Ezekiel 45:6

As the property of the city, you are to set aside an area 5,000 cubits wide and 25,000 cubits long, adjacent to the holy district. It will belong to the whole house of Israel.

Study Bible

As the property of the city
This phrase indicates a specific allocation of land designated for urban purposes. In the Hebrew context, the word for "property" (אֲחֻזָּה, 'achuzzah) often refers to a possession or inheritance. This suggests a divinely ordained portion, emphasizing God's sovereignty in distributing the land. The "city" here is likely Jerusalem, the spiritual and administrative center of Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

you are to set aside
The directive to "set aside" (תִּתְּנוּ, titen) implies a deliberate and sacred act of dedication. This is not merely a practical allocation but a spiritual one, reflecting the importance of obedience to God's commands. The act of setting aside land for a specific purpose underscores the principle of holiness and separation for divine use, a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

an area 5,000 cubits wide and 25,000 cubits long
The specific dimensions given here (5,000 by 25,000 cubits) highlight the precision and orderliness of God's plans. A cubit, an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches, indicates a substantial area. This precision reflects God's meticulous nature and His desire for order in the community. Historically, such measurements would have been significant for the Israelites, who understood the importance of land as a divine gift and a means of sustenance and identity.

adjacent to the holy district
The term "adjacent" (עַל, al) signifies proximity and connection to the "holy district," which is the area set apart for the temple and priestly activities. This proximity to the holy district underscores the importance of the city being near the center of worship and spiritual life. It reflects the idea that civic life should be closely linked to spiritual life, with the presence of God at the heart of the community.

it will belong to the whole house of Israel
This phrase emphasizes inclusivity and unity among the Israelites. The "whole house of Israel" (כָּל־בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל, kol-bet Yisrael) indicates that this land is not for a select few but for the entire nation. It reflects God's covenant relationship with all of Israel, highlighting themes of community, shared inheritance, and collective responsibility. This allocation serves as a reminder of God's promises and the unity of His people under His divine rule.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and a key figure in delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The House of Israel
Refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen people, who are the recipients of the land allocation described in this passage.

3. The Holy District
A designated area set apart for sacred purposes, including the temple and the priests, emphasizing the centrality of worship in Israel's life.

4. The City
Represents the communal and civic life of the Israelites, highlighting the importance of community alongside worship.

5. The Land Allocation
The specific measurement of land (5,000 by 25,000 cubits) signifies God's orderly provision and care for His people, ensuring both spiritual and communal needs are met.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
God is a God of order and provision, ensuring that both spiritual and physical needs are met for His people.

Community and Worship
The allocation of land for the city and the holy district underscores the balance between communal life and worship, reminding us of the importance of both in our lives.

Inheritance and Identity
The land given to the house of Israel serves as a reminder of their identity as God's chosen people and their inheritance in Him.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
As God provides for His people, they are called to be faithful stewards of what He has given, using it for His glory and the good of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific allocation of land in Ezekiel 45:6 reflect God's character and His relationship with Israel?

2. In what ways can we see the balance between worship and community life in our own lives, as illustrated by the holy district and the city?

3. How does the concept of land as an inheritance in Ezekiel 45:6 connect to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn about stewardship from the way land is allocated to the house of Israel?

5. How do the themes of provision and order in Ezekiel 45:6 encourage us in our current circumstances and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, which emphasizes the restoration of land and property, reflecting God's provision and justice.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of a holy city for His people.

Joshua 13-21
Details the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, illustrating God's faithfulness in providing for His people.