Ezekiel 48:1

KJV

¶ 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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now these are the names {H8034} of the tribes {H7626}. From the north {H6828} end {H7097} to the coast {H3027} of the way {H1870} of Hethlon {H2855}, as one goeth {H935} to Hamath {H2574}, Hazarenan {H2704}, the border {H1366} of Damascus {H1834} northward {H6828}, to the coast {H3027} of Hamath {H2574}; for these are his sides {H6285} east {H6921} and west {H3220}; a {H259} portion for Dan {H1835}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Following is the list of tribes: "'This is Dan's territory: from the north end, through Hetlon to the entrance of Hamat, Hatzar-'Einan (at the border of Dammesek), northward, next to Hamat; and they will have their sides east and west.

Berean Standard Bible

“Now these are the names of the tribes: At the northern frontier, Dan will have one portion bordering the road of Hethlon to Lebo-hamath and running on to Hazar-enan on the border of Damascus with Hamath to the north, and extending from the east side to the west side.

American Standard Version

Now these are the names of the tribes: From the north end, beside the way of Hethlon to the entrance of Hamath, Hazar-enan at the border of Damascus, northward beside Hamath (and they shall have their sides east and west), Dan, one portion.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 48:1 inaugurates the detailed, visionary allocation of land to the twelve tribes of Israel in the restored eschatological temple-city. As the final chapter of Ezekiel's prophecy, this verse sets the stage for a meticulously ordered distribution, beginning with the northernmost boundary and specifically naming Dan as the first tribe to receive its inheritance, thereby underscoring divine precision, comprehensive restoration, and the secure establishment of God's people within their divinely ordained territory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 48:1 marks the beginning of the climactic section of Ezekiel's prophecy, specifically chapters 40-48, which detail the visionary temple, its services, the holy district, and the re-division of the land. Following the elaborate descriptions of the new temple's architecture, its priesthood, and the sacred ordinances in [Ezekiel 40-46](/ezekiel/40-46 "Ezekiel 40-46 - The Temple Vision"), and the life-giving river flowing from the temple in [Ezekiel 47](/ezekiel/47 "Ezekiel 47 - The River from the Temple"), chapter 48 provides the geographical and tribal framework for this restored existence. This verse, therefore, transitions from the sacred space to the sacred land, outlining the precise boundaries and tribal allotments, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's future restoration plan for Israel. It serves as the grand finale, bringing the entire vision to a concrete, albeit symbolic, conclusion regarding the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ezekiel prophesied during the Babylonian exile (c. 593-571 BC), a period of profound national despair and displacement for the Israelites. The destruction of Jerusalem and its temple, and the loss of their land, challenged their understanding of God's covenant promises. In this context, Ezekiel's vision of a new temple and a re-divided land was not a literal blueprint for the immediate post-exilic return, but a powerful message of hope, divine faithfulness, and future restoration far grander than anything experienced before. The meticulous detail in land division would have resonated deeply with a people whose tribal inheritances had been fragmented and lost, recalling the original land distribution under Joshua (e.g., [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13-19 "Joshua 13-19 - Division of the Land")). The mention of specific northern geographical markers like Hethlon, Hamath, Hazarenan, and Damascus points to a divinely secured and expansive territory, potentially extending beyond historical Israelite borders, signifying a secure and prosperous future under God's rule.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Ezekiel and the broader prophetic literature. It highlights **Divine Order and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous planning and control over the future, ensuring every detail of the restored kingdom is precisely laid out. The re-establishment of tribal inheritances underscores the theme of **Restoration and Covenant Faithfulness**, affirming God's unwavering commitment to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning the land and their descendants (e.g., [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). Furthermore, the inclusion and prominent mention of Dan, a tribe often associated with idolatry and migration (e.g., [Judges 18](/judges/18 "Judges 18 - Dan's Migration and Idolatry")), emphasizes **Total Inclusivity and Reconciliation** within the restored community, signaling a complete and unblemished renewal for all twelve tribes. The specific, expansive geographical borders also symbolize a future of **Security and Abundance**, where God's people will dwell safely and prosperously under His direct governance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **names (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** This word, derived from a primitive root suggesting definite and conspicuous position, signifies more than a mere appellation. It implies honor, authority, and character. In Ezekiel 48:1, "names of the tribes" emphasizes the distinct identity, significance, and divinely recognized status of each tribal entity within the collective, highlighting God's personal attention to each part of His restored people.
* **border (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwl'_):** Properly meaning "a cord" (as twisted), this term extends to signify a boundary or the territory enclosed by such a boundary. Its use here for "the border of Damascus northward" highlights the precise and defined limits of the land allocation. It underscores the divine establishment of secure and unchangeable boundaries for the tribes, ensuring their specific inheritance and protection within the restored kingdom.
* **Dan (Hebrew, _Dân'_):** Meaning "judge," Dan is one of the sons of Jacob and the tribe descended from him. Its mention here as the first tribe to receive a portion is highly significant. Historically, Dan was known for its geographical displacement and spiritual straying (e.g., [Judges 18](/judges/18 "Judges 18 - Dan's Migration and Idolatry")). Its prominent placement at the northernmost border in this visionary allocation signifies a complete and inclusive restoration, demonstrating that even those who were historically problematic or marginalized are fully integrated into God's perfected future.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now these are the names of the tribes."**: This opening clause immediately sets the stage for a detailed enumeration, signaling a systematic and divinely ordered distribution of the land. It emphasizes the individual identity and significance of each of the twelve tribes within the larger restored nation.
* **"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;"**: This lengthy clause meticulously defines the northern boundary of the entire restored territory. Hethlon, Hamath, Hazarenan, and Damascus were well-known geographical markers to the north of historical Israel. The repetition of "coast of Hamath" and "northward" reinforces the precision and extent of this divinely established border, indicating a vast and secure domain for the reunited tribes, extending well into what was traditionally Syrian territory.
* **"for these are his sides east and west; a portion for Dan."**: This final segment clarifies that the described northern line forms the east-west extent of the territory. The specific mention of "a portion for Dan" immediately after defining the northernmost boundary is highly significant. It indicates that Dan, traditionally the northernmost tribe in the historical land, is allocated the first and northernmost strip of land in this ideal, restored geography, emphasizing its full and prominent inclusion in God's comprehensive plan of restoration.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 48:1 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Enumeration** is immediately evident with the phrase "Now these are the names of the tribes," signaling a precise and systematic listing that follows. This meticulous detailing of geographical points (Hethlon, Hamath, Hazarenan, Damascus) and tribal allocations (Dan) creates a powerful sense of **Precision and Order**, underscoring God's absolute control and careful planning for the future. The extensive and specific geographical references also serve as a form of **Symbolic Geography**, where the described borders, potentially larger than historical Israel, symbolize an expansive, secure, and divinely protected realm for the restored nation. The specific mention of Dan, a tribe with a complex history of apostasy and migration, at the very beginning of the land distribution, functions as **Inclusivity and Redemption**, highlighting God's comprehensive grace in restoring all His people, even those who had strayed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 48:1, by meticulously outlining the future land division, powerfully underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises concerning the land and His people. It reveals a God of order and precision, whose plans for restoration are not vague but intricately detailed, ensuring that every aspect of His people's inheritance is secured. This vision provides profound hope, demonstrating that even after severe judgment and dispersion, God's ultimate purpose is to bring His people into a state of complete and secure dwelling in His presence, fulfilling ancient promises in a glorious, renewed reality. It speaks to the divine commitment to a future where every part of His chosen people finds its rightful place and inheritance, free from past failures and external threats.

* [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land")
* [Joshua 19:40-48](/joshua/19-40 "Joshua 19:40-48 - The Inheritance of the Tribe of Dan")
* [Isaiah 60:21](/isaiah/60-21 "Isaiah 60:21 - Righteousness and Inheritance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 48:1 offers a profound source of spiritual encouragement and practical application for believers today. In a world often characterized by chaos, uncertainty, and a sense of displacement, this verse reminds us of God's meticulous order and unwavering faithfulness. Just as God had a precise plan for the restoration and re-inheritance of each tribe, He has a detailed and perfect plan for our lives and for the ultimate fulfillment of His kingdom purposes. This vision encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when our circumstances seem fragmented or our future unclear. It assures us that God sees and values every individual within His spiritual household, and that in Christ, we have a secure and eternal inheritance that cannot be lost or diminished. It prompts us to consider how we, as part of God's people, can live in a way that reflects His order and anticipates the full realization of His kingdom, finding our true place and purpose in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's land division in Ezekiel 48:1 speak to His character and His approach to fulfilling His promises?**
* **In what ways does the inclusion of Dan, a historically problematic tribe, offer hope and assurance regarding God's inclusive grace for all who belong to Him?**
* **How can we, in our own lives, trust in God's divine order and detailed plan, even when our circumstances feel chaotic or uncertain?**

### FAQ
**Why is the tribe of Dan mentioned first in this land division, given its historical challenges?**

Answer: The prominent mention of Dan as the first tribe to receive a portion in Ezekiel 48:1 is highly significant and symbolic. Historically, the tribe of Dan faced numerous challenges, including difficulty securing their initial inheritance ([Judges 1:34](/judges/1-34 "Judges 1:34 - Dan's Struggle for Inheritance")), a major migration to the far north ([Judges 18](/judges/18 "Judges 18 - Dan's Migration and Idolatry")), and a notorious association with idolatry (setting up a graven image and establishing a false priesthood). Its placement at the very beginning of the land distribution in Ezekiel's ideal vision signifies a complete and comprehensive restoration of all twelve tribes, emphasizing God's grace and the perfect, unblemished nature of the future kingdom. It suggests that in God's ultimate plan, there is no exclusion based on past failures; all who are part of His covenant people will be fully included and receive their inheritance. This highlights the theme of divine reconciliation and the perfection of God's future work.

**Does this land division in Ezekiel 48 refer to a literal future re-division of the land of Israel?**

Answer: The interpretation of Ezekiel's temple and land vision (chapters 40-48) varies among scholars. Some interpret it as a literal blueprint for a future, millennial kingdom where the land will be physically re-divided among the tribes of a restored Israel. They point to the precise measurements and geographical details as evidence for a literal fulfillment. Others view the vision primarily as symbolic, representing the spiritual realities of God's presence, order, and blessing in the eschatological age, whether in the church or the new heavens and new earth. They argue that the sheer perfection and scale of the vision, including the river from the temple and the allocation of land to tribes that no longer exist in a distinct form, suggest a spiritual or idealized fulfillment rather than a strictly literal one. Most agree that it speaks to God's faithfulness to His promises and the ultimate establishment of His kingdom, characterized by divine order, secure inheritance, and God's dwelling among His people. The detailed nature of [Ezekiel 48](/ezekiel/48 "Ezekiel 48 - The Final Land Division") certainly emphasizes the reality and tangibility of God's future work, whether literally or symbolically.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 48:1, with its meticulous description of land division and tribal inheritance, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His new covenant work. While the Old Testament vision speaks of a physical land and tribal boundaries, Christ establishes a spiritual kingdom where the true inheritance is not geographical but spiritual and eternal. The secure and perfectly ordered land for the tribes foreshadows the secure and eternal dwelling place prepared for believers in Christ, who are now the true spiritual Israel, a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - The Identity of Believers")). The inclusion of Dan, a tribe with a history of apostasy, beautifully prefigures Christ's redemptive work, where all who come to Him, regardless of their past sins or failures, are fully reconciled and given an inheritance "among those who are sanctified by faith in Me" ([Acts 26:18](/acts/26-18 "Acts 26:18 - Inheritance in Christ")). Through Christ, the boundaries of God's people are expanded beyond ethnic Israel to encompass all who believe, forming one body in Him ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). The "portion for Dan" becomes a "portion for all" who are in Christ, securing for them an eternal inheritance that is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). Thus, the precise order and secure inheritance envisioned in Ezekiel find their perfect, spiritual reality in the person and work of Jesus, the true King and architect of the eternal kingdom.

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 47:15

And this [shall be] the border of the land toward the north side, from the great sea, the way of Hethlon, as men go to Zedad;

Ezekiel 47:17

And the border from the sea shall be Hazarenan, the border of Damascus, and the north northward, and the border of Hamath. And [this is] the north side.

Joshua 19:40

¶ [And] the seventh lot came out for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families.

Joshua 19:47

And the coast of the children of Dan went out [too little] for them: therefore the children of Dan went up to fight against Leshem, and took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and possessed it, and dwelt therein, and called Leshem, Dan, after the name of Dan their father.

Numbers 1:5

And these [are] the names of the men that shall stand with you: of [the tribe of] Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur.

Numbers 1:15

Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.

Genesis 30:3

And she said, Behold my maid Bilhah, go in unto her; and she shall bear upon my knees, that I may also have children by her.