Ezekiel 46:5

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.

Ezekiel 46:5 (KJV)

Context

Ezekiel, a prophet taken into exile in Babylon, received visions from God that warned of judgment, encouraged the people, and offered hope for future restoration. In chapters 40 through 48, he sees a detailed vision of a restored temple and its worship, which many understand as pointing to the future millennial reign of the Messiah. Chapter 46 gives regulations for the prince, the people, and the priests concerning their access to the temple and the offerings they must bring.

Meaning

Verse 5 focuses on the grain offering, called the “meat offering” in the King James Version, that accompanies a ram on the Sabbath. The ram was a common animal sacrifice, an act of worship and atonement. The grain offering consisted of fine flour mixed with oil and frankincense, expressing gratitude and dedication to God. The text specifies that for the ram, the offering should be an ephah of flour, a dry-volume measure of about 22 liters or half a bushel. For the lambs, the offering is also an ephah, but the amount is to be given according to what each person is able to provide, literally “the gift of his hand.” In addition, a hin of oil, about 3.7 liters or one gallon, is to be added to each ephah. The oil symbolizes anointing, consecration, and God’s blessing.

Biblical connections

This pattern of an ephah of grain and a hin of oil per ephah is consistent with other offerings described in Ezekiel 45:24 and 46:7, where the same quantities are prescribed for bullocks and rams. The fixed measure for the ram contrasts with the voluntary measure for the lambs, highlighting both the prescribed order of worship and the principle of giving according to one’s ability.

Application

This passage underscores the importance of proper and sufficient offerings in worship. It teaches that God has prescribed measures for the offerings, yet also allows flexibility based on individual ability. The inclusion of oil highlights the dedication and sanctification inherent in the act of giving. While the verse addresses specific practices of the future temple, it reminds believers today to offer their best to God with reverence and generosity, acknowledging His provision.

Reflection

The book of Ezekiel contains many symbolic and prophetic elements, and interpretations may vary among scholars. Therefore, studying the whole of Scripture and seeking guidance from trusted teachers and commentaries is essential for a deeper understanding of its teachings.