Ezekiel 46:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

During festive times and solemn occasions, there shall be an ephah of flour for each bull and each ram, along with a quantity of flour offerings for the lambs corresponding to what each individual can offer, as well as a hin of oil for each ephah. This ruler is referred to in scripture, for he shall pass through the entryway of the gate, entering and exiting through that one gate: he has the liberty to lay down his life and to take it up again. As he comes to us, so too does he ascend to heaven with the same autonomy intrinsic to his majesty. Unlike the people, who observe specific feasts and days, he has no need for such occasions, as every moment is a celebration for him. The people, however, enter and exit during designated feasts and sacred times, but not in the same manner, rather in different ways as commanded.

For it is stated that when the people gather before the Lord at feasts, the one entering through the northern gate should exit through the southern gate, and vice versa. This command is not only for those departing from Sodom, who are instructed not to look back, but also for those in the house of the Lord, reminding them to refrain from returning to weak materialities. They ought to continue in the Spirit, advancing rather than regressing. They should echo the words of the Apostle: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, so that they can reach a state of maturity—attaining the fullness of what human nature may achieve as aligned with the Gospel, which teaches that once one has fulfilled their obligations, they should say, "We are unworthy servants; we have only done what we ought to have done."

The Apostle, in the same letter, speaks of two levels of perfection: he notes that he has not yet reached it, despite his endeavors, yet he continues to pursue that which he has grasped in Christ. Immediately afterward, he asserts: “Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,” highlighting the need for continuous striving toward the highest calling. If we are indeed perfect, we should be wise in this understanding. This creates a delicate balance, as the same person who claims not to have arrived at completion also encourages us to pursue perfection. Thus, it becomes evident that each individual and creation, though having achieved a measure of perfection, still relies on God's mercy, receiving true completeness through grace rather than through deeds.

Therefore, the command to the people is clear: if they approach to worship by the northern gate, they must depart through the southern gate. This instruction pertains to the Gentiles, who, having exited from the northern gate—where wickedness brews on the earth—enter the temple and are required to proceed only through the southern gate, which symbolizes light and warmth. In the same metaphor, the Song of Songs expresses: "Arise from the north and go forth from the south." Conversely, those who enter by the southern gate should exit by the northern gate. This is directed toward the Jews, who, having transitioned from the gate of light, proceed to the northern gate, which is known for its fierce wind. In a similar metaphor, the cauldron in Jeremiah is heated from the north.

Another perspective highlights that one who turns away from sin enters through the northern gate, while one who embraces virtue exits by the southern gate. Conversely, if a righteous person succumbs to sin, despite entering through the southern gate, they must exit through the northern gate. The ruler shall be present among both groups—the entering and the departing—consistent with the declaration that “He stands in the midst of you, whom you do not know.” The Apostle adds, “Or do you not know that Christ is in you?” If it is stated that Christ dwells among those unaware of his presence, how much more so for those who do acknowledge him? For when Christ is among those who are aware, the body becomes dead to sin, while the spirit thrives in righteousness. The ruler enters alongside those who enter and exits with those who leave, serving as a witness to both righteousness and transgression.

Therefore, during feasts and holy occasions, specifically on the Sabbath and throughout other solemn days, there should be an ephah of flour offered for every bull and ram. The quantity of lambs remains unspecified and should not be prescribed individually. Rather, whoever possesses strength and a clear conscience should contribute not dictated by desire, but by ability, alongside a hin of oil for each ephah, so that the offering may be anointed, and the lamp will shine before the Lord. The proposer may then declare: “But I am like a fruitful olive tree in the house of God.”