Ezekiel 46:18

KJV

Moreover the prince shall not take of the people's inheritance by oppression, to thrust them out of their possession; [but] he shall give his sons inheritance out of his own possession: that my people be not scattered every man from his possession.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover the prince {H5387} shall not take {H3947} of the people's {H5971} inheritance {H5159} by oppression {H3238}, to thrust {H3238} them out of their possession {H272}; but he shall give his sons {H1121} inheritance {H5157} out of his own possession {H272}: that my people {H5971} be not scattered {H6327} every man {H376} from his possession {H272}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The prince is not to take over any of the people's inheritance, thereby evicting them wrongfully from their property; he is to give his sons an inheritance out of his own property, so that none of my people will be driven off their property.'"

Berean Standard Bible

The prince must not take any of the inheritance of the people by evicting them from their property. He is to provide an inheritance for his sons from his own property, so that none of My people will be displaced from his property.’”

American Standard Version

Moreover the prince shall not take of the people’s inheritance, to thrust them out of their possession; he shall give inheritance to his sons out of his own possession, that my people be not scattered every man from his possession.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 46:18 outlines a crucial regulation for the "prince" in the visionary temple and land distribution, ensuring just governance and the protection of the people's inheritance. It explicitly forbids the prince from seizing the common people's land through oppression, mandating instead that he provide for his sons from his own designated portion. This divine command is designed to prevent the scattering and displacement of the people, thereby preserving social stability and individual security within the divinely ordered community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 46:18 is situated within the extensive prophetic vision of a new temple and a reordered land, detailed in [Ezekiel 40-48](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40-48 - The Temple Vision"). This section describes an idealized, eschatological blueprint for a future Israel, emphasizing meticulous regulations for worship, priestly service, and the equitable division of territory among the tribes. Specifically, chapters [Ezekiel 45](/ezekiel/45 "Ezekiel 45 - The Prince's Portion") and [Ezekiel 46](/ezekiel/46 "Ezekiel 46 - Ordinances for the Prince") focus on the "prince" (or leader), his designated land, and the ordinances governing his conduct. This particular verse serves as a critical safeguard, ensuring that the prince, despite his elevated status, operates within strict divine parameters, preventing the abuse of power that characterized many rulers in Israel's historical past. It immediately follows instructions regarding the prince's offerings and access to the temple, transitioning to his civil responsibilities concerning land.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision given to Ezekiel occurred during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national trauma and displacement. The memory of corrupt leadership, which often exploited the populace and led to social injustice and land dispossession, was fresh in the minds of the exiles (e.g., [Micah 2:2](/micah/2-2 "Micah 2:2 - Coveting Fields and Houses")). In ancient Israel, land inheritance was not merely an economic asset but a foundational element of identity, security, and covenantal blessing, directly tied to God's promise to Abraham and the tribal allotments (e.g., [Numbers 26:52-56](/numbers/26-52-56 "Numbers 26:52-56 - Division of the Land")). The Law of Jubilee (e.g., [Leviticus 25:10](/leviticus/25-10 "Leviticus 25:10 - The Year of Jubilee")) underscored the divine intent for land to remain within families. Therefore, a prince's unjust seizure of land was not just a civil wrong but a theological offense, undermining the very fabric of Israelite society and God's design for His people. This verse provides a stark contrast to the historical realities of oppression that contributed to Israel's downfall and exile.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout Ezekiel's vision and the broader prophetic corpus. Firstly, it underscores **Righteous Leadership**, emphasizing that true authority, even in a divinely appointed system, is a stewardship for the welfare of the people, not a license for self-enrichment or exploitation. This principle resonates with calls for justice from rulers found in passages like [Proverbs 29:4](/proverbs/29-4 "Proverbs 29:4 - A King by Justice Establishes the Land"). Secondly, it highlights the **Protection of Inheritance and Property Rights**, revealing God's deep concern for the individual's security and connection to their ancestral land, which was a tangible expression of their covenant relationship with God. Thirdly, the explicit purpose "that my people be not scattered every man from his possession" speaks to the theme of **Prevention of Oppression and Scattering**. Unjust land seizure and exploitation historically led to social instability, poverty, and the forced displacement of populations, echoing the very scattering Israel experienced in exile. Finally, the verse reveals God's unwavering commitment to **Divine Justice and Order**, demonstrating His desire for a perfectly ordered and equitable society where safeguards are in place to prevent the abuse of power, reflecting His own righteous character.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Prince (Hebrew, _nâsîyʼ'_):** From H5387, meaning "properly, an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik; also a rising mist; captain, chief, cloud, governor, prince, ruler, vapour." In Ezekiel's vision, the _nâsîyʼ_ is a unique figure, distinct from a traditional Davidic king, yet possessing significant authority. This term emphasizes his elevated status and leadership role, but the verse immediately places a critical limitation on that power, highlighting that even an "exalted one" is subject to divine law and must not abuse his position.
* **Oppression (Hebrew, _yânâh'_):** From H3238, a primitive root meaning "to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat; destroy, (thrust out by) oppress(-ing, -ion, -or), proud, vex, do violence." This word vividly describes the unjust and forceful means by which the prince is forbidden to act. It implies not merely taking, but doing so with violence, vexation, and a tyrannical spirit, highlighting the severe nature of the prohibited action and God's abhorrence of such conduct.
* **Possession (Hebrew, _ʼăchuzzâh'_):** From H272, a feminine passive participle meaning "something seized, i.e. a possession (especially of land)." This term, repeated three times in the verse, underscores the central object of protection: the land. It refers to a lawfully acquired and held property, particularly an ancestral inheritance. The repetition emphasizes that this "possession" is sacred and divinely allocated, not to be violated by even the highest earthly authority.
* **Scattered (Hebrew, _pûwts'_):** From H6327, a primitive root meaning "to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse); break (dash, shake) in (to) pieces, cast (abroad), disperse (selves), drive, retire, scatter (abroad), spread abroad." This word describes the devastating social consequence that the prince's unjust actions would cause. It paints a picture of societal fragmentation, where families are uprooted, dispersed, and lose their connection to their land and community, a direct parallel to the exile itself, which resulted from Israel's unfaithfulness and corrupt leadership.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover the prince shall not take of the people's inheritance by oppression":** This clause establishes a foundational prohibition. The "prince" (the designated leader in this future vision) is strictly forbidden from acquiring any part of the common people's "inheritance" (their ancestral land) through "oppression." This highlights God's demand for ethical leadership and His condemnation of any form of tyrannical seizure or exploitation of the vulnerable.
* **"to thrust them out of their possession;":** This phrase clarifies the immediate and devastating consequence of the forbidden act. The oppression would result in the people being forcibly dispossessed, losing their rightful claim and connection to their land. This emphasizes the severe impact on individual families and their economic and social stability.
* **"but he shall give his sons inheritance out of his own possession:":** This clause provides the positive directive, contrasting sharply with the prohibition. The prince is commanded to provide for his own family (his "sons") from his *own* designated "possession," a distinct portion of land specifically allotted to him (as described in [Ezekiel 45:7](/ezekiel/45-7 "Ezekiel 45:7 - The Prince's Allotment")). This ensures his self-sufficiency and prevents any pretext for him to encroach upon the people's land.
* **"that my people be not scattered every man from his possession.":** This final clause states the overarching divine purpose and desired outcome of this regulation. The ultimate goal is to prevent the "scattering" (dispersal, displacement, or fragmentation) of God's "people" from their rightful "possession." This underscores God's concern for the stability, unity, and welfare of His covenant community, ensuring that each family remains rooted in their God-given heritage.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 46:18 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Contrast**, setting the forbidden action of the prince (taking by oppression) against the commanded action (giving from his own possession). This stark juxtaposition emphasizes the moral imperative for righteous leadership. **Repetition** of the word "possession" (`ʼăchuzzâh`) three times within the verse underscores the immense importance of land inheritance in the divine order and the sacredness of individual property rights. The verse also functions as a piece of **Legal Language** or **Ordinance**, characteristic of the detailed regulations found throughout Ezekiel's temple vision. Its declarative and prescriptive tone reflects a divine decree, establishing a clear boundary for authority. Finally, the entire vision, of which this verse is a part, can be seen as a **Utopian or Eschatological Vision**, presenting an ideal future state where divine justice and order prevail, serving as a powerful critique of past failures and a hopeful blueprint for restoration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 46:18 is a profound theological statement on the nature of righteous governance and God's unwavering commitment to justice and the well-being of His people. It reveals that true authority, whether spiritual or temporal, is a stewardship from God, intended to protect and serve, not to exploit or oppress. The divine concern for the individual's land inheritance reflects a broader theological principle: God is the ultimate owner of all things, and human possession is a trust. Violating this trust through oppression not only harms individuals but also defies God's righteous character and His covenantal design for a flourishing community. This verse stands as a prophetic indictment against all forms of tyrannical leadership that prioritize self-interest over the common good, and it paints a picture of the just and stable society God desires for His people, free from the scattering caused by injustice.

* [Deuteronomy 19:14](/deuteronomy/19-14 "Do Not Move Your Neighbor's Boundary Stone")
* [Proverbs 29:4](/proverbs/29-4 "A King by Justice Establishes the Land")
* [Micah 2:1-2](/micah/2-1-2 "Woe to Those Who Covet Fields")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 46:18 offers timeless wisdom for all societies and individuals. For leaders, it serves as a powerful call to integrity, reminding them that their authority is a sacred trust to be exercised for the welfare of those they govern, not for personal gain or the oppression of the vulnerable. It challenges us to examine whether our systems and structures protect the rights and dignity of all, especially the marginalized, or if they inadvertently enable exploitation. For individuals, the verse underscores the value of stewardship over possession and the importance of advocating for justice when rights are violated. It encourages us to trust in God's character as a God of order and equity, who desires the flourishing and stability of His people, and to actively work towards creating communities where no one is unjustly scattered or dispossessed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge contemporary notions of leadership and power, both in secular and religious contexts?**
* **In what ways might "oppression" manifest in modern society, and how can we, as individuals and communities, work to prevent the "scattering" of people from their "possession" or well-being?**
* **What does God's concern for land inheritance in this verse teach us about His care for material security and stability for His people?**

### FAQ
**Who is "the prince" in Ezekiel's vision, and why is he given such specific regulations?**

Answer: The "prince" (Hebrew: _nâsîyʼ_) in Ezekiel's vision (chapters [Ezekiel 40-48](/ezekiel/40 "Ezekiel 40-48 - The Temple Vision")) is a unique figure, distinct from the pre-exilic Davidic kings. He is not given a throne, nor is he called "king." Instead, he appears to be a civil leader with significant responsibilities related to the temple cult and the administration of the land, serving as an intermediary between the priests and the people. He provides offerings for the community and has a specific land allotment ([Ezekiel 45:7](/ezekiel/45-7 "Ezekiel 45:7 - The Prince's Allotment")). The specific regulations, particularly those preventing him from oppressing the people or seizing their inheritance, are crucial because past kings often abused their power, leading to injustice and the scattering of Israel. These rules underscore God's desire for righteous, non-exploitative leadership in the restored community, ensuring stability and preventing the failures of the past.

**Why was land inheritance so critical in ancient Israel, and what does it mean to be "scattered from his possession"?**

Answer: Land inheritance (`ʼăchuzzâh`) was profoundly significant in ancient Israel, far beyond mere economic value. It represented a family's identity, security, and their direct share in God's covenant promises to Abraham ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham")) and the tribal allotments in the Promised Land ([Joshua 14:1-5](/joshua/14-1-5 "Joshua 14:1-5 - Division of the Land by Lot")). It was the foundation of their social and economic well-being, passed down through generations. To be "scattered every man from his possession" (`pûwts`) meant to be dispossessed, uprooted, and dispersed from one's ancestral land. This was a severe consequence, leading to poverty, loss of identity, social instability, and even forced exile, as Israel experienced at the hands of foreign powers due in part to the injustices within their own society. The verse thus emphasizes God's desire to prevent such devastating social and spiritual fragmentation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 46:18, with its vision of a righteous prince who protects his people's inheritance and prevents their scattering, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Unlike earthly rulers who often exploited their subjects, Jesus, the true and eternal King, reigns with absolute justice and integrity. He came not to take from His people but to give, offering an incomparable spiritual inheritance that is incorruptible and unfading ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable")). He is the Good Shepherd who gathers His scattered flock, ensuring that none are lost or dispossessed from their true spiritual "possession" in Him ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd") and [John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - My Sheep Will Never Perish")). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ secured for His people an eternal dwelling place and an inheritance that transcends earthly land, uniting them into one body, the Church, where there is no scattering but perfect communion and security under His benevolent reign ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - We Have Obtained an Inheritance") and [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Foundation of the Apostles and Prophets")). He is the Prince of Peace ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace")) who establishes His kingdom not by oppression but by grace, ensuring His people are eternally secure in their spiritual possession.

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 45:8

In the land shall be his possession in Israel: and my princes shall no more oppress my people; and [the rest of] the land shall they give to the house of Israel according to their tribes.

Ezekiel 22:27

Her princes in the midst thereof [are] like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, [and] to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.

1 Kings 21:19

And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Hast thou killed, and also taken possession? And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, In the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.

Ephesians 4:8

Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Isaiah 11:3

And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:

Isaiah 11:4

But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.

Ezekiel 34:21

Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad;