Ezekiel 37:26

KJV

Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them: and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover I will make {H3772} a covenant {H1285} of peace {H7965} with them; it shall be an everlasting {H5769} covenant {H1285} with them: and I will place {H5414} them, and multiply {H7235} them, and will set {H5414} my sanctuary {H4720} in the midst {H8432} of them for evermore {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will make a covenant of peace with them, an everlasting covenant. I will give to them, increase their numbers, and set my sanctuary among them forever.

Berean Standard Bible

And I will make a covenant of peace with them; it will be an everlasting covenant. I will establish them and multiply them, and I will set My sanctuary among them forever.

American Standard Version

Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 37:26 encapsulates God's profound promise of future restoration and enduring relationship with His people, Israel, following their spiritual and national revival. It details the establishment of an "everlasting covenant of peace," signifying comprehensive well-being and security. Central to this promise is God's commitment to dwell perpetually among them through His sanctuary, ensuring their multiplication and sustained presence in the land, thus fulfilling ancient covenantal blessings and securing an intimate, unbreakable bond.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes Ezekiel 37, a pivotal chapter in the prophet's message of hope and restoration for exiled Israel. The chapter begins with the dramatic vision of the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14), symbolizing the spiritual resurrection and national revival of a seemingly dead nation. This is followed by the prophecy of the two sticks (Ezekiel 37:15-23), representing the reunification of the divided kingdoms of Judah and Israel under one Davidic shepherd-king. Verses 24-25 describe this unified people living securely in their land, obedient to God and their king. Verse 26 then elaborates on the divine covenant that undergirds this restored state, emphasizing its eternal nature and God's perpetual presence, which sets the stage for the detailed description of the new temple in subsequent chapters (Ezekiel 40-48). The promises here are foundational to understanding the ultimate destiny of God's people and the nature of His future kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), a period of profound national despair and spiritual despondency for the Jewish people. Jerusalem had been destroyed, the temple desecrated, and the people scattered, leading to questions about God's faithfulness and the permanence of His covenant promises (e.g., [the lament in Psalm 137](/psalms/137 "Psalm 137 - By the Rivers of Babylon")). The exiles longed for a return to their land, the rebuilding of the temple, and the restoration of their national identity. In this context, Ezekiel's prophecies of a "covenant of peace" and God's dwelling among them offered radical hope, directly addressing their deepest fears and aspirations. The concept of a "sanctuary" was central to Israelite identity, representing God's tangible presence among His people, a tradition rooted in the Tabernacle and the Solomonic Temple. The promise of an "everlasting" covenant stood in stark contrast to Israel's historical pattern of breaking covenants, highlighting God's unchangeable faithfulness.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 37:26 powerfully articulates several core theological themes running through the book of Ezekiel and the broader prophetic corpus. The primary theme is **Divine Restoration**, as God promises to reverse the effects of exile and judgment, bringing His people back to their land and to spiritual vitality, as seen in the vision of the [dry bones coming to life](/ezekiel/37-1-14 "Ezekiel 37:1-14 - The Valley of Dry Bones"). This restoration is secured by an **Everlasting Covenant**, emphasizing God's unwavering faithfulness and the permanence of His promises, unlike the conditional covenants broken by Israel's disobedience (e.g., the [Sinai Covenant](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - The Sinai Covenant")). The promise of a **Covenant of Peace** (Hebrew: *bᵉrîṯ shālôwm*) signifies not merely the absence of conflict but comprehensive well-being, wholeness, and prosperity in their relationship with God and in their land, a concept also found in [Isaiah's prophecies of peace](/isaiah/54-10 "Isaiah 54:10 - God's Everlasting Kindness"). Crucially, the theme of **Divine Presence** is highlighted by the promise, "I will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore," indicating a renewed and intimate fellowship with God, reminiscent of God's dwelling with Israel in the wilderness (e.g., [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Building the Sanctuary")). Finally, the promise to "place them, and multiply them" echoes the **Abrahamic Covenant** (e.g., [Genesis 12:2](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2 - The Abrahamic Covenant")), reinforcing God's commitment to His original promises of land and abundant descendants.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Covenant (Hebrew, _bᵉrîyth'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to cut," this term refers to a compact or alliance, often established through a solemn ritual involving the cutting of flesh and passing between the pieces (as in [Genesis 15](/genesis/15 "Genesis 15 - God's Covenant with Abram")). In Ezekiel 37:26, it signifies a divinely initiated and binding agreement, emphasizing God's commitment to His people. The repetition of "covenant" underscores its central importance and enduring nature.
* **Peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** More than just the absence of war, *shâlôwm* encompasses a holistic state of well-being, completeness, harmony, prosperity, and security. In the context of a "covenant of peace," it denotes a restored, flourishing relationship with God, characterized by divine favor and comprehensive blessing, a stark contrast to the judgment and turmoil experienced during the exile.
* **Sanctuary (Hebrew, _miqdâsh'_):** This term refers to a consecrated, holy place, specifically where God dwells or is present. From the Tabernacle to the Temple, the sanctuary was the focal point of Israel's worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence among His people. Its promise here signifies the restoration of intimate fellowship and the perpetual indwelling of God among His purified people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them;":** This opening clause declares God's sovereign initiative to establish a new, beneficial relationship with His people. The "covenant of peace" signifies a comprehensive state of well-being, security, and reconciliation, overcoming the past brokenness and judgment. It is a divine act of grace, not a human achievement.
* **"it shall be an everlasting covenant with them:":** This phrase emphasizes the permanence and unbreakable nature of this new covenant. Unlike previous covenants that Israel's unfaithfulness had seemingly nullified, this one is secured by God's eternal faithfulness, guaranteeing its perpetual duration and the enduring security of His people.
* **"and I will place them, and multiply them,":** This echoes the foundational promises made to Abraham regarding the land and numerous descendants (e.g., [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - Promise of Land") and [Genesis 17:2](/genesis/17-2 "Genesis 17:2 - Promise of Many Descendants")). It signifies a return from exile, re-establishment in their promised land, and a flourishing population, reversing the desolation and diminishment experienced during judgment.
* **"and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore.":** This climactic promise signifies the ultimate restoration of intimate divine-human fellowship. God's "sanctuary" represents His dwelling presence, indicating that He will reside perpetually among His people. This presence is the source and guarantee of the "peace" and "everlasting" nature of the covenant, ensuring unbroken communion and protection.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 37:26 employs several significant literary devices to convey its powerful message of hope and restoration. **Repetition** is evident in the phrase "covenant... covenant" and "everlasting... for evermore," which serves to emphasize the certainty, permanence, and central importance of God's commitment. The phrase "I will" functions as a **Divine Oracle**, reinforcing God's sovereign initiative and unshakeable resolve to fulfill these promises. The **Symbolism** of the "sanctuary" is profound, representing God's tangible and intimate presence among His people, a return to the ideal state of fellowship that was disrupted by sin and exile. There is also an implicit **Contrast** between the past broken covenants and the future "everlasting covenant," highlighting God's steadfast love despite human failure. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Climax** to the preceding prophecies of dry bones and unified sticks, bringing together the themes of national revival and reunification under the overarching promise of God's perpetual dwelling and covenant faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 37:26 stands as a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and His ultimate plan for the redemption and restoration of His people. The "covenant of peace" speaks to God's desire for holistic well-being and reconciliation, not just an absence of conflict but a state of flourishing in His presence. This promise of an "everlasting covenant" underscores God's commitment to His promises, transcending human failure and historical setbacks. It points to a future where divine presence is not merely occasional but perpetual, forming the very core of His people's identity and security. This vision of God dwelling in the midst of His people, multiplying them, and securing them in an eternal covenant of peace is a cornerstone of biblical eschatology, revealing God's ultimate purpose to establish His kingdom fully on earth.

* [Isaiah 55:3](/isaiah/55-3 "Isaiah 55:3 - An Everlasting Covenant")
* [Jeremiah 32:38-41](/jeremiah/32-38-41 "Jeremiah 32:38-41 - God's Everlasting Covenant with Israel")
* [Zechariah 8:3](/zechariah/8-3 "Zechariah 8:3 - God Dwells in Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 37:26 offers a profound wellspring of hope and assurance for believers today. It reminds us that God's faithfulness is not contingent upon our performance but is rooted in His unchanging character and eternal purposes. The promise of an "everlasting covenant of peace" speaks to the deep human longing for security, belonging, and wholeness, which ultimately finds its fulfillment in God's presence. For those who feel scattered, broken, or despairing, this verse proclaims that God is able to gather, restore, and establish a permanent dwelling among His people. It encourages us to trust in God's sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem bleak, knowing that His promises are "everlasting" and His presence is guaranteed. Moreover, the call to be "placed" and "multiplied" suggests a divine purpose for fruitfulness and growth within the context of His covenant.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of an "everlasting covenant of peace" challenge or comfort your understanding of God's relationship with humanity?**
* **In what ways do you personally experience God's "sanctuary in the midst of you" today, and how does this presence bring peace and security?**
* **Considering the promise to "place them, and multiply them," how might God be calling you to be fruitful and established in your current context for His glory?**

### FAQ
**What is the "covenant of peace" mentioned in Ezekiel 37:26?**

Answer: The "covenant of peace" (Hebrew: *bᵉrîyth shâlôwm*) is a divine promise from God to His people, Israel, signifying a comprehensive state of well-being, wholeness, and security. It's more than just the absence of conflict; it encompasses prosperity, harmony, reconciliation, and flourishing relationships—both with God and within the community. This covenant stands in stark contrast to the judgment and turmoil Israel experienced due to their unfaithfulness, promising a future of divine favor and uninterrupted blessing. It is also mentioned in other prophetic books, such as [Isaiah 54:10](/isaiah/54-10 "Isaiah 54:10 - God's Everlasting Kindness and Covenant of Peace").

**How is this covenant "everlasting," especially given Israel's past failures?**

Answer: The term "everlasting" (Hebrew: *ʻôwlâm*) emphasizes the permanent and unbreakable nature of this covenant. Unlike previous covenants, which were conditional and often broken by Israel's disobedience (e.g., the [Mosaic Covenant](/exodus/24 "Exodus 24 - The Mosaic Covenant")), this future covenant is secured by God's own faithfulness and unchangeable character. It signifies that God's ultimate plan for His people will not be thwarted by human sin but will be eternally established through His divine power and grace. This points forward to the New Covenant, which is also described as everlasting in [Jeremiah 32:40](/jeremiah/32-40 "Jeremiah 32:40 - An Everlasting Covenant").

**What does it mean for God to "set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore"?**

Answer: This powerful promise signifies the restoration of God's intimate and perpetual dwelling among His people. The "sanctuary" (Hebrew: *miqdâsh*) represents the holy place where God's presence is uniquely manifested, from the Tabernacle in the wilderness to the Temple in Jerusalem. Its placement "in the midst of them for evermore" means that God will reside permanently and centrally among His people, ensuring unbroken communion, protection, and the continuous flow of His blessings. It speaks to the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to be with His people, a theme that culminates in the New Testament vision of God dwelling with humanity (e.g., [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 37:26 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of God's everlasting covenant of peace and the very dwelling place of God among humanity. The "covenant of peace" promised by Ezekiel is fully realized in the New Covenant established through Christ's atoning sacrifice, for He is our peace, breaking down the wall of hostility between God and humanity, and between Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14-16). Through His blood, a new and better covenant, truly "everlasting," was inaugurated (Hebrews 8:6-13, Hebrews 13:20), securing eternal reconciliation and access to God. Furthermore, the promise, "I will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore," is fulfilled in multiple layers through Christ. First, Jesus Himself is the true Temple, the place where God dwells among men (John 1:14, John 2:19-21). Second, through the Holy Spirit, believers become living temples, with God's Spirit dwelling within them (1 Corinthians 3:16, 2 Corinthians 6:16). The Church, the body of Christ, becomes the spiritual sanctuary where God's presence is manifested collectively (Ephesians 2:21-22). Finally, this promise anticipates the New Jerusalem, where God's ultimate sanctuary, His very presence, will be with His people for eternity, and there will be no need for a physical temple (Revelation 21:3, Revelation 21:22). Thus, the restoration, multiplication, and perpetual divine presence envisioned in Ezekiel 37:26 are perfectly achieved in Christ and extended to all who are united with Him, making us part of God's flourishing, Spirit-indwelt 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

Isaiah 55:3

Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [even] the sure mercies of David.

Jeremiah 30:19

And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.

Ezekiel 34:25

And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.

Ezekiel 43:7

¶ And he said unto me, Son of man, the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet, where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever, and my holy name, shall the house of Israel no more defile, [neither] they, nor their kings, by their whoredom, nor by the carcases of their kings in their high places.

Leviticus 26:11

And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you.

Leviticus 26:12

And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.

Ezekiel 16:62

And I will establish my covenant with thee; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD: