“In that day shall be upon the bells of the horses, Holiness Unto The Lord; and the pots in the Lord's house shall be like the bowls before the altar.”

The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament that records the visions and prophecies given to Ezekiel, a priest and prophet, during the Babylonian captivity of Israel. The book is full of symbolic visions and messages that speak to the spiritual condition of Israel at the time, the judgment that was coming upon them, and the hope of restoration and redemption.

Ezekiel 48:22 is the concluding verse of the book, and it speaks of a future day when holiness will be pervasive in the land. The mention of “the bells of the horses” and “the pots in the Lord’s house” may seem obscure at first, but when we delve into the context and symbolism of these images, we can discover a deep and profound message.

The mention of “the bells of the horses” points to the idea of consecration and dedication. In ancient times, bells were often used on horses to signal their presence and announce their approach. Here, the bells of the horses are to bear the inscription “Holiness Unto The Lord”. This reflects the idea that everything, even the seemingly mundane and ordinary, should be dedicated to the Lord and used for His glory. It is a call for every aspect of life to be consecrated to God, not just the religious rituals or ceremonies, but also the everyday activities and objects.

The mention of “the pots in the Lord’s house” being like “the bowls before the altar” also carries a significant message. In the Old Testament, the bowls before the altar were used in the sacrificial rituals as vessels for offering and worship. They were sanctified and set apart for a holy purpose. Similarly, the pots in the Lord’s house should be regarded with the same reverence and sanctity. This alludes to the idea that the mundane and ordinary utensils used in the service of God are to be treated with the same reverence and sanctity as the sacred vessels.

The overall message of this verse is one of holiness and consecration. It speaks to the importance of dedicating every aspect of our lives to God and viewing everything we do as an act of worship. Whether it is the bells on a horse or the pots in the Lord’s house, everything should bear the inscription of “Holiness Unto The Lord”. It is a call to live a life that is wholly dedicated to God, recognizing His presence in every aspect of our lives.

In a broader context, this verse can also be seen as a vision of the future restoration and redemption of Israel. Throughout the book of Ezekiel, there are prophecies of judgment and destruction for the sins of Israel, but there are also promises of restoration and renewal. This verse can be seen as a glimpse of the future when Israel will be restored to a state of holiness and righteousness, and when every aspect of their lives will be dedicated to the Lord.

Symbolically, the bells of the horses and the pots in the Lord’s house can also represent the people of Israel themselves. Their consecration and dedication to the Lord will be evident for all to see, and their lives will be lived with a sense of holiness and reverence. It speaks to the transformation that will take place in the hearts of the people, leading them to live lives that are pleasing and honoring to God.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 48:22 is a powerful and resonant verse that speaks to the idea of holiness and consecration. It calls for every aspect of our lives to be dedicated to God, as symbolized by the bells of the horses and the pots in the Lord’s house. It also carries a message of hope and restoration, pointing to a future time when holiness will be pervasive in the land. It is a call for us to live lives that are wholly dedicated to God, recognizing His presence in every aspect of our lives and living in a way that brings honor and glory to Him.