Ezekiel 48:2

Asher will have one portion bordering the territory of Dan from east to west.

Study Bible

Asher
The name "Asher" in Hebrew means "happy" or "blessed." Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's eighth son by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Historically, the tribe of Asher was known for its rich land, abundant in olive oil, which was a significant resource in ancient Israel. The blessing of Moses in Deuteronomy 33:24 highlights Asher's prosperity: "Most blessed of sons is Asher; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil." This portioning of land to Asher in Ezekiel's vision signifies a restoration of the tribe's inheritance, reflecting God's faithfulness to His promises.

will have one portion
The phrase "will have one portion" indicates a specific allotment of land. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, this allocation is part of the prophetic restoration of Israel. The division of land among the tribes symbolizes God's order and justice, ensuring each tribe receives its rightful inheritance. This reflects the biblical principle of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's covenant with the patriarchs, where each tribe is assured a place in the Promised Land.

bordering the territory of Dan
"Bordering the territory of Dan" situates Asher's portion geographically next to Dan. The tribe of Dan, named after Jacob's fifth son, was known for its struggles with idolatry, as seen in Judges 18. However, in Ezekiel's vision, Dan is restored alongside the other tribes, signifying redemption and unity among God's people. The proximity of Asher to Dan in this allocation underscores the theme of reconciliation and the harmonious coexistence of the tribes in the renewed land.

from east to west
The phrase "from east to west" describes the orientation of Asher's territory. This east-to-west alignment is consistent with the layout of the tribal lands in Ezekiel's vision, emphasizing order and symmetry. In biblical symbolism, the east often represents the direction of God's presence, as seen in the Garden of Eden and the entrance to the Tabernacle. The west, conversely, can symbolize the end of a journey or the setting of the sun. Together, this orientation from east to west may symbolize the completeness and inclusivity of God's plan for His people, encompassing all directions and aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asher
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Asher, the eighth son of Jacob and Zilpah. Known for its rich land and abundance of olive oil.

2. Dan
Another tribe of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and Bilhah. Historically, the tribe of Dan struggled with idolatry and was one of the northernmost tribes.

3. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile who received visions from God, including the division of the land among the tribes of Israel.

4. The Land of Israel
The promised land given to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In Ezekiel's vision, it is divided among the tribes in a future restoration.

5. The Vision of Restoration
Ezekiel 48 is part of a larger vision of the restoration of Israel, including the rebuilding of the temple and the reallocation of the land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His covenant promises, as seen in the future restoration of the land.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the tribes received a physical inheritance, believers today have a spiritual inheritance in Christ that should be valued and pursued.

Unity and Diversity in God's Plan
The division of the land among the tribes highlights the diversity within the unity of God's people, reminding us of the importance of each member in the body of Christ.

The Consequences of Idolatry
The history of the tribe of Dan serves as a warning against idolatry and the need for faithfulness to God.

Hope in Restoration
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration and renewal, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to Asher and Dan in Ezekiel 48:2 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to the patriarchs?

2. In what ways can the spiritual inheritance of believers today be compared to the physical inheritance of the tribes of Israel?

3. Considering the history of the tribe of Dan, what lessons can we learn about the dangers of idolatry and the importance of remaining faithful to God?

4. How does the division of land among the tribes in Ezekiel's vision illustrate the concept of unity and diversity within the body of Christ?

5. What aspects of Ezekiel's vision of restoration can provide hope and encouragement for believers facing challenges today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, including Asher and Dan, provide insight into the characteristics and future of these tribes.

Joshua 19
The original allotment of land to the tribes of Israel, offering a historical context for Ezekiel's vision of the future division.

Revelation 7
The listing of the tribes of Israel in the sealing of the 144,000, which includes Asher but notably omits Dan, reflecting on the spiritual significance of these tribes.