47:20 47:20

Ezekiel 47:21

47:22 47:22

Bible Versions

So shall ye divide this land unto you according to the tribes of Israel.
So shall ye divide {H2505} this land {H776} unto you according to the tribes {H7626} of Israel {H3478}.
"'This is the territory you are to divide among the tribes of Isra'el.
You are to divide this land among yourselves according to the tribes of Israel.
So shall ye divide this land unto you according to the tribes of Israel.

Ezekiel 47:21 marks a pivotal point in Ezekiel's grand vision of a restored Israel, shifting focus from the miraculous river flowing from the temple to the practicalities of a renewed nation's territory. The verse declares, "So shall ye divide this land unto you according to the tribes of Israel."

Context

This verse is found within chapters 40-48 of Ezekiel, which describe a detailed prophetic vision of a new temple, a purified priesthood, and a restored land for Israel. Following the awe-inspiring description of the life-giving river in Ezekiel 47:1-12, the vision turns to the boundaries of the land and its equitable distribution. This division is not merely a geographical exercise but symbolizes God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and the establishment of divine order in the future millennial kingdom. It echoes earlier instructions for land division given to Moses in Numbers 34 and actualized by Joshua in Joshua 13-19, but with significant prophetic modifications.

Key Themes

  • Divine Inheritance and Restoration: The primary theme is God's unwavering commitment to restore His people to their land, fulfilling ancient promises. The division ensures that every tribe receives its designated portion, signifying a complete and just restoration after periods of exile and dispersion.
  • Order and Justice: The phrase "according to the tribes of Israel" emphasizes a methodical and fair distribution. This reflects God's character as a God of order, ensuring that justice prevails in His kingdom. It contrasts with the chaotic and unjust conditions often experienced by Israel in their history.
  • Future Hope: This vision provides a profound message of hope, pointing to a future time when Israel will dwell securely in their land under God's direct rule, with the temple and its life-giving presence at the center.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "divide" is chalaq (חָלַק), which means to apportion, distribute, or assign. It conveys the idea of a precise and equitable division, not a random or arbitrary one. The "land" (eretz - אֶרֶץ) specifically refers to the divinely promised territory of Israel, which in this prophetic context, is re-established with new, expansive boundaries and a unique distribution method. The "tribes of Israel" refers to the traditional twelve, though the specific list and order of inheritance in Ezekiel's vision (e.g., Joseph's two portions for Ephraim and Manasseh) have unique aspects compared to earlier historical distributions, underscoring the distinct nature of this future era.

Related Scriptures

This verse sets the stage for the remarkable instruction in Ezekiel 47:22-23, which states that resident aliens (strangers) are also to receive an inheritance among the tribes, a radical departure from previous land laws and a testament to the inclusive nature of God's future kingdom. This concept of inclusion is further echoed in prophetic passages like Isaiah 56:6-7 and finds its ultimate spiritual fulfillment in the New Testament concept of believers from all nations being part of God's spiritual Israel (Ephesians 2:19).

Practical Application

For believers today, Ezekiel 47:21 offers several profound insights:

  1. God's Faithfulness: It reminds us that God is faithful to all His promises, even those that seem distant or impossible. What He has declared, He will bring to pass.
  2. Divine Order: The meticulous division of the land highlights God's character as a God of order, justice, and peace. He brings structure out of chaos, and we are called to reflect this order in our lives and communities.
  3. Future Hope: While the primary fulfillment is for Israel, the vision serves as a powerful symbol of the ultimate restoration and perfect order that God will establish, whether in the millennial kingdom or in the new heavens and new earth. It encourages us to look forward to God's ultimate plan with anticipation and trust.
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.

No cross-references found for this verse.

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