Ezekiel 43:20 (KJV) - 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.

This verse comes from the book of Ezekiel in the Old Testament, specifically from a vision that Ezekiel had of the new temple. The entire vision of the new temple is found in Ezekiel 40-48, and it describes the detailed measurements and structure of the temple, as well as the priestly duties and offerings that are to be performed there. The context of Ezekiel 43:20 is part of the instructions given to the priests for the consecration and purification of the altar in the new temple.

In order to understand the meaning and commentary of this verse, it is important to consider the broader context of the entire book of Ezekiel and the historical and cultural background of the Israelites during the time of Ezekiel.

The book of Ezekiel was written during a period of exile for the Israelites, after the Babylonian conquest of Judah and the destruction of the first temple in Jerusalem. The exiled Israelites were living in Babylon, and Ezekiel prophesied to them about the impending judgment of God upon their nation, as well as the hope of restoration and the promise of a new temple. The vision of the new temple in Ezekiel's prophecy was a symbol of hope and restoration for the exiled Israelites, as it promised a future return to their land and the reestablishment of their worship and religious practices.

In the context of Ezekiel 43:20, the instructions for the purification of the altar symbolize the renewal and restoration of the priesthood and the religious rituals in the new temple. The use of blood for purification was a common practice in ancient Israelite religious ceremonies, and it symbolized the atonement for sins and the restoration of relationship with God. By putting the blood on the four horns of the altar and the four corners of the settle, and upon the border round about, the priests were symbolically cleansing and purging the altar, preparing it for the worship and sacrifices that would take place there.

The themes present in Ezekiel 43:20 include purification, atonement, and restoration. The process of cleansing and purging the altar with the blood signifies the removal of impurity and the renewal of the sacred space for worship. This theme of purification and atonement is central to the Jewish religious practices and beliefs, as they understood the need for a right relationship with God and the removal of sin and impurity in order to approach Him.

Furthermore, the symbolism of the altar and the temple in Ezekiel's vision represents the ultimate restoration of the Israelites' relationship with God and their return to their land. The construction and consecration of the new temple symbolize the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people and dwell among them once again. The purification of the altar is a crucial part of this restoration process, emphasizing the importance of holiness and purity in the worship of God.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 43:20 conveys a powerful message of hope, restoration, and renewal for the exiled Israelites. The instructions for the purification of the altar symbolize the atonement for sin and the restoration of the sacred space for worship in the new temple. The broader context of Ezekiel's prophecy and the historical background of the Israelites provide a deeper understanding of the significance of this verse. Ultimately, Ezekiel 43:20 serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His desire for His people to be purified and restored in their relationship with Him.