Ezekiel 46:6 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 46:6 mean?

Ezekiel 46:6 describes the specific animal offerings required on the day of the new moon: a young bull without blemish, six lambs, and a ram, all without blemish. This verse sets out the ritual sacrifices that were to be made as part of Israel’s worship during special occasions in the temple.

In this part of Ezekiel, God is giving the prophet detailed instructions about temple worship for the people of Israel, focusing on the kinds of sacrifices to be brought on the new moon, which marked the beginning of each month in the Hebrew calendar. The emphasis on animals “without blemish” highlights the need for offerings to be perfect and unblemished, showing respect and honor in worship.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 46:6

• The word for “day” is יוֹם (yom, H3117), which here refers to a specific, recurring time—the new moon celebration.
• The word for “moon” is חֹדֶשׁ (chodesh, H2320), meaning “new moon” or “month,” pointing to the monthly festival that marked the start of a new month in the Hebrew calendar.
• The word for “young bullock” is בֶּן־בָּקָר (ben-bakar, H1121, H1241), literally “son of a bull,” meaning a young bull, signifying a valuable and strong animal for sacrifice.
• The word for “without blemish” is תָּמִים (tamim, H8549), meaning “complete” or “perfect,” stressing that the animals offered must be free from any defect.

Why Ezekiel 46:6 matters

• Ezekiel 46:6 clarifies that the new moon was a significant occasion in Israel’s worship, with its own set of sacrificial requirements distinct from regular Sabbaths or other festivals.
• The repeated mention of “without blemish” underscores the importance of bringing the best to God, not just any animal, which reflects the seriousness and reverence expected in worship.
• This verse connects to the broader section in Ezekiel where detailed temple regulations are given, showing the order and structure God intended for worship in the restored temple.