Ezekiel 44:28

KJV

And it shall be unto them for an inheritance: I [am] their inheritance: and ye shall give them no possession in Israel: I [am] their possession.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it shall be unto them for an inheritance {H5159}: I am their inheritance {H5159}: and ye shall give {H5414} them no possession {H272} in Israel {H3478}: I am their possession {H272}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Their inheritance is to be this: I myself am their inheritance. You are not to grant them any possession in Isra'el - I myself am their possession.

Berean Standard Bible

In regard to their inheritance, I am their inheritance. You are to give them no possession in Israel, for I am their possession.

American Standard Version

And they shall have an inheritance: I am their inheritance; and ye shall give them no possession in Israel; I am their possession.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 44:28 declares a unique and profound provision for the faithful Zadokite priests in the visionary temple: unlike the other tribes who received a territorial inheritance in the land of Israel, their inheritance and possession would be the Lord Himself. This divine pronouncement underscores their consecrated status, their complete dependence on God, and the supreme value of fellowship with the Almighty over any earthly possession, ensuring their sustenance and security through direct divine relationship and the offerings of the people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the latter section of the book of Ezekiel (chapters 40-48), which details a magnificent, idealized temple vision given to the prophet during the Babylonian exile. Following the destruction of the first temple and the desolation of Jerusalem, this vision offered a blueprint for future restoration, a new covenant, and renewed worship. Specifically, [Ezekiel chapter 44](/ezekiel/44 "Ezekiel 44 - Ordinances for the Sanctuary") delineates the stringent regulations for access to the sanctuary and the distinct roles and responsibilities of the Levites and, more particularly, the faithful Zadokite priests. Verses [Ezekiel 44:15-16](/ezekiel/44-15 "Ezekiel 44:15-16 - The Faithful Zadokite Priests") highlight the Zadokites as those who remained true to the Lord when others went astray, thus earning the exclusive right to minister directly to God. Ezekiel 44:28, therefore, serves as a culminating statement regarding the unique provision for these consecrated priests, emphasizing their separation from the typical tribal land inheritance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop is the Babylonian exile (circa 597-538 BC), a period of profound national trauma for Israel. The people had lost their land, their temple, and their king. In ancient Israel, land was not merely property but a sacred inheritance, a tangible sign of God's covenant faithfulness and a source of identity and security, distributed among the tribes as detailed in books like [Numbers](/numbers/26 "Numbers 26 - Census and Land Distribution") and [Joshua](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13 - Division of the Land"). The Levitical tribe, however, traditionally received no land inheritance, as the Lord Himself was their portion, sustained by tithes and offerings from the other tribes (see [Numbers 18:20-24](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20-24 - Provision for the Levites")). Ezekiel 44:28 reiterates and intensifies this principle for the Zadokite priests, distinguishing them even from other Levites who had defiled themselves. This unique arrangement ensured the priests' complete devotion to temple service, free from the distractions and responsibilities of land management, and reinforced their absolute dependence on divine provision.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Ezekiel 44:28](/ezekiel/44-28 "Ezekiel 44:28 - God as the Priests' Inheritance") is **Divine Inheritance**, where God Himself is declared the supreme portion and possession of His faithful servants. This elevates the spiritual over the material, asserting that true wealth and security are found in a relationship with the Almighty, not in earthly real estate. This concept deeply intertwines with the theme of **Consecration and Separation**, as the absence of a land inheritance underscored the priests' unique status as a people set apart exclusively for God's service in the sanctuary. Their lives were to be wholly dedicated to mediating between God and His people, a role that demanded undivided attention. Furthermore, this arrangement highlights **Absolute Dependence on God**, as the priests, lacking personal land for sustenance, were entirely reliant on God's provision, primarily through the offerings and tithes brought by the people (as mentioned in [Ezekiel 44:29-30](/ezekiel/44-29 "Ezekiel 44:29-30 - Priestly Portions from Offerings")). This fostered a profound trust in divine care and underscored the spiritual nature of their calling, foreshadowing the New Testament understanding of spiritual riches in Christ (e.g., [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **inheritance (Hebrew, _nachălâh'_):** From the root meaning "to inherit," this term (H5159) typically refers to a tribal land allotment or a patrimony passed down through generations. It signifies a permanent holding, a portion, or an heirloom. In Ezekiel 44:28, its repeated use, especially in conjunction with God declaring Himself as the inheritance, profoundly redefines its conventional meaning, shifting it from a material possession to a divine relationship.
* **possession (Hebrew, _ʼăchuzzâh'_):** This feminine passive participle (H272) describes something seized or held, specifically a permanent holding or property, often referring to a land possession. Its pairing with "inheritance" in the verse reinforces the idea of something permanently owned or secured. The declaration "I am their possession" asserts God's absolute and sufficient nature as the ultimate, unshakeable security for the priests.
* **Israel (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl'_):** This name (H3478), meaning "he will rule as God," refers to Jacob, his descendants, and the nation as a whole. In this context, "in Israel" signifies the physical land and the collective tribal distribution within it. The phrase "ye shall give them no possession in Israel" explicitly contrasts the priests' unique divine inheritance with the typical land allotments received by the other tribes of the nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it shall be unto them for an inheritance:"** This initial clause sets the stage, introducing the concept of an "inheritance" for the priests. It implies a designated portion or legacy, but the subsequent clauses immediately clarify that this inheritance is not of the usual earthly kind.
* **"I [am] their inheritance:"** This is the pivotal declaration. God Himself, the sovereign Lord, explicitly states that He is the priests' inheritance. This transforms the understanding of "inheritance" from a material asset to a personal, relational, and divine reality, emphasizing the unique and intimate bond between God and His consecrated servants.
* **"and ye shall give them no possession in Israel:"** This negative command reinforces the preceding positive declaration. It explicitly prohibits the allocation of any territorial "possession" (land) to the priests within the boundaries of the land of Israel, distinguishing them from the other tribes who received such allotments. This separation underscored their singular devotion to God and His service.
* **"I [am] their possession."** This final, emphatic statement reiterates and confirms the preceding declaration, using a different but synonymous term for "possession." The repetition serves to underscore the absolute sufficiency and exclusivity of God as their portion, leaving no room for ambiguity. Their security, sustenance, and ultimate fulfillment are found solely in Him.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 44:28 is rich in literary devices that amplify its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, with the phrases "I am their inheritance" and "I am their possession" appearing twice. This repetition creates powerful **Emphasis**, underscoring the absolute truth and certainty of God's declaration. It ensures that the reader grasps the core message: God's self-identification as the priests' sole portion is not a mere suggestion but a definitive, non-negotiable reality. Furthermore, there is a clear **Contrast** established between the typical land inheritance given to the other tribes ("no possession in Israel") and the unique, divine inheritance granted to the priests ("I am their inheritance... I am their possession"). This contrast highlights the priests' distinct calling and their elevated, spiritual privilege. The concept of God as "inheritance" and "possession" also functions as **Symbolism**, where these terms, traditionally denoting material property, are transformed to symbolize a spiritual reality—the intimate relationship, provision, and presence of God Himself. This redefinition elevates the spiritual over the material, inviting a deeper understanding of true wealth and security.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 44:28 presents a profound theological truth: God Himself is the ultimate inheritance and possession for His consecrated servants. This principle extends beyond the specific context of the Zadokite priests to all believers, revealing God's nature as a self-sufficient and all-sufficient provider. It teaches that true spiritual wealth and security are found not in earthly possessions or human endeavors, but in an intimate, dependent relationship with the Creator. This divine declaration elevates the calling of those dedicated to God's service, signifying that fellowship with and exclusive devotion to the Lord are the greatest treasures, far surpassing any material gain or territorial claim. It challenges believers to re-evaluate their priorities, recognizing that the greatest privilege is to have God as their portion, trusting in His unfailing provision and finding their ultimate satisfaction in Him alone.

* [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance")
* [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - No Inheritance for Levi")
* [Psalm 16:5](/psalm/16-5 "Psalm 16:5 - The Lord is My Chosen Portion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 44:28 offers a timeless and transformative principle for all who follow Christ today. While we are not Old Testament priests serving in a physical temple, the spiritual truth remains: our ultimate inheritance, our deepest security, and our greatest treasure is God Himself. This verse calls us to a radical reorientation of our values, challenging the pervasive cultural narrative that equates worth and security with material accumulation. It invites us to cultivate a profound dependence on God, trusting that He will provide for those who prioritize His kingdom and service above all else. Embracing this truth means living a life consecrated to Him, where our satisfaction is found not in what we possess, but in the One who possesses us. It encourages us to surrender worldly ambitions that might compete with our devotion to God, recognizing that true spiritual riches far outweigh any earthly gain. Our citizenship is in heaven, and our true wealth is in Christ, prompting us to live with an eternal perspective that shapes our daily choices and pursuits.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to seek security or satisfaction outside of God?**
* **How does the concept of God as your "inheritance" challenge your understanding of true wealth and success?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to demonstrate a greater dependence on God for your needs?**
* **How might prioritizing God as your sole possession impact your stewardship of time, talents, and material resources?**

### FAQ

**Who are "them" in Ezekiel 44:28, and why were they given a unique inheritance?**

Answer: "Them" refers specifically to the faithful Zadokite priests, as distinguished in [Ezekiel 44:15-16](/ezekiel/44-15 "Ezekiel 44:15-16 - The Sons of Zadok"). These were the descendants of Zadok who remained loyal to God during a period when other Levites went astray and engaged in idolatry. Their unique inheritance—God Himself rather than land—was a divine reward for their faithfulness and underscored their singular role in mediating between God and His people in the visionary temple. It ensured their complete devotion to sacred service, free from the distractions of managing earthly possessions, and highlighted their absolute dependence on divine provision through the offerings of the people (as seen in [Ezekiel 44:29-30](/ezekiel/44-29 "Ezekiel 44:29-30 - Priestly Portions")).

**How does this concept of God as an inheritance relate to New Testament believers?**

Answer: While New Testament believers are not Levitical priests, the principle of God as our inheritance is profoundly relevant. In Christ, all believers are considered a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")). Our inheritance is not a physical land, but spiritual blessings in Christ, including eternal life, the Holy Spirit, and fellowship with God. [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ") speaks of believers having an inheritance in Christ, and [Colossians 1:12](/colossians/1-12 "Colossians 1:12 - Inheritance of the Saints") refers to the saints' share in the inheritance of light. This means our ultimate security, satisfaction, and provision come from our relationship with God through Jesus Christ, echoing the profound truth that God Himself is our most precious and enduring possession.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 44:28 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. While the Old Testament priests found their inheritance in the Lord through their temple service and the offerings, Christ is the **Great High Priest** ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) who offered Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice, thereby inaugurating a new and living way to God. In Him, all believers are made part of a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), no longer needing an earthly temple or a physical land inheritance, for our true dwelling is in Christ and our citizenship is in heaven ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Heavenly Citizenship")). Jesus Himself is the ultimate "inheritance" for all who believe, far surpassing any earthly portion. He is the one in whom we "have obtained an inheritance" ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")), the "riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints" ([Ephesians 1:18](/ephesians/1-18 "Ephesians 1:18 - The Hope of His Calling")). Through His atoning work, we are reconciled to God, and the very presence of God, the Holy Spirit, dwells within us ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the promise of God being the priests' possession is fulfilled in a far grander way for all believers in Christ, as we possess Him, and He possesses us, granting us access to "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")) and an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")).

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

Joshua 13:33

But unto the tribe of Levi Moses gave not [any] inheritance: the LORD God of Israel [was] their inheritance, as he said unto them.

Numbers 18:20

¶ And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I [am] thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.

Deuteronomy 10:9

Wherefore Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the LORD [is] his inheritance, according as the LORD thy God promised him.

Deuteronomy 18:1

¶ The priests the Levites, [and] all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and his inheritance.

Deuteronomy 18:2

Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren: the LORD [is] their inheritance, as he hath said unto them.

Ezekiel 45:4

The holy [portion] of the land shall be for the priests the ministers of the sanctuary, which shall come near to minister unto the LORD: and it shall be a place for their houses, and an holy place for the sanctuary.

Ezekiel 48:9

The oblation that ye shall offer unto the LORD [shall be] of five and twenty thousand in length, and of ten thousand in breadth.