Ezekiel 43:20 – “You are to take some of its blood and put it on the four horns of the altar and on the four corners of the upper ledge and all around the rim, and so purify the altar and make atonement for it.”

An Extended Explanation of the Verse

Ezekiel 43:20 gives specific instructions for purifying the altar as part of its consecration. The blood from the sin offering is to be applied to key parts of the altar: the horns, the upper ledge, and the rim. This act of applying blood symbolizes purification and atonement, setting the altar apart as a holy place where God’s presence will dwell and where sacrifices for sin will be offered.

The use of blood highlights its role in the sacrificial system as a means of cleansing and reconciling humanity with God. This ceremony demonstrates that even the altar itself, a symbol of worship, must be purified before being used in service to a holy God.

Historical Context

In ancient Israel, the altar was central to worship and the sacrificial system. Blood was a key element in atoning for sin, as it represented life given to cover the penalty of sin (Leviticus 17:11). The purification of the altar was a significant part of its dedication, ensuring that it was fit for use in worship.

Ezekiel delivered this vision during the Babylonian exile, a time when the Israelites were separated from their temple and its rituals. The vision of the restored temple and altar offered hope of renewal and reconciliation with God. These instructions reminded the Israelites of the importance of holiness and obedience in their worship practices.

Theological Implications

This verse underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. Even the altar, a sacred object, required purification before it could be used for worship. This highlights God’s holiness and the need for everything associated with Him to be cleansed and set apart.

The application of blood to the altar shows that reconciliation with God is costly and requires sacrifice. It points to the necessity of approaching God on His terms, acknowledging both His justice and His mercy.

Literary Analysis

Ezekiel 43:20 uses vivid imagery to convey spiritual truths. The specific instructions for applying blood to different parts of the altar emphasize its symbolic role as a place of atonement. The repetition of the word “purify” reinforces the need for cleansing and holiness.

The verse’s focus on the altar’s physical structure—the horns, ledge, and rim—ties its physical design to its spiritual purpose. This connection between the tangible and the spiritual is a recurring theme in Ezekiel’s visions.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Leviticus 8:15: Blood is used to purify the altar during its consecration.
• Exodus 29:36-37: Instructions for purifying the altar with a bull’s blood during its dedication.
• Hebrews 9:22: Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.
• Isaiah 6:6-7: A vision of atonement, where a coal from the altar purifies Isaiah’s lips.
• Revelation 5:9: The blood of Christ purifies and redeems people for God.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians, Ezekiel 43:20 is a reminder of the cost of reconciliation with God. While the physical altar and sacrificial system are no longer central to worship, the principles of purification and atonement remain vital. This verse challenges believers to approach God with humility, recognizing the need for cleansing and the seriousness of sin.

It also points to the necessity of holiness in all aspects of worship. Just as the altar had to be purified, Christians are called to live holy lives as they serve and worship God.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

The requirement for purification of the altar reflects God’s love in providing a way for sinful humanity to approach Him. His holiness demands cleansing, but His love provides the means for it. The act of making atonement demonstrates God’s desire to reconcile with His people and dwell among them.

God’s love is also evident in the care and detail of His instructions, ensuring that worship is meaningful and aligned with His character.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Ezekiel 43:20 points forward to Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice fulfills the need for atonement once and for all. In the Old Testament, the blood of animals was used to purify and make atonement, but these sacrifices were temporary. Jesus, as the Lamb of God, offers a perfect and permanent atonement through His blood (Hebrews 10:10-14).

The purification of the altar foreshadows Christ’s work on the cross, where His blood cleanses not just objects but people, making them holy and acceptable to God. Through Jesus, believers are reconciled to God and can worship Him in spirit and truth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge you to think about the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?
2. What does this verse teach about the importance of purity and holiness in worship?
3. How does Jesus fulfill the purpose of the altar and its purification described in Ezekiel’s vision?
4. In what ways can you approach God with greater humility and gratitude for His provision of forgiveness?
5. How does understanding the role of blood in atonement deepen your appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice?