Ezekiel 46:10

And the prince in the midst of them, when they go in, shall go in; and when they go forth, shall go forth.

And the prince {H5387} in the midst {H8432} of them, when they go in {H935}, shall go in {H935}; and when they go forth {H3318}, shall go forth {H3318}.

[On these occasions,] the prince is to be among them when they enter; and when they leave, they are to leave together.

When the people enter, the prince shall go in with them, and when they leave, he shall leave.

And the prince, when they go in, shall go in in the midst of them; and when they go forth, they shall go forth together.

Ezekiel 46:10 provides a specific detail about the movement of "the prince" within the elaborate visionary temple complex described in Ezekiel, highlighting his orderly and integral participation in the sacred rituals alongside the people.

Context

This verse is situated within a lengthy prophetic section of Ezekiel (chapters 40-48) that details a comprehensive vision of a new temple, its layout, its ordinances, and the worship practices associated with it. Given to the prophet during the Babylonian exile, this vision served as a powerful message of hope and restoration for a future Israel, emphasizing God's meticulous plans for a renewed covenant relationship and a purified sanctuary. Chapters 45 and 46 specifically outline the roles and regulations for the priests, Levites, and the prince, ensuring divine order in all aspects of temple worship.

Key Themes

  • The Prince's Integral Participation: The verse emphasizes that the prince is not an observer or a detached authority figure, but a full participant in the worship life of the community. He enters and exits the temple gates in synchronization with the people, signifying his solidarity and shared experience in drawing near to God. This portrays a leadership that is both exemplary and integrated, rather than exclusive or distant.
  • Divine Order and Regulation: The precision of the command—"when they go in, shall go in; and when they go forth, shall go forth"—underscores the meticulous divine order governing all activities within this visionary temple. Every movement, every role, and every ritual is divinely prescribed, ensuring holiness, reverence, and a harmonious flow of worship. This reflects the absolute sovereignty of God over His sanctuary and His people.
  • Symbolism of the Prince: The identity of "the prince" (Hebrew: nasi) in Ezekiel's vision has been a subject of theological discussion. While distinct from the pre-exilic Davidic kings (*melech*), many scholars interpret this figure as a future, ideal leader of Israel, perhaps even a Messianic figure who would perfectly lead His people in worship and righteousness. His adherence to the temple's rules points to a leader who is perfectly aligned with God's will and who guides the people in true devotion.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term used for "prince" is nasi (נָשִׂיא), which literally means "one lifted up" or "chief." This is significant because it is distinct from melech (מֶלֶךְ), the common word for "king." The use of nasi suggests a leader whose authority is derived from God's appointment and who operates within the divine framework, rather than an absolute monarch. This might imply a future governmental structure where the human leader is entirely subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. The repetition of "go in" and "go forth" highlights the consistent, rhythmic, and orderly nature of the prince's movement, mirroring the congregation's actions and reinforcing his role as an exemplar.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 46:10 offers timeless principles for leadership and congregational life. It teaches that true spiritual leadership is characterized by participation, humility, and adherence to divine instruction. Leaders are called to set an example by actively engaging in worship and living according to God's established order, rather than standing aloof. For believers, this verse encourages a deeper appreciation for the order and purpose in corporate worship, reminding us that our participation in God's presence is both a privilege and a responsibility. Ultimately, the vision of a perfectly ordered sanctuary led by a righteous prince points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest and perfect King, who perfectly leads us into the Father's presence and establishes the eternal order of His kingdom.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 42:4

    When I remember these [things], I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:20

    And David said to all the congregation, Now bless the LORD your God. And all the congregation blessed the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the LORD, and the king.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:22

    And did eat and drink before the LORD on that day with great gladness. And they made Solomon the son of David king the second time, and anointed [him] unto the LORD [to be] the chief governor, and Zadok [to be] priest.

  • 2 Samuel 6:14

    And David danced before the LORD with all [his] might; and David [was] girded with a linen ephod.

  • 2 Samuel 6:19

    And he dealt among all the people, [even] among the whole multitude of Israel, as well to the women as men, to every one a cake of bread, and a good piece [of flesh], and a flagon [of wine]. So all the people departed every one to his house.

  • Nehemiah 8:8

    So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused [them] to understand the reading.

  • Nehemiah 8:9

    ¶ And Nehemiah, which [is] the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day [is] holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.

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