◄ Ezekiel 47 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Waters from under the Temple 1Then the man brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the temple faced east). The water was coming down from under the south side of the temple, south of the altar. 2Next he brought me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the outer gate facing east, and there I saw the water trickling out from the south side. 3As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubitsa and led me through ankle-deep water. 4Then he measured off a thousand cubits and led me through knee-deep water. Again he measured a thousand cubits and led me through waist-deep water. 5Once again he measured off a thousand cubits, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough for swimming—a river that could not be crossed on foot. 6“Son of man, do you see this?” he asked. Then he led me back to the bank of the river. 7When I arrived, I saw a great number of trees along both banks of the river. 8And he said to me, “This water flows out to the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah. When it empties into the Dead Sea,b the water there becomes fresh.c 9Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures and a great number of fish, because it flows there and makes the waters fresh; so wherever the river flows, everything will flourish. 10Fishermen will stand by the shore; from En-gedi to En-eglaim they will spread their nets to catch fish of many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea.d 11But the swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they will be left for salt. 12Along both banks of the river, fruit trees of all kinds will grow. Their leaves will not wither, and their fruit will not fail. Each month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will be used for food and their leaves for healing.” The Borders of the Land 13This is what the Lord GOD says: “These are the boundaries by which you are to divide the land as an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel; Joseph shall receive two portions.e 14You are to divide it equally among them. Because I swore with an uplifted hand to give it to your forefathers, this land will fall to you as an inheritance. 15This shall be the boundary of the land: On the north side it will extend from the Great Sea by way of Hethlon through Lebo-hamath to Zedad, 16Berothah, and Sibraimf (which is on the border between Damascus and Hamath), as far as Hazer-hatticon, which is on the border of Hauran. 17So the border will run from the Sea to Hazar-enan, along the northern border of Damascus, with the territory of Hamath to the north. This will be the northern boundary. 18On the east side the border will run between Hauran and Damascus, along the Jordan between Gilead and the land of Israel, to the Eastern Sea and as far as Tamar.g This will be the eastern boundary. 19On the south side it will run from Tamar to the waters of Meribath-kadesh, and along the Brook of Egypth to the Great Sea. This will be the southern boundary. 20And on the west side, the Great Sea will be the boundary up to a point opposite Lebo-hamath. This will be the western boundary. 21You are to divide this land among yourselves according to the tribes of Israel. 22You shall allot it as an inheritance for yourselves and for the foreigners who dwell among you and who have children. You are to treat them as native-born Israelites; along with you, they shall be allotted an inheritance among the tribes of Israel. 23In whatever tribe a foreigner dwells, you are to assign his inheritance there,” declares the Lord GOD. Footnotes: 3 a 1,000 (long) cubits is approximately 1,750 feet or 533.4 meters. 8 b Literally the Sea 8 c Hebrew is healed; similarly in verses 9 and 11 10 d That is, the Mediterranean Sea; also in verses 15, 19, and 20 13 e Since Levi had no portion, Joseph’s sons Ephraim and Manasseh received land as two tribes. 16 f LXX; MT 15...through Lebo to Zedad, 16Hamath, Berothah, and Sibraim 18 g See Syriac; that is, of Israel, to the Dead Sea and as far as Tamar; Hebrew of Israel. And along the Eastern Sea you are to measure. 19 h Hebrew does not include of Egypt. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 47 Summary Waters from under the Temple Verses 1–2 – The Water Source from the Temple Threshold Ezekiel is led back to the temple entrance, where water trickles out from beneath the threshold, flowing eastward, moving south of the altar, and exiting on the east side of the outer gate. Verses 3–6 – Measuring the Deepening River An angelic guide measures successive 1,000–cubit segments. The water rises from ankle-deep, to knee-deep, to waist-deep, and finally becomes a river that cannot be crossed, compelling Ezekiel to observe its overwhelming depth and power. Verses 7–12 – Life Along the Banks On both sides grow abundant fruit trees whose leaves never wither. The river heals the Dead Sea’s salty waters so that “wherever the river flows, everything will live” (v. 9). Fishermen spread their nets from En-gedi to En-eglaim, and the trees yield fresh fruit monthly, “because their water flows from the sanctuary” (v. 12). Verses 13–14 – Boundaries Assigned to Tribes The land is divided into twelve equal allotments for Israel’s tribes, Joseph receiving two portions, Levi a priestly share elsewhere. God swears, “This land will be your inheritance” (v. 14). Verses 15–17 – Northern Border From the Mediterranean Sea eastward to the entrance of Zedad, the northern line runs through well-known sites—Lebo-hamath, Hazar-enon, Damascus’s border, and Hamath. Verses 18–19 – Eastern and Southern Borders The Jordan marks the east. The south stretches from Tamar to the waters of Meribath-kadesh, along the Brook of Egypt, then to the Great Sea (Mediterranean). Verses 20–23 – Western Border and Alien Inclusion The Mediterranean Sea itself forms the western edge. Resident foreigners who raise families in Israel receive tribal shares “just like native-born Israelites” (v. 22), highlighting God’s welcome to all who embrace His covenant. Ezekiel 47 presents a captivating prophetic vision wherein Ezekiel is led by a divine figure to a healing river flowing from the Temple. As the river's depth increases, it illustrates the spiritual transformation that God's people will experience. The chapter also reveals the boundaries of the Promised Land, depicting an image of hope, restoration, and abundance. Historical Setting Ezekiel, a priest turned exile-prophet, writes c. 571 BC. Chapter 47 belongs to his climactic temple vision (chs. 40–48), given during Babylonian captivity. God’s people, landless and temple-less, receive a vivid promise of restoration: worship will be re-centered on God’s presence, and the land will be theirs again. Vision in Ezekiel’s Prophetic Timeline • Chapters 1–24: judgment on Judah. • Chapters 25–32: judgment on surrounding nations. • Chapters 33–48: hope and restoration. The river scene follows the temple tour and precedes the land allotment—God’s presence first, life second, order third. Imagery of the Temple River 1. Source at the sanctuary affirms God alone as life-giver (cf. Psalm 36:9; Revelation 22:1). 2. Eastward flow matches Eden’s orientation (Genesis 2:8) and Israel’s return route from exile. 3. Deepening without tributaries underlines supernatural supply—like the widow’s oil (2 Kings 4:1-7). 4. Water heals the Dead Sea—one of earth’s saltiest bodies—illustrating total reversal of curse (Revelation 21:5). 5. Monthly fruit recalls manna’s daily provision and revelation’s “twelve crops of fruit” (Revelation 22:2). Physical Geography and Hydrology Ezekiel names En-gedi and En-eglaim—oases framing the Dead Sea’s western shore. Today, no freshwater river feeds that basin. The prophecy foresees either a miraculous spring under the temple mount or a tectonic change (cf. Zechariah 14:4-8). Tribal Allotments and Land Boundaries • Equal bands run east-to-west, north-to-south, reflecting fairness and unity. • Joseph’s double portion honors Jacob’s blessing (Genesis 48:5). • The boundaries largely mirror Numbers 34 but expand northward to Zedad and Hamath, hinting at fullness promised to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). Archaeological Insights Lebo-hamath corresponds to modern Hama in Syria; finds confirm its role as ancient trade gateway. Hazar-enon remains unidentified but likely near today’s Quneitra. Tamar may be Ein-Ha-Qore, an oasis on Israel’s southern frontier. Such sites locate the vision in real topography, grounding the future hope in concrete soil. Echoes in Other Scriptures • Psalm 46:4 — “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God.” • Joel 3:18 — “A fountain will flow out of the house of the LORD.” • Zechariah 14:8 — “Living waters will flow out of Jerusalem.” • John 7:38 — “Whoever believes in Me… streams of living water will flow from within him.” The river image becomes a thread running from Eden to Revelation, always sourced in God’s dwelling. Practical Lessons for Today • God begins renewal at His dwelling; spiritual life always flows outward, never merely inward. • Growth is progressive—ankle to knee to waist to swimming depth—inviting believers to step deeper in faith. • Divine abundance transforms barren places; no heart is too salty for God’s healing stream. • Boundaries and order stand alongside grace and inclusion; foreigners share inheritance when they align with God’s covenant. Future Fulfillment Many read this vision as a literal, future reality in a messianic kingdom—temple rebuilt, land redistributed, Dead Sea revived. Others see a foretaste realized through Jesus, the true temple, whose Spirit now refreshes. Both perspectives affirm that God keeps covenant promises and that the life of the age to come already pulses through His people. Key Takeaway From a single trickle at God’s throne bursts a river of unstoppable life. Ezekiel 47 paints a future where worship, land, and people flourish under God’s gracious reign—and invites every generation to step in and be carried by the current. Connections to Additional Scriptures John 7:38 Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him. Revelation 22:1-2 Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does. Teaching Points The Source of the River The river originates from the temple, emphasizing that true life and restoration come from God alone. Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east (Ezekiel 47:1). The Increasing Depth As the river flows, it deepens, symbolizing the increasing abundance and depth of God's blessings. As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and led me through water that was ankle-deep (Ezekiel 47:3). The Healing Waters The river brings life wherever it flows, turning saltwater fresh and supporting a multitude of living creatures. Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures, and there will be many fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh (Ezekiel 47:9). The Fruitful Trees Trees along the riverbank bear fruit every month, symbolizing continuous provision and healing. Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail (Ezekiel 47:12). Practical Applications Seek God's Presence Just as the river flows from the temple, seek to dwell in God's presence daily for spiritual nourishment and growth. Embrace Spiritual Growth Allow God's Spirit to deepen your faith, moving from ankle-deep to waters that are over your head, signifying complete trust and surrender. Be a Conduit of Life Like the river, let your life bring healing and refreshment to those around you through acts of kindness, love, and sharing the Gospel. Trust in God's Provision Rely on God's continuous provision and healing, trusting that He will meet your needs in every season of life. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The divine presence is implicit throughout the vision, as the source of the river flowing from the temple. The river symbolizes God's life-giving and restorative power. The Hebrew name for the LORD, YHWH, is often used to denote God's covenantal relationship with His people. 2. The Man (Angel/Guide) In Ezekiel 47:3, a man is described as measuring the water. This figure is often interpreted as an angelic guide or messenger who leads Ezekiel through the vision. The Hebrew term used here is "אִישׁ" (ish), meaning "man," but in the context of prophetic visions, it often refers to a heavenly being. 3. Ezekiel The prophet himself, who receives and records the vision. Ezekiel is the recipient of the revelation and is guided by the man through the various stages of the vision. His role is to convey God's message to the people of Israel. Places 1. The Temple The vision begins at the temple, where water is seen flowing from under the threshold. This symbolizes the source of divine blessing and life. The Hebrew word for temple, "הֵיכָל" (heikal), refers to a large building or palace, emphasizing the grandeur and holiness of the place. 2. The Eastern Gate The water flows out from the temple toward the east, passing through the eastern gate. This gate is significant as it faces the direction of the sunrise, symbolizing new beginnings and hope. 3. The Arabah The river flows down into the Arabah, a desert region. The Hebrew word "עֲרָבָה" (arabah) refers to a dry, barren area, highlighting the transformative power of the river as it brings life to desolate places. 4. The Sea The river ultimately flows into the sea, which is often understood to be the Dead Sea. The transformation of the sea's waters from salty to fresh signifies the healing and restorative power of God's presence. Events 1. The Vision of the Temple Waters Ezekiel is brought back to the entrance of the temple, where he sees water flowing from under the threshold toward the east. This water symbolizes life and purification, originating from the temple, which is the dwelling place of God. The Hebrew word for "water" (מַיִם, mayim) often signifies life and blessing in the Old Testament. 2. The Measurement of the Waters A man with a measuring line measures the water in increments of a thousand cubits. At each stage, the water becomes deeper: ankle-deep, knee-deep, waist-deep, and then a river that cannot be crossed. This progression illustrates the increasing abundance and depth of God's blessings and presence. 3. The River of Life The river flows eastward into the Arabah and enters the Dead Sea, where the salty waters become fresh. This transformation signifies the life-giving power of God's presence, turning death into life. The Hebrew root for "fresh" (חָיָה, chayah) means to live or revive. 4. The Abundance of Life Along the banks of the river, many trees grow, providing fruit and healing leaves. This imagery reflects the restoration and sustenance that come from God's provision. The trees' perpetual fruitfulness and healing properties underscore the eternal and holistic nature of God's blessings. 5. The Division of the Land The chapter concludes with instructions for dividing the land among the tribes of Israel. This allocation represents the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His kingdom. The Hebrew term for "divide" (חָלַק, chalaq) implies an inheritance or portion, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and His people. Lessons from Ezekiel 47 1. The Source of Life Flows from God Ezekiel 47 begins with a vision of water flowing from the temple, symbolizing the life-giving presence of God. This water represents the spiritual nourishment that comes from a relationship with Him. As it is written, "Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east" (Ezekiel 47:1). Just as this water brings life to the land, God's Word and Spirit bring life to our souls. 2. Growth Happens in Stages As Ezekiel wades into the water, it gradually deepens—from ankle-deep to a river that cannot be crossed. This progression illustrates how spiritual growth occurs in stages. "He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep" (Ezekiel 47:4). Embrace each stage of your spiritual journey, trusting that God is leading you deeper into His truth. 3. God's Abundance Transforms Desolation The river in Ezekiel's vision transforms the barren desert into a fertile land. "Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures and a great number of fish" (Ezekiel 47:9). This is a powerful reminder that God can bring life and abundance to the most desolate areas of our lives. Trust in His power to renew and restore. 4. Healing and Restoration are Found in God The waters of the river bring healing wherever they flow. "The water of the sea will be healed" (Ezekiel 47:8). This symbolizes the healing power of God’s presence in our lives. Whether it's physical, emotional, or spiritual healing you seek, turn to God, who is the ultimate healer. 5. Fruitfulness Comes from Being Planted by the River Trees along the riverbank bear fruit every month, symbolizing continual fruitfulness. "Their leaves will not wither, and their fruit will not fail" (Ezekiel 47:12). When we root ourselves in God’s Word and Spirit, we too can bear fruit in every season of life. Stay connected to the source of life for ongoing growth and productivity. 6. God's Provision is Sufficient The river provides everything needed for life and sustenance. "Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing" (Ezekiel 47:12). This reminds us that God’s provision is always sufficient. Trust in His ability to meet your needs, both great and small. 7. The Power of God's Presence The vision of the river flowing from the temple underscores the power of God’s presence. "The water was rising, and it was deep enough to swim in—a river that could not be crossed on foot" (Ezekiel 47:5). When we invite God’s presence into our lives, we experience His overwhelming power and grace. 8. God's Kingdom is Expansive The river flows outward, symbolizing the expansive nature of God’s kingdom. "It will become fresh; so wherever the river flows, everything will live" (Ezekiel 47:9). God’s love and grace are not limited; they are meant to reach every corner of the earth. Be a vessel through which His love flows to others. 9. The Importance of Vision Ezekiel’s vision teaches us the importance of having a God-given vision for our lives. "Son of man, do you see this?" (Ezekiel 47:6). Seek God’s guidance to understand His plans and purposes for you. A clear vision helps you stay focused and aligned with His will. 10. Hope for the Future Finally, Ezekiel 47 offers a message of hope. The transformation of the land is a foretaste of the ultimate renewal that God promises. "The river will flow into the sea, and the water there will become fresh" (Ezekiel 47:8). Hold onto the hope of God’s promises, knowing that He is working all things for good. May these lessons from Ezekiel 47 inspire you to dive deeper into your faith and experience the abundant life that God offers. Topics 1. The River from the Temple Ezekiel 47 begins with a vision of a river flowing from the threshold of the temple. This river symbolizes the life-giving presence of God. The Hebrew word for "river" (נָהָר, nahar) emphasizes a continuous flow, indicating the perpetual blessings that come from God’s presence. ^"Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east..."^ (Ezekiel 47:1). 2. Increasing Depth of the River As the river flows, it becomes progressively deeper, illustrating the increasing abundance of God’s blessings. The measurements taken by the man with the measuring line show a progression from ankle-deep to a river that cannot be crossed. ^"He measured off a thousand cubits and led me through water that was ankle-deep..."^ (Ezekiel 47:3). 3. Healing Waters and Trees The river brings life and healing wherever it flows, transforming the surrounding environment. The Hebrew root for "heal" (רָפָא, rapha) signifies restoration and wholeness. The trees along the riverbank bear fruit every month, symbolizing continual provision and healing. ^"And wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures, and there will be many fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh..."^ (Ezekiel 47:9). 4. Boundaries of the Land The chapter also outlines the boundaries of the land that will be allotted to the twelve tribes of Israel. This allocation signifies the restoration and fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. ^"This is what the Lord GOD says: 'These are the boundaries by which you are to divide the land as an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel...'"^ (Ezekiel 47:13). 5. Inheritance for Foreigners In a surprising inclusion, the chapter provides for the inheritance of foreigners residing among the Israelites, reflecting God’s inclusive plan for all nations. The Hebrew term for "foreigner" (גֵּר, ger) indicates a resident alien who is integrated into the community. ^"You are to allot it as an inheritance for yourselves and for the foreigners who have joined you and have children among you..."^ (Ezekiel 47:22). Themes 1. The River of Life Ezekiel 47 begins with a vision of a river flowing from the temple. This river symbolizes the life-giving presence of God. The Hebrew word for river, "נָהָר" (nahar), emphasizes a continuous flow, representing the unending grace and sustenance provided by God. The passage states, "Then he brought me back to the entrance of the temple, and I saw water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east" (Ezekiel 47:1). 2. Healing and Restoration The river's waters bring healing and restoration wherever they flow. This theme highlights God's power to renew and restore creation. The text says, "Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures, and there will be many fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh" (Ezekiel 47:9). The Hebrew root "רָפָא" (rapha) for healing underscores God's restorative work. 3. Abundance and Provision The river supports an abundance of life, symbolizing God's provision. Trees along the river bear fruit every month, indicating continual sustenance. The passage notes, "Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing" (Ezekiel 47:12). The Hebrew word "שָׁפַע" (shapha) for abundance reflects God's generous provision. 4. Divine Order and Boundaries The vision includes the delineation of land boundaries, signifying divine order and the establishment of God's kingdom. The text describes the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, emphasizing God's sovereignty in establishing order. "This is the boundary by which you shall divide the land as an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel" (Ezekiel 47:13). 5. Inclusivity and Inheritance The passage extends the promise of inheritance to foreigners residing among the Israelites, highlighting inclusivity in God's kingdom. This theme reflects the Hebrew concept of "גֵּר" (ger), meaning sojourner or foreigner, and underscores the openness of God's covenant. "You are to allot it as an inheritance for yourselves and for the foreigners who have joined you and have children among you" (Ezekiel 47:22). Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Life-Giving Presence Thank God for His presence that brings life and renewal to our hearts and communities. Prayer for Spiritual Growth Ask God to deepen your faith and understanding, leading you into deeper waters of trust and obedience. Intercession for Healing and Restoration Pray for areas in your life and the lives of others that need God's healing touch and restoration. Commitment to Be a Blessing Commit to being a source of life and blessing to others, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all you do. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ezekiel 47:1: How can a small trickle of water transform so rapidly into a deep river, seemingly defying known geological and hydrological laws? 2. Ezekiel 47:8–9: Can the Dead Sea really be made fresh by this river, considering its high salinity and the lack of any historical or scientific precedent? 3. Ezekiel 47:10: How could there be an abundance of fish and thriving fishing activity in the Dead Sea if its environment is inhospitable for most marine life? 4. Ezekiel 47:12: Is there any archeological or historical evidence of fruit-bearing trees with leaves that provide healing, as described along the riverbanks? 5. Ezekiel 47:1–12: Why do no external historical records mention these miraculous changes to the land, casting doubt on a literal fulfillment of this prophecy? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the image of the river flowing from the Temple symbolize spiritual transformation? 2. What does the healing power of the river indicate about God's nature? 3. How do the trees alongside the river embody the theme of divine provision and renewal? 4. Why might the gradual increase in the river's depth, as measured by the man, be significant in understanding spiritual growth? 5. How does the transformation of the Dead Sea into fresh water relate to personal life changes? 6. What can we learn about God's promises from the detailed boundaries of the Promised Land? 7. What does the inclusion of foreigners within the inheritance suggest about God's view of His people? 8. How can the vision of the healing river influence your personal spiritual journey? 9. How can Ezekiel's vision encourage us to seek and share spiritual healing in our communities today? 10. In today's world, how can we practically experience the 'healing leaves' and 'year-round fruit' that the trees by the river provide? 11. How can the principles of restoration and abundance seen in this chapter be applied to your current life circumstances? 12. How might this chapter reshape your understanding of God's Kingdom? 13. What are the implications of the river's transformation effect on the Dead Sea for the idea of change and growth in our lives? 14. How can the prophetic vision of the Promised Land boundaries influence our view of fairness and justice? 15. How can we embody the inclusivity demonstrated in the allocation of the land to foreigners in our society? 16. How does the chapter's theme of restoration resonate with your personal experiences? 17. How can the vision in Ezekiel 47 inspire us to actively participate in God's mission of spiritual restoration? 18. How does the increasing depth of the river reflect our spiritual journey and growth? 19. What steps can we take to ensure that we are channels of God's healing and abundance in our respective environments? 20. What does this chapter teach about God's promises, and how can these lessons be applied in dealing with life's uncertainties? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions