Ezekiel 46:16

This is what the Lord GOD says: 'If the prince gives a gift to any of his sons as an inheritance, it will belong to his descendants. It will become their property by inheritance.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says
The phrase underscores the divine authority behind the message. In Hebrew, "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing both the sovereignty and the covenantal relationship God has with His people. This introduction is a common prophetic formula, affirming that the message is not of human origin but divinely inspired, demanding attention and obedience.

If the prince gives a gift
The "prince" here refers to a leader or ruler, possibly a messianic figure or a Davidic prince in the restored Israel. The Hebrew word for "gift" is "mattanah," which implies a voluntary offering or present. This reflects the generosity expected of leaders, who are to act as stewards of God's blessings, distributing them according to divine principles.

to one of his sons as an inheritance
Inheritance in ancient Israel was a significant concept, rooted in the Hebrew word "nachalah," meaning a possession or heritage. It was not merely a transfer of property but a continuation of familial and tribal identity. The inheritance laws ensured the stability and continuity of the family line, reflecting God's promise to Abraham regarding the land and descendants.

it will belong to his descendants
This phrase emphasizes the permanence and continuity of the inheritance. The Hebrew term for "descendants" is "ben," which can mean sons or children, indicating that the inheritance is meant to be perpetuated through the family line. This reflects the biblical principle of legacy and the importance of maintaining the family’s heritage and responsibilities.

It is their property by inheritance
The word "property" in Hebrew is "achuzzah," signifying a possession or holding. This term underscores the legal and covenantal right to the land or gift, reinforcing the idea that what is given by the prince is not to be taken lightly or revoked. The concept of inheritance is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, symbolizing God's faithfulness to His promises and the enduring nature of His covenant with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign ruler and ultimate authority, speaking through the prophet Ezekiel.

2. The Prince
A leader or ruler in Israel, possibly representing the Davidic line or a future messianic figure.

3. Sons
The descendants of the prince, who are the recipients of the inheritance.

4. Inheritance
The property or gift given by the prince to his sons, signifying a transfer of ownership and blessing.

5. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God communicates His laws and visions to the people of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Inheritance
Inheritance is not just a transfer of property but a continuation of legacy and blessing. It reflects God's promises and faithfulness to His people.

Role of Leadership
The prince's responsibility to provide for his descendants mirrors the responsibility of leaders to care for and ensure the well-being of those they lead.

Spiritual Inheritance
As believers, we are heirs of God's promises through Christ. This spiritual inheritance is eternal and surpasses any earthly possession.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
Just as the prince is to be faithful in distributing his inheritance, we are called to be faithful stewards of the resources and gifts God has entrusted to us.

Generational Impact
Our actions and decisions have lasting effects on future generations. We are encouraged to live in a way that honors God and blesses those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of inheritance in Ezekiel 46:16 reflect God's promises to His people throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are leaving a godly legacy for future generations?

3. How does the role of the prince in this passage inform our understanding of leadership and responsibility?

4. What are some practical ways we can be faithful stewards of the spiritual and material blessings God has given us?

5. How does the idea of being heirs through Christ, as mentioned in Galatians 4, influence our daily lives and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the laws of inheritance and property, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family land within the tribe.

Numbers 27
Details the laws of inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the importance of preserving family inheritance.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising a lasting dynasty, which ties into the concept of inheritance and the role of the prince.

Galatians 4
Paul speaks of believers as heirs through Christ, connecting the idea of inheritance to spiritual blessings.