Ezekiel 45:10

You must use honest scales, a just ephah, and a just bath.

Study Bible

You must use honest scales
This phrase emphasizes the importance of integrity and fairness in commerce and daily life. In ancient Israel, scales were used to measure goods for trade, and dishonest scales were a common means of cheating. The call for honest scales reflects God's desire for justice and righteousness among His people. This command aligns with other biblical teachings on honesty, such as in Leviticus 19:36 and Proverbs 11:1, which condemn dishonest practices. The use of honest scales is a metaphor for living a life of integrity, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people.

a just ephah
An ephah is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to about 22 liters or 5.8 gallons. The call for a just ephah underscores the need for fairness in trade and economic transactions. This requirement is part of the broader Mosaic Law, which sought to ensure equity and prevent exploitation. The emphasis on a just ephah is also a reminder of God's concern for the poor and vulnerable, who were often the victims of dishonest practices. This principle is echoed in the prophetic literature, such as Amos 8:5, where God condemns those who manipulate measures to defraud others.

and a just bath
A bath is a unit of liquid measure, approximately 22 liters or 5.8 gallons, similar to the ephah but for liquids. The insistence on a just bath highlights the importance of consistency and fairness in all forms of measurement. This reflects the broader biblical theme of justice and righteousness, as seen in passages like Micah 6:11, where God questions the use of dishonest measures. The call for just measures in both dry and liquid forms indicates a comprehensive approach to justice, covering all aspects of life and commerce. This principle points to the ultimate justice and righteousness found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and embodies God's perfect standard.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel's messages often focused on the restoration of Israel and the importance of holiness and justice.

2. Israel
The nation to whom Ezekiel prophesied, particularly during a time of exile and spiritual renewal.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a time of reflection and transformation for the Jewish people.

4. Temple Worship
The context of Ezekiel's message often relates to the restoration of proper worship practices in the temple.

5. Weights and Measures
The ephah and bath are units of measurement used in trade and temple offerings, symbolizing fairness and integrity.

Teaching Points

Integrity in All Dealings
As followers of Christ, we are called to uphold honesty and fairness in every aspect of our lives, reflecting God's character.

Holiness in Worship and Life
Just as the Israelites were called to purity in temple practices, we are called to live lives of holiness, ensuring our actions align with God's standards.

Justice as a Reflection of God's Nature
God's call for just measures is a reflection of His just nature, and we are to mirror this attribute in our interactions with others.

Community Impact of Righteousness
When we practice fairness and integrity, we contribute to a just society, influencing others towards righteousness.

Spiritual and Practical Balance
The call for honest measures is both a spiritual and practical directive, reminding us that our faith should permeate every area of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call for honest scales in Ezekiel 45:10 reflect God's character, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our business and personal dealings are marked by integrity and fairness?

3. How does the principle of justice in Ezekiel 45:10 connect with the broader biblical theme of justice found in other scriptures like Micah 6:8?

4. What are some modern-day equivalents of "honest scales" that we should be mindful of in our interactions with others?

5. How can practicing fairness and integrity in our lives serve as a witness to others about the nature of God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:35-36
This passage also emphasizes the importance of using honest scales and measures, highlighting God's desire for justice and integrity in all dealings.

Proverbs 11:1
This verse speaks to the abomination of dishonest scales, reinforcing the theme of righteousness in business and personal conduct.

Micah 6:8
While not directly about weights and measures, this verse encapsulates the broader call to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, which aligns with the principles in Ezekiel 45:10.