Ezekiel 47:16

Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which [is] between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazarhatticon, which [is] by the coast of Hauran.

Hamath {H2574}, Berothah {H1268}, Sibraim {H5453}, which is between the border {H1366} of Damascus {H1834} and the border {H1366} of Hamath {H2574}; Hazarhatticon {H2694}, which is by the coast {H1366} of Hauran {H2362}.

Hamat, Berotah, Sibrayim (which is between the border of Dammesek and the border of Hamat), Hatzer-Hatikhon (which is toward the border of Havran).

On the north side it will extend from the Great Sea by way of Hethlon through Lebo-hamath to Zedad, Berothah, and Sibraim (which is on the border between Damascus and Hamath), as far as Hazer-hatticon, which is on the border of Hauran.

Hamath, Berothah, Sibraim, which is between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath; Hazer-hatticon, which is by the border of Hauran.

Commentary

Ezekiel 47:16 is a precise geographical detail within the prophet Ezekiel's extensive vision of the restored temple and land of Israel. This verse, along with its surrounding context, meticulously outlines specific locations that define the northern boundary of the future, idealized territory God promises to His people.

Context

This verse is found in the latter part of the book of Ezekiel (chapters 40-48), which describes a detailed vision of a new temple, its ordinances, and the re-division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Following the vision of the life-giving river flowing from the temple (Ezekiel 47:1-12), the text shifts to the boundaries of the land itself. The detailed enumeration of towns and regions here underscores the divine precision and reality of this prophetic promise. Unlike the often disputed and shifting borders of historical Israel, these are divinely appointed and fixed, signifying God's complete and perfect restoration.

Key Locations and Themes

  • Hamath: An ancient and important city-state in Syria, Hamath often served as a traditional northern marker for the extent of Israelite influence or territory. Its inclusion here indicates the northernmost reach of the promised land.
  • Berothah and Sibraim: These are less commonly known locations, but their mention highlights the meticulous detail of God's geographical plan. Sibraim is specifically noted as being "between the border of Damascus and the border of Hamath," precisely pinpointing its strategic location along the northern frontier.
  • Damascus: A major city and capital of Syria, often an adversary to Israel in historical accounts. Its border being part of the description emphasizes the extent of the northern boundary, reaching close to this powerful non-Israelite city.
  • Hazarhatticon and Hauran: Hazarhatticon is described as being "by the coast of Hauran." Hauran was a fertile region located east of the Jordan River, in modern-day southern Syria. This detail helps define the northeastern extent of the future territory, extending eastward beyond the traditional Transjordan lands.

The overarching theme is the divine re-establishment of Israel's inheritance. The exactness of these geographical markers emphasizes God's faithfulness and the tangible nature of His promises. It speaks to a future state of peace and secure possession under God's direct ordering, far beyond the historical limitations and conflicts.

Linguistic Insights

While this verse primarily lists place names, the consistent use of the Hebrew word for "border" or "boundary" (gevul - Χ’Φ°ΦΌΧ‘Χ•ΦΌΧœ) throughout Ezekiel 47 is significant. It signifies a clearly defined, divinely established demarcation. This isn't a vague promise of land; it's a precise delineation, underscoring the absolute nature of God's covenant promises and His perfect plan for His people's territory.

Related Scriptures

The concept of divinely appointed land boundaries is also seen in earlier biblical instructions, such as those given in Numbers 34, which outlines the borders of the land of Canaan. Ezekiel's vision here can be seen as an ultimate fulfillment and expansion of those earlier promises, aligning with the broader theme of spiritual and national restoration found throughout his prophecy, particularly in passages concerning the resurrection of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37 and the return to the land in Ezekiel 36.

Practical Application

Even though the specific geographical details might seem distant, this verse offers profound insights for believers today:

  1. God's Faithfulness: It highlights God's meticulous attention to detail and His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His promises, even those that seem geographically specific. If God is so precise with land boundaries, how much more precise is He with His spiritual promises to His people?
  2. Divine Order: The clear demarcation of borders signifies divine order and security. In a world of shifting values and uncertainties, God provides clear boundaries and a secure inheritance for those who trust Him.
  3. Hope for Restoration: This vision, part of a larger prophecy of restoration, assures us that God is capable of bringing complete healing and renewal, even from seemingly impossible situations. It points to a future where God's perfect will is fully realized, not just geographically, but spiritually and relationally.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 8:8

    And from Betah, and from Berothai, cities of Hadadezer, king David took exceeding much brass.

  • Ezekiel 48:1

    ΒΆ Now these [are] the names of the tribes. From the north end to the coast of the way of Hethlon, as one goeth to Hamath, Hazarenan, the border of Damascus northward, to the coast of Hamath; for these are his sides east [and] west; a [portion for] Dan.

  • Numbers 13:21

    ΒΆ So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.

  • Genesis 14:15

    And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which [is] on the left hand of Damascus.

  • Zechariah 9:2

    And Hamath also shall border thereby; Tyrus, and Zidon, though it be very wise.

  • Numbers 34:8

    From mount Hor ye shall point out [your border] unto the entrance of Hamath; and the goings forth of the border shall be to Zedad:

  • 1 Kings 8:65

    And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days, [even] fourteen days.