Ezekiel 48:20

The entire portion will be a square, 25,000 cubits by 25,000 cubits. You are to set apart the holy portion, along with the city property.

Study Bible

The entire portion
This phrase refers to the designated area set aside for sacred purposes. In the Hebrew context, the word for "portion" (חֵלֶק, cheleq) often implies a division or allotment, suggesting a deliberate and divine allocation of land. This reflects God's sovereignty in distributing the land among the tribes of Israel, emphasizing His authority and the sacredness of His plans.

will be a square
The shape of a square symbolizes perfection, balance, and completeness in biblical literature. The Hebrew word for "square" (רָבוּעַ, rabu'a) indicates a geometric precision that reflects God's order and harmony. This design underscores the divine nature of the holy portion, as it mirrors the perfection of God's creation and His desire for order in worship and community life.

25,000 cubits by 25,000 cubits
The measurement of 25,000 cubits (approximately 7.5 miles or 12 kilometers) on each side signifies a substantial area dedicated to holiness. The use of the cubit, an ancient unit of length based on the forearm's length, connects this measurement to the human body, symbolizing the relationship between God and humanity. The repetition of the number 25,000 emphasizes the magnitude and importance of this holy space, reflecting God's abundant provision and the vastness of His kingdom.

you are to set apart
The act of setting apart (קָדַשׁ, qadash) is a recurring biblical theme, denoting sanctification and consecration. This command highlights the necessity of distinguishing the sacred from the profane, a principle central to Israel's identity as a holy nation. It calls believers to recognize and respect the boundaries God establishes for worship and community, reminding them of their calling to be set apart for His purposes.

the holy portion
The "holy portion" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) refers to the land designated for the temple and the priests. This term underscores the sanctity and divine purpose of the area, reserved for worship and service to God. It serves as a physical representation of God's presence among His people, a place where heaven and earth meet, and where the community can encounter the divine.

along with the city property
The inclusion of "city property" (עִיר, 'ir) alongside the holy portion indicates the integration of sacred and communal life. This phrase suggests that the city, representing the people and their daily lives, is to be closely connected to the holy space. It reflects the biblical vision of a society where worship and community are intertwined, and where God's presence permeates every aspect of life. This integration serves as a reminder that holiness is not confined to the temple but extends into the broader community, calling believers to live out their faith in every sphere of life.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Holy Portion
A designated area set apart for the Lord, including the sanctuary and the property of the city, symbolizing God's presence and holiness among His people.

3. The City
Refers to the city of Jerusalem, which is central to the vision of restoration and the future hope for Israel.

4. The Land of Israel
The promised land, which is being divided among the tribes of Israel in this vision, representing God's faithfulness to His covenant.

5. The Temple
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the temple is a significant part of the holy portion, representing worship and the dwelling place of God.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The setting apart of a holy portion emphasizes the importance of holiness and separation for God’s purposes. Believers are called to live lives that are distinct and dedicated to God.

God’s Faithfulness
The detailed division of the land among the tribes of Israel is a testament to God’s faithfulness to His promises. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises to us.

The Centrality of Worship
The inclusion of the temple within the holy portion highlights the centrality of worship in the life of God’s people. Worship should be at the heart of our daily lives.

Community and Order
The organized division of land reflects God’s desire for order and community among His people. We are called to live in harmony and unity within the body of Christ.

Future Hope
This vision points to a future hope and restoration for God’s people. As Christians, we look forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises in the new heaven and new earth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "holy portion" in Ezekiel 48:20 challenge us to consider areas of our lives that need to be set apart for God?

2. In what ways does the division of land among the tribes of Israel demonstrate God’s faithfulness, and how can this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

3. How can the centrality of the temple in the holy portion inspire us to prioritize worship in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the orderly division of land about living in community and harmony with others?

5. How does the vision of restoration in Ezekiel 48:20 give us hope for the future, and how can this hope impact our present circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee and the concept of land being holy and belonging to God, which parallels the idea of setting apart a holy portion in Ezekiel.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, drawing a connection to the vision of a restored and holy city in Ezekiel.

Numbers 34
Details the boundaries of the land of Canaan, which relates to the division of land in Ezekiel's vision.