The Holy District, as described in the book of Ezekiel, is a significant portion of land set apart for sacred purposes in the prophetic vision of the restored land of Israel. This district is detailed in Ezekiel 45 and 48, where the prophet outlines the division of the land among the tribes of Israel and the specific allotment for the sanctuary, the priests, and the Levites.

Biblical Description

In Ezekiel 45:1-6, the Holy District is introduced as a "sacred portion of the land" to be set apart for the Lord. The passage states: "When you divide the land by lot as an inheritance, you are to present a portion to the LORD, a consecrated portion of the land 25,000 cubits long and 20,000 cubits wide. The entire area will be holy." (Ezekiel 45:1). This area is designated for the sanctuary, the priests, and the Levites, emphasizing its sacred nature and purpose.

The Sanctuary and the Priests

The central feature of the Holy District is the sanctuary, which is to be located in the midst of the district. Ezekiel 45:3-4 specifies that within this holy portion, a square plot of land is to be set aside for the sanctuary: "From this holy portion, you are to measure off a length of 25,000 cubits and a width of 10,000 cubits, and in it will be the sanctuary, the Most Holy Place." (Ezekiel 45:3). This area is reserved for the priests, the sons of Zadok, who are entrusted with the duties of the sanctuary.

The Levites' Portion

Adjacent to the priests' portion, the Levites are allocated their own section within the Holy District. Ezekiel 45:5 describes this area: "An adjacent area 25,000 cubits long and 10,000 cubits wide will belong to the Levites, who minister in the temple; it will be their possession for towns to live in." (Ezekiel 45:5). This provision underscores the importance of the Levites' role in temple service and their need for a dedicated living space.

The Prince's Portion

The Holy District also includes a portion for the prince, as outlined in Ezekiel 45:7-8. The prince's land is situated on either side of the Holy District and the city property, ensuring that the prince has a vested interest in the spiritual and civic well-being of the nation. The text states: "The prince will have the land bordering each side of the area formed by the sacred contribution and the city property, extending westward on the west side and eastward on the east side, in length equal to one of the tribal portions, from the western border to the eastern border." (Ezekiel 45:7).

Significance in Prophetic Vision

The Holy District represents a future ideal where the land is organized according to divine order, with a clear emphasis on holiness and the centrality of worship. This vision reflects a restored Israel where the presence of God is paramount, and the land is apportioned to ensure the proper functioning of religious and civic life. The detailed instructions for the Holy District highlight the importance of maintaining a sacred space dedicated to the Lord, underscoring the biblical theme of holiness and separation for God's purposes.