And one lamb out of the flock, out of two hundred, out of the fat pastures of Israel; for a meat offering, and for a burnt offering, and for peace offerings, to make reconciliation for them, saith the Lord GOD.
EZEKIEL 45:15KJVWhat does Ezekiel 45:15 mean?
Ezekiel 45:15 describes a specific requirement for offerings in Israel: one lamb from every two hundred in the flocks, taken from the rich pastures, is to be given as a meat offering, burnt offering, and peace offering to make reconciliation for the people, as commanded by the Lord GOD. This verse sets out part of the system for worship and atonement in the restored temple vision Ezekiel is describing.
In this passage, God is speaking through the prophet Ezekiel to the people of Israel, outlining detailed instructions for offerings that will be made in the future temple. The verse highlights the importance of specific, proportional contributions from the people’s livestock, emphasizing both the communal responsibility and the seriousness of maintaining right relationship with God through these sacrifices.
The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 45:15
- "lamb" (שֶׂה, seh): This word refers to a young sheep, which was a common animal used in Israelite sacrifices. Its use here underlines the expectation of giving valuable, healthy animals from the flock.
- "reconciliation" (כָּפַר, kaphar): This word means "to cover" or "to make atonement." In this context, it points to the purpose of the offerings: to restore or maintain a right relationship between the people and God.
- "offering" (מִנְחָה, minchah), "offering" (עֹלָה, olah), "offerings" (שֶׁלֶם, shelem): These three words refer to different types of sacrifices—grain or gift offerings, burnt offerings, and peace offerings—each with its own role in worship and reconciliation.
Why Ezekiel 45:15 matters
- This verse clarifies that the offerings are not random but are proportionate and systematic, showing fairness and shared responsibility among the people.
- Ezekiel 45:15 connects to the larger passage where God is giving detailed instructions for worship in the future temple, emphasizing order and holiness in approaching God.
- The mention of "reconciliation" highlights that these rituals are not just tradition but are meant to restore and maintain the relationship between Israel and God.