Ezekiel 48:34

And on the west side, which will be 4,500 cubits long, there will be three gates: the gate of Gad, the gate of Asher, and the gate of Naphtali.

Study Bible

On the west side
The west side of the city is significant in biblical symbolism, often representing the direction of the setting sun and the end of a day. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, the west side of the city is part of the new, restored Jerusalem, symbolizing completion and fulfillment of God's promises. The west side's inclusion in the city's design reflects the comprehensive nature of God's plan, encompassing all directions and aspects of life.

which is 4,500 cubits long
The measurement of 4,500 cubits indicates precision and order in God's design. A cubit, an ancient unit of length, is approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The specific measurement underscores the meticulous nature of God's plans for His people. It reflects the divine order and the perfect symmetry of the New Jerusalem, as described in Ezekiel's vision, symbolizing God's perfect and unchanging nature.

there will be three gates
The presence of three gates on each side of the city is symbolic of access and inclusion. In biblical numerology, the number three often represents completeness and divine perfection. The three gates on the west side signify the openness of God's kingdom to all tribes of Israel, and by extension, to all nations. It is a reminder of the Trinity and the completeness found in God's presence.

the gate of Gad
Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, was known for its warriors and strength. The inclusion of the gate of Gad signifies the strength and protection that God provides to His people. It is a reminder of the spiritual warfare that believers face and the assurance of victory through God's power. Historically, Gad settled east of the Jordan River, and their inclusion in the gates of the New Jerusalem signifies unity and restoration.

the gate of Asher
Asher, another tribe of Israel, was blessed with prosperity and abundance. The gate of Asher symbolizes the blessings and provision that come from God. It reflects the promise of spiritual abundance and the richness of life in God's presence. Asher's territory was fertile and productive, and this gate serves as a reminder of the spiritual fruitfulness that believers are called to exhibit.

and the gate of Naphtali
Naphtali, known for its swiftness and agility, represents freedom and deliverance. The gate of Naphtali signifies the liberation and joy found in God's kingdom. It is a reminder of the freedom from sin and the joy of salvation. Naphtali's land was in the northern part of Israel, and its inclusion in the gates of the New Jerusalem highlights the gathering of all God's people from every corner of the earth.

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. Gad
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after one of Jacob's sons. The tribe of Gad was known for its warriors and settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

3. Asher
Another tribe of Israel, named after Jacob's son Asher. This tribe was known for its abundance and prosperity, often associated with olive oil production.

4. Naphtali
A tribe of Israel named after Jacob's son Naphtali. This tribe settled in the northern part of the Promised Land and was known for its swiftness and agility.

5. The New Jerusalem
The vision of the city described in Ezekiel 48 represents the restored and idealized Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The inclusion of all twelve tribes in the vision of the New Jerusalem signifies God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel. This reminds us that God is faithful to His promises, and we can trust Him to fulfill His word in our lives.

Unity and Diversity in God's Kingdom
The presence of gates named after different tribes highlights the unity and diversity within God's people. Each tribe had unique characteristics and roles, yet all were part of God's plan. In the body of Christ, we are called to celebrate our diversity while maintaining unity in purpose and mission.

The Hope of Restoration
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration and renewal. In times of personal or communal exile, we can hold onto the hope that God will restore and renew us, just as He promised to restore Israel.

The Importance of God's Presence
The New Jerusalem symbolizes God's eternal presence with His people. As believers, we are called to seek and prioritize God's presence in our lives, knowing that it is the source of true peace and fulfillment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the New Jerusalem in Ezekiel 48:34 encourage you to trust in God's promises today?

2. In what ways can the diversity of the tribes of Israel inspire us to embrace diversity within the church?

3. How does the hope of restoration in Ezekiel's vision apply to areas of your life where you are seeking renewal?

4. What steps can you take to prioritize God's presence in your daily life, drawing from the symbolism of the New Jerusalem?

5. How do the characteristics of the tribes of Gad, Asher, and Naphtali, as described in Genesis 49, relate to your personal strengths and how you serve in your community or church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 21
The description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation parallels Ezekiel's vision, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises and the eternal dwelling place of God with His people.

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, which include prophecies about the tribes of Gad, Asher, and Naphtali, provide background on the characteristics and destinies of these tribes.

Numbers 2
The arrangement of the tribes around the tabernacle in the wilderness reflects the order and organization of God's people, similar to the arrangement of the gates in Ezekiel's vision.