Ezekiel 37:25

KJV

And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, [even] they, and their children, and their children's children for ever: and my servant David [shall be] their prince for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall dwell {H3427} in the land {H776} that I have given {H5414} unto Jacob {H3290} my servant {H5650}, wherein your fathers {H1} have dwelt {H3427}; and they shall dwell {H3427} therein, even they, and their children {H1121}, and their children's {H1121} children {H1121} for ever {H5769}: and my servant {H5650} David {H1732} shall be their prince {H5387} for {H5704} ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will live in the land I gave to Ya'akov my servant, where your ancestors lived; they will live there - they, their children, and their grandchildren, forever; and David my servant will be their leader forever.

Berean Standard Bible

They will live in the land that I gave to My servant Jacob, where your fathers lived. They will live there forever with their children and grandchildren, and My servant David will be their prince forever.

American Standard Version

And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, they, and their children, and their children’s children, for ever: and David my servant shall be their prince for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 37:25 is a powerful prophetic declaration of God's enduring covenant faithfulness, promising the permanent restoration of Israel to their ancestral land and their eternal dwelling there. Central to this vision is the establishment of an everlasting kingdom under a righteous Davidic prince, signifying a future era of unparalleled peace, unity, and divine governance for God's people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of a profound prophetic sequence in Ezekiel 37. It immediately follows the vivid vision of the [Valley of Dry Bones](/ezekiel/37-1 "Ezekiel 37:1-14 - Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones"), which symbolizes the spiritual and national resurrection of Israel from death and despair. This resurrection is then followed by the symbolic act of the [two sticks](/ezekiel/37-15 "Ezekiel 37:15-24 - The Two Sticks United"), representing the reunification of the divided kingdoms of Judah and Israel into a single, unified nation under one king. Ezekiel 37:25 solidifies the eternal nature of this restored and unified nation, ensuring their secure and perpetual dwelling in the land, under a single, divinely appointed shepherd and prince, thus transitioning from restoration to eternal establishment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Ezekiel 37 was given during the Babylonian exile, a period of immense despair and displacement for the Jewish people. They had lost their land, their temple, and their monarchy, leading to questions about God's covenant promises and their future as a nation. The promise of returning to "the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt" directly addresses this deep longing for home and continuity with their patriarchal heritage, recalling the original land promises made to [Abraham](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abram") and [Jacob](/genesis/28-13 "Genesis 28:13 - God's Promise to Jacob at Bethel"). The concept of a perpetual prince from the line of David also speaks to the profound significance of the Davidic monarchy in Israelite theology, which was seen as the divinely ordained leadership for the nation.

* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 37:25 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, **Permanent Restoration and Dwelling** emphasizes an irreversible return and secure possession of the land, fulfilling ancient covenant promises and ensuring a lasting presence free from future exile. This theme of secure dwelling is reinforced by the repetition of the word "dwell." Secondly, the declaration "my servant David shall be their prince for ever" introduces the theme of the **Eternal Davidic Reign/Messianic Rule**. This points beyond the historical King David to a future, ideal ruler from his lineage, echoing the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David") and anticipating an everlasting kingdom. Lastly, the entire passage underscores **God's Unwavering Covenant Faithfulness**. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness and subsequent exile, God remains committed to His promises, foreshadowing a future era of renewed covenant relationship, marked by obedience, blessing, and lasting peace under a righteous, divinely appointed leader.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **yâshab (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** This primitive root means "to sit down," but by implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." It conveys a sense of settledness, permanence, and security. In Ezekiel 37:25, its repetition ("they shall dwell... and they shall dwell therein") emphasizes the absolute and enduring nature of Israel's re-establishment in the land, not merely a temporary return but a lasting habitation.
* **Dâvid (Hebrew, _Dâvid'_):** Derived from a root meaning "loving," David refers to the youngest son of Jesse, the historical King David. In prophetic contexts like Ezekiel, "my servant David" transcends the historical figure to become a title for the ideal, future king from David's lineage, the Messiah, who embodies God's covenant promises of an eternal dynasty and throne.
* **nâsîyʼ (Hebrew, _nâsîyʼ'_):** This term means "an exalted one," specifically "a king or sheik," but also "a rising mist." While often translated "prince," it can denote a ruler, chieftain, or governor. In Ezekiel, its use instead of "melek" (king) might emphasize a divinely appointed leader whose authority is derived from God, perhaps indicating a unique, priestly-kingly role, or a ruler under the ultimate sovereignty of God Himself.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt;":** This clause establishes the setting and the divine origin of the promise. "The land" refers to the Promised Land, specifically identified as the one God "given unto Jacob my servant," emphasizing its covenantal basis and the continuity with Israel's patriarchal heritage. The phrase "wherein your fathers have dwelt" reinforces this ancestral claim and the deep-rooted connection to the land.
* **"and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children, and their children's children for ever:":** This segment reiterates the permanence of their dwelling, extending it across generations. The repetition of "dwell" underscores the security and stability of this future state. The phrase "for ever" (H5769, _ʻôwlâm_) signifies an indefinite, perpetual duration, indicating an eternal, unbreakable bond between the people and the land under God's blessing.
* **"and my servant David shall be their prince for ever.":** This final clause introduces the everlasting leadership that will govern this restored and perpetually dwelling people. "My servant David" points to a future, ideal ruler from David's lineage, who will hold the title of "prince" (H5387, _nâsîyʼ_). This leadership, like the dwelling, is also "for ever," signifying an eternal reign that brings ultimate stability, righteousness, and peace to the reunited nation.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 37:25 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Repetition** is prominent, with the word "dwell" appearing multiple times, emphasizing the permanence and security of Israel's future in the land. Similarly, the phrase "for ever" is repeated, underscoring the eternal nature of both their dwelling and the Davidic prince's reign. This repetition creates a sense of absolute certainty and divine irrevocability. **Symbolism** is also at play, with "the land" representing not just a physical territory but the fulfillment of God's covenant promises and a place of blessing and security. "My servant David" is a significant **Type** or **Figure**, pointing beyond the historical king to the ideal, messianic ruler who will embody God's perfect leadership. The entire verse functions as a **Prophecy**, a divinely inspired declaration of future events, offering hope and assurance of God's ultimate plan for His people. The use of **Covenant Language** ("land that I have given unto Jacob my servant") grounds the future hope in God's historical faithfulness to His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 37:25 stands as a monumental declaration of God's unwavering faithfulness and His ultimate plan for the restoration and eternal blessing of His people. It speaks to the enduring nature of God's covenants, particularly the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants, which promised land and an eternal dynasty respectively. The prophecy envisions a future where God's people are not only reunited and returned to their promised inheritance but are also governed by a divinely appointed, eternal ruler, ensuring perpetual peace and righteousness. This points to a final, eschatological reality where God's kingdom is fully established, marked by His presence, His people, and His perfect rule. The permanence described ("for ever") signifies an ultimate, irreversible state of blessing, transcending any temporary exiles or divisions.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")
* [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Eternal Reign")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 37:25 offers profound comfort and enduring hope for believers across all generations. It reminds us that God's promises are not contingent on human faithfulness but are rooted in His unchanging character and sovereign will. In a world marked by instability, division, and fleeting leadership, this verse anchors our hope in a divine reality where true peace, unity, and righteous governance will ultimately prevail. It encourages us to trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration, knowing that He is faithful to complete what He has started. For those experiencing displacement, brokenness, or despair, this prophecy speaks of a secure dwelling and an eternal leader who brings lasting peace. It calls us to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our ultimate security and belonging are found in God's everlasting kingdom, under the reign of His chosen King.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of an "eternal dwelling" in Ezekiel 37:25 provide comfort and security in a world often marked by instability and displacement?**
* **What does the concept of "my servant David" as an eternal prince teach us about the nature of true leadership and governance?**
* **In what ways does this prophecy encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem to contradict His promises?**
* **How can the vision of a unified people under one righteous ruler inspire our prayers and efforts for unity within the church today?**

### FAQ
**Who is "my servant David" referring to in this prophecy?**

Answer: While "my servant David" certainly references the historical King David, in prophetic contexts like Ezekiel, it transcends the individual to become a messianic title. It refers to a future, ideal ruler from David's lineage who will embody the promises of the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). This figure is understood to be the Messiah, the ultimate King who will reign eternally over God's people, establishing a kingdom of righteousness and peace. For Christians, this prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Son of David, whose kingdom is everlasting.

**Is the "land" mentioned in this verse a literal geographical place, or does it have a spiritual meaning?**

Answer: The "land" in Ezekiel 37:25 primarily refers to the literal geographical land of Israel, the Promised Land that God covenanted to Abraham and Jacob. The prophecy addresses the physical return of the exiles to their ancestral home. However, in its ultimate fulfillment, especially from a New Testament perspective, the concept of "dwelling in the land" expands to encompass a spiritual reality. It symbolizes the secure and eternal dwelling of God's people within His spiritual kingdom, a place of peace, rest, and intimate fellowship with God, which is fully realized in the new heavens and new earth (see [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

**How does this prophecy relate to the New Covenant mentioned elsewhere in the Old Testament?**

Answer: Ezekiel 37:25 is deeply intertwined with the themes of the New Covenant, particularly as described in Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36. The New Covenant promises a renewed heart, God's law written on the heart, and an intimate relationship with God (see [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The Law Written on the Heart")). The secure dwelling in the land and the eternal reign of the Davidic prince in Ezekiel 37:25 are the outward manifestations and blessings of this internal spiritual transformation. Under the New Covenant, the people are enabled to obey God, and their unity and secure dwelling under the Messiah's rule are the natural outcome of this renewed relationship, ensuring lasting peace and blessing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 37:25 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "servant David" who is to be their "prince for ever" is none other than the Messiah, the Son of God, who came in the lineage of David. The angel Gabriel's prophecy to Mary explicitly states that God "will give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary")). Jesus, the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"), gathers His scattered sheep, uniting them into one flock under His leadership, fulfilling the reunification promised in Ezekiel 37. Through His atoning work, He brings about the spiritual resurrection of those who were "dry bones" in sin, breathing new life into them by His Spirit ([Ephesians 2:1-5](/ephesians/2-1 "Ephesians 2:1-5 - Made Alive in Christ")). The promise of an eternal dwelling is realized in the spiritual kingdom of God, where believers, through Christ, find their true and lasting home, a secure inheritance that is imperishable and undefiled ([1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - A Living Hope and Incorruptible Inheritance")). Ultimately, this prophecy points to the new heavens and new earth, where God dwells with His people, and the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is their eternal light and King ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with His People") and [Revelation 22:5](/revelation/22-5 "Revelation 22:5 - The Lamb is Their Light")). Thus, Ezekiel 37:25 is a vibrant portrait of Christ's eternal reign, His unifying work, and the everlasting security He provides for His redeemed people.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 37:24

And David my servant [shall be] king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.

Amos 9:15

And I will plant them upon their land, and they shall no more be pulled up out of their land which I have given them, saith the LORD thy God.

Ezekiel 28:25

Thus saith the Lord GOD; When I shall have gathered the house of Israel from the people among whom they are scattered, and shall be sanctified in them in the sight of the heathen, then shall they dwell in their land that I have given to my servant Jacob.

Ezekiel 36:28

And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.

Ezekiel 37:21

And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land:

Daniel 2:44

And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, [but] it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.

Daniel 2:45

Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream [is] certain, and the interpretation thereof sure.