Ezekiel 43:26 - Seven days shall they make atonement for the altar and purify it. So shall they consecrate it.

Generated Verse: Ezekiel 43:26

What does "Ezekiel 43:26" mean?


Ezekiel 43:26, "Seven days shall they make atonement for the altar and purify it. So shall they consecrate it," refers to a specific set of ritual actions that are required for the dedication of the altar in the new temple envisioned by Ezekiel. Let's break down the meaning:

"Seven days shall they make atonement for the altar": This highlights a seven-day period dedicated to atonement. "Atonement" here means making amends for any defilement that might have affected the altar, or cleansing it so that it is deemed acceptable for God's presence and sacrifices. This atonement likely involved sacrificial offerings and other ritualistic acts. This atonement is not necessarily for sins, but for the altar to be made holy.

"and purify it": The purification process reinforces the idea of removing anything unclean or profane from the altar. It ensures that the altar is entirely set apart for its sacred purpose.

"So shall they consecrate it": "Consecrate" means to set apart or dedicate something as holy and for a specific religious purpose. After the atonement and purification, the altar is formally declared sacred and ready for use in the temple rituals.

In summary, the verse describes a prescribed procedure for preparing the altar for service in Ezekiel's envisioned temple. This procedure involves a seven-day process of atonement and purification, culminating in the altar's consecration. This emphasizes the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with what is pure and dedicated.

Symbolic Interpretation:

While the verse is literal within the context of Ezekiel's vision, some interpretations suggest broader symbolic meanings:

Spiritual Cleansing: The process of atonement and purification can be seen as symbolic of the need for spiritual cleansing and renewal before approaching God.
Dedication: The consecration signifies a total commitment and dedication to God's service.
Preparation for Worship: The verse emphasizes the need for proper preparation and reverence in worship.

However, it's important to note that this verse is deeply rooted in the specific ritualistic context of Ezekiel's vision of the restored temple. Therefore, the primary understanding should be within that framework.

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