Ezekiel 46:5 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 46:5 mean?

Ezekiel 46:5 gives specific instructions for offerings in the temple, stating that when a ram is offered, the accompanying grain offering should be an ephah (a set measure), and for lambs, the amount of grain offering depends on what the giver can provide, with a set amount of oil (a hin) for each ephah of grain. This verse sets out the portions for different sacrifices during worship.

In this part of Ezekiel, God is giving the prophet Ezekiel detailed rules for temple worship, directed toward the leaders and people of Israel in a future restored temple. The verse highlights both fixed and flexible requirements: the ram’s grain offering is fixed, but for lambs, there is allowance for the worshiper’s ability. The mention of specific measures like "ephah" and "hin" shows the practical, organized nature of these instructions.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 46:5

• אֵיפָה (ephah, "ephah"): This is a Hebrew unit of dry measure, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. Its use here shows the set quantity expected for the grain offering with a ram.
• כֶּבֶשׂ (keves, "lambs"): The word refers specifically to young sheep, and the verse allows flexibility ("as he shall be able to give") for the amount of grain offering with lambs, showing consideration for the worshiper's means.
• הִין (hin, "hin"): This is a Hebrew liquid measure, about 3.8 liters or one gallon. The instruction to add a hin of oil to each ephah of grain offering emphasizes the careful proportions in the ritual.
• יָדוֹ (yado, "able"): This word literally means "his hand," and in this context, it is often understood as "according to his ability," highlighting that the offering for lambs can vary depending on what the person can afford.

Why Ezekiel 46:5 matters

• Ezekiel 46:5 clarifies that worship in the temple involved both fixed and flexible offerings, balancing order with compassion for individual circumstances.
• The verse shows attention to fairness and accessibility, allowing those with fewer resources to participate in worship without being overburdened.
• This instruction fits into a larger section where Ezekiel describes a future temple and its rituals, emphasizing the importance of both structure and mercy in approaching God.