Ezra 6:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →At the dedication they offer many sacrifices, including twelve goats as a sin offering for all twelve tribes of Israel.
What Does Ezra 6:17 Mean?
The dedication is marked by generous offerings: a hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs, and twelve goats for a sin offering, one for each tribe. Though only a remnant had returned, the twelve goats embraced all Israel, the whole covenant people.
The sin offering acknowledged that even at a moment of joy, the people needed atonement to stand before a holy God. By numbering the goats to the twelve tribes, they confessed that none of God's people was forgotten. This longing for full atonement points ahead to the one sacrifice that cleanses all who come to God through Him.
Ezra 6:17 in the Original Language
chattath (חַטָּאת), 'sin offering' -- a sacrifice given to make atonement and cleanse from sin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 6:17
What does Ezra 6:17 mean?
At the dedication they offer many sacrifices, including twelve goats as a sin offering for all twelve tribes of Israel.