


Ezekiel 47:21
Bible Versions
So shall ye divide this land unto you according to the tribes of Israel.
"'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.
No cross-references found for this verse.
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
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: