Ezekiel 48:18

The remainder of the length bordering the holy portion and running adjacent to it will be 10,000 cubits on the east side and 10,000 cubits on the west side. Its produce will supply food for the workers of the city.

Study Bible

The remainder of the length
This phrase refers to the portion of land that is left after the initial allotments have been made. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, this is part of the detailed description of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. The Hebrew word for "remainder" (יֶתֶר, yether) often implies something left over or surplus, indicating God's provision is abundant and sufficient for all needs. Historically, this reflects the meticulous care in ensuring that every tribe receives its due inheritance, symbolizing God's fairness and order.

alongside the holy portion
The "holy portion" refers to the sacred land set apart for the priests and the temple, emphasizing the centrality of worship and God's presence among His people. The Hebrew term for "holy" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) signifies something consecrated or set apart for divine purposes. This highlights the importance of holiness and the need for the community to live in proximity to God's sanctified space, reminding believers of the call to live lives set apart for God.

shall be 10,000 cubits
The measurement of "10,000 cubits" underscores the precision and intentionality in God's plans. A cubit, an ancient unit of length, is approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters. This specific measurement indicates a substantial area, reflecting God's generous provision. It also serves as a reminder of the order and structure inherent in God's creation and His plans for His people.

eastward
The direction "eastward" is significant in biblical symbolism. The east often represents beginnings, as the sun rises in the east, symbolizing new opportunities and hope. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, it may also point to the direction from which God's glory returns to the temple (Ezekiel 43:2), suggesting a restoration and renewal for the people of Israel.

and 10,000 westward
Similarly, the "10,000 westward" balances the allocation of land, ensuring equity and fairness. The west, where the sun sets, can symbolize completion and fulfillment. This directional balance in the land's division reflects God's comprehensive plan for His people, ensuring that all aspects of life are covered under His sovereign care.

it shall be like the portions
This phrase indicates that the remainder of the land is to be treated with the same care and consideration as the other portions. The Hebrew word for "like" (כְּ, ke) suggests similarity or equivalence, emphasizing that every part of God's provision is valuable and significant. This equality in distribution underscores the biblical principle of justice and fairness, reminding believers of God's impartiality and righteousness.

for the city
The mention of "the city" refers to the urban center that will be established, likely Jerusalem, which holds a central place in Israel's identity and worship. The city is not just a physical location but a symbol of community, governance, and the presence of God among His people. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate city of God, the New Jerusalem, where believers will dwell eternally with the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile who received visions and messages from God concerning the restoration of Israel.

2. Holy Portion
A designated area set apart for the priests and the temple, symbolizing God's presence and holiness.

3. Workers of the City
Individuals responsible for maintaining the city, who benefit from the produce of the land.

4. East and West
Directions indicating the extent of the land's allocation, emphasizing the comprehensive provision for the city.

5. Produce
The agricultural yield from the land, intended to sustain those serving the city.

Teaching Points

God's Provision
God ensures that those who serve Him and His people are provided for, as seen in the allocation of land for the workers.

Holiness and Service
The proximity of the land to the holy portion signifies the importance of holiness in service. Our work should be an extension of our worship.

Community and Cooperation
The produce supports the workers, highlighting the need for cooperation and mutual support within the community of believers.

Stewardship
The land's produce is a reminder of our responsibility to steward God's resources wisely for the benefit of others.

Vision of Restoration
Ezekiel's vision points to a future restoration where God's order and provision are fully realized, encouraging us to hope and work towards God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land in Ezekiel 48:18 reflect God's care for those who serve Him? Consider how this principle applies to modern-day ministry.

2. In what ways can we ensure that our work and service are extensions of our worship, as symbolized by the land's proximity to the holy portion?

3. How can the concept of community and cooperation in Ezekiel 48:18 be applied to strengthen relationships within your church or community?

4. What are some practical ways you can practice stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to you, in light of the produce supplying the workers?

5. How does Ezekiel's vision of restoration inspire you to participate in God's kingdom work today, and what steps can you take to align with this vision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee and the concept of land being used to support the community, reflecting God's provision and care.

Nehemiah 11
Describes the repopulation of Jerusalem and the allocation of land for those serving in the city, similar to the distribution in Ezekiel.

Acts 6
The appointment of deacons to serve the community, paralleling the provision for workers in Ezekiel's vision.

1 Corinthians 12
The body of Christ and the distribution of gifts, akin to the allocation of land for different purposes in Ezekiel.