Ezekiel 43:24 – “You are to offer them before the Lord, and the priests are to sprinkle salt on them and sacrifice them as a burnt offering to the Lord.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
Ezekiel 43:24 provides specific instructions for the consecration of the altar in Ezekiel’s vision. The animals—the young bull and the ram mentioned in the previous verse—are to be presented before the Lord as a burnt offering. The priests are instructed to sprinkle salt on the offerings, which is an important symbolic act. Salt was often used in sacrifices as a sign of purification, preservation, and the covenant relationship between God and His people.
The burnt offering was completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total devotion and surrender to God. This act of offering represents a deep commitment to honor God’s holiness and seek His favor.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, burnt offerings were central to the worship system established by God. They symbolized atonement for sin, dedication to God, and restoration of the covenant relationship. Salt, an essential element in the sacrifices, was also tied to the “salt covenant,” which represented the unbreakable and enduring nature of God’s promises (Numbers 18:19).
Ezekiel delivered this vision to a people in exile, longing for restoration and a renewed relationship with God. The detailed sacrificial instructions provided hope that proper worship would be reestablished, and God’s presence would once again dwell among His people.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological truths:
- Total Surrender: The burnt offering, completely consumed, signifies total devotion and surrender to God.
- Covenant Faithfulness: The inclusion of salt points to the lasting covenant between God and His people, reminding them of His faithfulness.
- Purity in Worship: The sprinkling of salt emphasizes the need for purification in approaching a holy God.
The verse underscores that worship is not a casual act but one that requires reverence, preparation, and alignment with God’s instructions.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses clear, action-oriented language to describe the sacrificial process. The phrase “offer them before the Lord” emphasizes the relational aspect of worship, where sacrifices are not just rituals but acts of devotion to God. The inclusion of salt adds a layer of symbolism, enriching the meaning of the burnt offering.
The instructions are detailed and precise, reflecting the careful and intentional nature of worship that aligns with God’s holiness.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 2:13: Instructions to season all grain offerings with salt, symbolizing the covenant.
- Numbers 18:19: The “salt covenant” as a sign of God’s enduring promises.
- Romans 12:1: Christians are called to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.
- Matthew 5:13: Jesus calls His followers the “salt of the earth,” connecting their role to preserving and influencing the world.
- Hebrews 10:10-14: Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice fulfills the purpose of burnt offerings and purification rituals.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, Ezekiel 43:24 is a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. While physical burnt offerings are no longer required, the principle of total surrender remains central to worship. Believers are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices, dedicating every aspect of themselves to God’s service (Romans 12:1).
The inclusion of salt also challenges Christians to reflect on their role as the “salt of the earth.” Just as salt preserves and purifies, Christians are called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness and influence the world around them for His glory.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instructions for the burnt offering and the use of salt reflect His love and desire for a relationship with His people. The burnt offering symbolizes complete devotion, and the salt reminds us of His enduring covenant and faithfulness. By providing clear guidance for worship, God shows His care for His people, ensuring that they can approach Him in holiness and reverence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezekiel 43:24 points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. The burnt offering, completely consumed, foreshadows Christ’s total surrender in offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. His sacrifice was complete and final, removing the need for repeated offerings (Hebrews 10:10).
The salt in this verse can also symbolize the lasting nature of Christ’s covenant. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus established an eternal covenant, securing forgiveness and reconciliation for all who believe in Him (Hebrews 9:15).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to reflect on your own level of devotion and surrender to God?
- What does the use of salt in this offering teach you about the enduring nature of God’s covenant?
- How does Jesus fulfill the symbolism of the burnt offering described in Ezekiel’s vision?
- In what ways can you live as the “salt of the earth,” reflecting God’s holiness and faithfulness?
- How does understanding the principles of sacrifice and purification deepen your worship and gratitude for Christ’s work?