Ezekiel 43:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And thou shalt take of the blood thereof, and put it on the four horns of it, and on the four corners of the settle, and upon the border round about: thus shalt thou cleanse and purge it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The bull's blood marks the altar's horns and platform, performing ritual cleansing.
The Context of Ezekiel 43:20
The ritual cleansing of the newly constructed altar.
What Does Ezekiel 43:20 Mean?
Blood application to the four horns and corners reaches every part of the altar, symbolizing complete purification. The horns, representing divine strength, receive emphasis; blood on them signifies that God's power now sanctifies the altar. The border and settle receive blood as well, ensuring no space remains unclensed. This comprehensive anointing transforms the newly built structure into sacred space fit for God's people.
Cleansing and purging through blood follows ancient Hebrew ritual theology: blood represents life and carries the power to remove defilement. The four-directional application corresponds to the altar's square shape and the comprehensive nature of restoration. What was built becomes, through this ritual, functionally sanctified and ready for service.
Ezekiel 43:20 in the Original Language
tahor (טָהוֹר), 'cleanse' — to remove ritual impurity and restore to a state of holiness
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezekiel 43:20
What does Ezekiel 43:20 mean?
The bull's blood marks the altar's horns and platform, performing ritual cleansing.
What is the context of Ezekiel 43:20?
The ritual cleansing of the newly constructed altar.