Ezekiel 48:31

the gates of the city will be named after the tribes of Israel. On the north side there will be three gates: the gate of Reuben, the gate of Judah, and the gate of Levi.

Study Bible

the gates of the city
The phrase "the gates of the city" refers to the entrances of the New Jerusalem, as envisioned by the prophet Ezekiel. In ancient times, city gates were not only physical entry points but also places of judgment, commerce, and social interaction. They symbolized access and authority. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, these gates represent the entry into the divine presence and the community of God's people. The Hebrew word for "gates" is "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar), which often signifies a place of decision and transition. Spiritually, this can be seen as an invitation to enter into a deeper relationship with God, where one moves from the outside world into a sacred space.

will be named
The act of naming in the Bible is significant, often denoting ownership, character, or destiny. In this context, the naming of the gates signifies a divine order and purpose. The Hebrew root "קָרָא" (qara) means to call or proclaim. This suggests that the names are not arbitrary but are divinely appointed, reflecting God's sovereign plan for His people. It is a reminder that God knows each tribe intimately and has a specific place and role for them in His eternal kingdom.

after the tribes of Israel
The twelve tribes of Israel, originating from the sons of Jacob, represent the fullness of God's covenant people. Each tribe had its unique identity and role within the nation of Israel. By naming the gates after the tribes, Ezekiel emphasizes the continuity of God's promises and the inclusion of all His people in the eschatological vision. Historically, the tribes were central to the identity and organization of Israel, and their mention here underscores the restoration and unity of God's people. This reflects the biblical theme of God gathering His scattered people and restoring them to their rightful place in His divine order. It is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant and His desire for all His people to dwell with Him eternally.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile who received visions from God, including the vision of the new temple and the division of the land among the tribes of Israel.

2. Tribes of Israel
The descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, each of whom became the ancestor of one of the tribes. In this verse, Reuben, Judah, and Levi are specifically mentioned.

3. The City
Refers to the future city described in Ezekiel's vision, symbolizing the restored and glorified Jerusalem.

4. Reuben
The firstborn son of Jacob, representing one of the tribes of Israel. His name means "behold, a son" in Hebrew.

5. Judah
The fourth son of Jacob and Leah, from whom the royal line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. His name means "praise."

6. Levi
The third son of Jacob and Leah, whose descendants became the priestly tribe. His name means "joined" or "attached."

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The naming of the gates after the tribes of Israel signifies God's enduring covenant with His people. Despite their past failures, God remains faithful to His promises.

Unity and Diversity in God's Kingdom
Each tribe, with its unique history and characteristics, is represented in the city, illustrating the unity and diversity within the body of Christ.

The Role of Worship and Praise
The inclusion of Judah, whose name means "praise," highlights the importance of worship in our relationship with God and in the life of the community.

Priestly Service and Holiness
Levi's presence among the gates reminds us of our calling to be a royal priesthood, living lives of holiness and service to God.

Anticipation of the New Jerusalem
This vision encourages believers to look forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the New Jerusalem, where all things will be made new.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the naming of the gates after the tribes of Israel reflect God's faithfulness to His covenant promises?

2. In what ways can the diversity of the tribes of Israel inspire unity within the modern church?

3. How does the role of Judah in this passage encourage us to prioritize worship and praise in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the tribe of Levi about living a life dedicated to service and holiness?

5. How does the vision of the future city in Ezekiel 48:31 inspire hope and anticipation for the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 21
The description of the New Jerusalem, which also has gates named after the twelve tribes of Israel, showing the continuity of God's plan from the Old to the New Testament.

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, which provide insight into the characteristics and destinies of the tribes, including Reuben, Judah, and Levi.

Numbers 2
The arrangement of the tribes around the tabernacle, which parallels the organization of the tribes in Ezekiel's vision.