Ezekiel 46:17

But if he gives a gift from his inheritance to one of his servants, it will belong to that servant until the year of freedom; then it will revert to the prince. His inheritance belongs only to his sons; it shall be theirs.

Study Bible

But if he gives a gift from his inheritance
This phrase introduces a conditional scenario where the prince, a leader or ruler, decides to give a portion of his inheritance to a servant. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which signifies a possession or property passed down through generations. In the context of ancient Israel, inheritance was a sacred trust, often tied to the land and the covenant promises of God. The act of giving from one's inheritance reflects generosity but also a temporary transfer of stewardship.

to one of his servants
The term "servants" here is derived from the Hebrew "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can mean a servant, slave, or worker. In the ancient Near Eastern context, servants were often part of the household and could hold significant responsibilities. This phrase highlights the social structure and the relationship between the prince and his servants, indicating a hierarchy but also a level of trust and responsibility bestowed upon the servant.

it will belong to the servant until the Year of Jubilee
The "Year of Jubilee" is a profound concept found in Leviticus 25, where every fiftieth year, liberty was proclaimed throughout the land. The Hebrew word "יֹבֵל" (yovel) signifies a time of restoration and freedom, where debts were forgiven, and land was returned to its original owners. This phrase underscores the temporary nature of the gift, aligning with God's design for economic and social reset, ensuring that no permanent loss of family inheritance occurs.

when it will revert to the prince
The word "revert" indicates a return to the original state or owner. In Hebrew, this concept is captured by "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or restore. This reflects the divine principle of restoration and the cyclical nature of God's provision, ensuring that the prince's inheritance remains intact for his lineage, as ordained by God.

His inheritance belongs only to his sons
This phrase emphasizes the exclusivity of the inheritance to the prince's direct descendants. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which not only refers to male offspring but also signifies continuity and legacy. In the biblical context, inheritance was crucial for maintaining family lineage and fulfilling God's promises to His people.

it is theirs
The final phrase affirms the rightful ownership of the inheritance by the prince's sons. This declaration is a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people, where inheritance is not just a matter of property but a symbol of divine blessing and faithfulness. The assurance that "it is theirs" reflects God's sovereign plan for His chosen people, ensuring that His promises are fulfilled through generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Prince
A leader or ruler in Israel, possibly representing the Davidic line or a future messianic figure. The prince is responsible for distributing his inheritance.

2. Servants
Individuals who serve the prince. They may receive temporary gifts from the prince's inheritance but do not have permanent ownership.

3. Sons of the Prince
The rightful heirs to the prince's inheritance. They represent the continuity of the prince's lineage and authority.

4. Year of Jubilee
A significant event in Israel's calendar occurring every 50 years, where land and property are returned to their original owners, symbolizing restoration and freedom.

5. Inheritance
The property or possessions passed down from the prince to his sons, signifying the enduring legacy and blessings intended for the rightful heirs.

Teaching Points

Understanding Inheritance in God's Kingdom
The passage highlights the importance of rightful inheritance, symbolizing the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ. Just as the prince's sons are the rightful heirs, believers are heirs of God's promises.

Temporary vs. Permanent Possessions
The gift to the servant is temporary, reminding us that earthly possessions are fleeting. Our focus should be on eternal treasures and our permanent inheritance in heaven.

The Year of Jubilee: A Time of Restoration
The Year of Jubilee represents God's desire for restoration and freedom. It encourages us to seek spiritual renewal and to extend grace and forgiveness to others.

The Role of Authority and Stewardship
The prince's role in managing his inheritance teaches us about responsible stewardship. We are called to wisely manage the resources and gifts God has entrusted to us.

The Significance of Sonship
The emphasis on the sons as heirs underscores the importance of our identity as children of God. It challenges us to live in a way that reflects our status as heirs of God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of inheritance in Ezekiel 46:17 relate to our spiritual inheritance as believers in Christ?

2. In what ways can the temporary nature of the servant's gift remind us of the transient nature of earthly possessions?

3. How can the principles of the Year of Jubilee inspire us to seek restoration and freedom in our personal lives and communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the prince's role in managing his inheritance about stewardship and responsibility in our own lives?

5. How does understanding our identity as heirs of God's kingdom influence the way we live and interact with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
The Year of Jubilee is detailed here, emphasizing the themes of restoration and freedom. It provides the legal and spiritual context for the temporary nature of the servant's gift.

Numbers 36
Discusses inheritance laws in Israel, highlighting the importance of keeping inheritance within the family to preserve tribal boundaries and heritage.

Galatians 4
Paul speaks about believers as heirs through Christ, drawing a parallel to the concept of inheritance and sonship in God's kingdom.