of the divine instructions.

Practical Application

While the specific rituals of the temple vision are not directly practiced today, the underlying principles remain significant. This verse reminds us that our worship and service to God should be intentional, thoughtful, and offered with a spirit of excellence. Just as God prescribed specific measures, we are called to offer our best—our time, talents, and resources—in ways that honor Him. The flexibility for the lambs' offering also subtly points to God's understanding of our varying capacities, encouraging us to give according to our ability (see 2 Corinthians 9:7), yet always within a framework of devoted service.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 45:24

    And he shall prepare a meat offering of an ephah for a bullock, and an ephah for a ram, and an hin of oil for an ephah.

  • Ezekiel 46:7

    And he shall prepare a meat offering, an ephah for a bullock, and an ephah for a ram, and for the lambs according as his hand shall attain unto, and an hin of oil to an ephah.

  • Deuteronomy 16:17

    Every man [shall give] as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee.

  • Numbers 28:12

    And three tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one bullock; and two tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one ram;

  • Numbers 6:21

    This [is] the law of the Nazarite who hath vowed, [and of] his offering unto the LORD for his separation, beside [that] that his hand shall get: according to the vow which he vowed, so he must do after the law of his separation.

  • Ezekiel 46:11

    And in the feasts and in the solemnities the meat offering shall be an ephah to a bullock, and an ephah to a ram, and to the lambs as he is able to give, and an hin of oil to an ephah.

  • Ezekiel 46:12

    Now when the prince shall prepare a voluntary burnt offering or peace offerings voluntarily unto the LORD, [one] shall then open him the gate that looketh toward the east, and he shall prepare his burnt offering and his peace offerings, as he did on the sabbath day: then he shall go forth; and after his going forth [one] shall shut the gate.
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