Ezekiel 47:2

Then brought he me out of the way of the gate northward, and led me about the way without unto the utter gate by the way that looketh eastward; and, behold, there ran out waters on the right side.

Then brought he me out {H3318} of the way {H1870} of the gate {H8179} northward {H6828}, and led me about {H5437} the way {H1870} without unto the utter {H2351} gate {H8179} by the way {H1870} that looketh {H6437} eastward {H6921}; and, behold, there ran out {H6379} waters {H4325} on the right {H3233} side {H3802}.

Next he led me out through the north gate and took me around outside to the outer gate, by way of the east gate, where I saw water trickling from the south side.

Next he brought me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the outer gate facing east, and there I saw the water trickling out from the south side.

Then he brought me out by the way of the gate northward, and led me round by the way without unto the outer gate, by the way of the gate that looketh toward the east; and, behold, there ran out waters on the right side.

Commentary

Ezekiel 47:2 details a specific moment in Ezekiel's incredible vision of a restored temple and the miraculous, life-giving river flowing from it. This verse describes the prophet being led by his angelic guide to a particular vantage point to observe the initial emergence of these significant waters.

Context of the Verse

This verse is situated within Ezekiel's elaborate prophetic vision of a new temple and a transformed land, which begins in Ezekiel chapter 40. In Ezekiel 47:1, the prophet first sees waters issuing from under the threshold of the temple. Verse 2 then describes the angelic guide taking Ezekiel on a circuitous route—out the northern gate, around the outside, and to the eastern gate—specifically to show him where these waters emerge more clearly and begin their journey. This detailed navigation underscores the divine precision and importance of this vision.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Guidance and Revelation: The guide's actions, "brought he me out" and "led me about," emphasize that Ezekiel's understanding of this profound vision is not accidental but divinely orchestrated. It highlights that God reveals His plans and truths to His servants with intentionality.
  • The Source of Life-Giving Water: The central observation of the verse is "behold, there ran out waters on the right side." These are not ordinary waters but symbolize a divine, life-sustaining flow that will bring healing and fertility to a desolate land, as further described in the chapter. The "right side" often denotes a position of strength, favor, or, in terms of orientation, the south side when facing east.
  • Abundant Provision and Restoration: The mere presence of these waters, originating from the temple, signifies God's promise of overflowing provision, spiritual refreshment, and comprehensive restoration for His people and the land. This imagery points to a future era of unparalleled blessing.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "on the right side" translates the Hebrew word yamin (יָמִין). While literally meaning "right hand" or "right side," in the context of the temple and ancient Hebrew geographical orientation (where one typically faced east), the "right side" would correspond to the south. Thus, the waters were observed flowing out from the south side of the eastern gate, providing a precise detail within the architectural vision.

Practical Application

Ezekiel's vision of the temple and the ever-deepening river holds profound spiritual significance for believers today. The waters flowing from God's dwelling place symbolize the abundant life, spiritual cleansing, and healing that flow from His presence. This can be understood as the Holy Spirit, who brings renewal, fruitfulness, and transformation to lives (John 7:38). Just as the river in Ezekiel brought life to barren places, the Spirit of God brings spiritual vitality and healing to a broken world. The meticulous guidance Ezekiel receives also reminds us that spiritual understanding often comes through patient, divine leading. This vision ultimately points to the ultimate restoration and life found in God's eternal presence, echoing the river of the water of life in the New Jerusalem.

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Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 44:4

    ¶ Then brought he me the way of the north gate before the house: and I looked, and, behold, the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD: and I fell upon my face.

  • Ezekiel 44:2

    Then said the LORD unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.