Ezekiel 48:23

As for the rest of the tribes, from the east side unto the west side, Benjamin [shall have] a [portion].

As for the rest {H3499} of the tribes {H7626}, from the east {H6921} side {H6285} unto the west {H3220} side {H6285}, Benjamin {H1144} shall have a {H259} portion.

which brings us to the rest of the tribes: "'Binyamin's territory will run from east to west.

As for the rest of the tribes: Benjamin will have one portion extending from the east side to the west side.

And as for the rest of the tribes: from the east side unto the west side, Benjamin, one portion.

Context of Ezekiel 48:23

Ezekiel 48:23 is situated within the prophet Ezekiel's extensive vision of the restored Israel, which spans chapters 40-48. This particular chapter details the meticulous division of the land among the twelve tribes in a future, idealized state of the nation. Following detailed descriptions of the new temple and its ordinances (chapters 40-47), Ezekiel outlines the specific boundaries and portions each tribe will receive, emphasizing a perfect, equitable distribution. This vision contrasts sharply with the historical divisions of the land found in the Book of Joshua, suggesting a prophetic ideal rather than a literal map for historical Israel. Here, Benjamin is among the "rest of the tribes" receiving an allocated share.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Justice: The precise allocation of land to each tribe, including Benjamin in this verse, underscores God's meticulous planning and commitment to justice. Every tribe receives a portion, signifying inclusion and divine provision in the restored community.
  • Restoration and Inheritance: The overarching theme of Ezekiel's later chapters is the restoration of Israel after exile. The land division symbolizes the re-establishment of their inheritance and a secure future under God's covenant. This reflects God's faithfulness to His promises of a complete and lasting return to the land, often linked to the concept of a new covenant with His people.
  • Completeness and Unity: The detailed assignment of land to all tribes, "from the east side unto the west side," indicates a complete and unified nation, dwelling securely within its God-given boundaries. Benjamin, though historically a smaller tribe, receives its full, undivided portion, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's provision.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "from the east side unto the west side" (מִקֶּדֶם אֶל־יָם - miqqedem el-yam) literally means "from the front (east) to the sea (west)." This is a standard Hebrew idiom used to describe the full breadth or width of the land, stretching from the eastern border to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. In the context of tribal allotments, it emphasizes that each portion is a full strip of land running across the entire width of the territory, ensuring a comprehensive and complete inheritance for every tribe.

Practical Application and Significance

While the vision of Ezekiel 48 is highly symbolic and debated regarding its literal fulfillment, its enduring significance lies in its depiction of God's ultimate plan for His people. For believers today, Ezekiel 48:23 and the surrounding passages offer:

  • Assurance of God's Faithfulness: It reinforces the truth that God keeps His promises, even when circumstances seem dire (as they were for the exiled Israelites). Just as Benjamin was assured a portion, God provides for His people and fulfills His redemptive plans.
  • Hope for Future Restoration: The vision points to a future era of perfect order, peace, and divine presence, often understood in Christian theology as pointing towards the new heavens and new earth described in Revelation 21, where God dwells with His people in perfect harmony.
  • Emphasis on Belonging and Inheritance: Each tribe, regardless of size or historical prominence, is given its place and its inheritance. This reminds us of God's inclusive nature and that all who are in Christ have an inheritance and a secure place in His eternal kingdom, as taught in Ephesians 1:11.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Joshua 18:21

    Now the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin according to their families were Jericho, and Bethhoglah, and the valley of Keziz,

  • Joshua 18:28

    And Zelah, Eleph, and Jebusi, which [is] Jerusalem, Gibeath, [and] Kirjath; fourteen cities with their villages. This [is] the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.

  • Ezekiel 48:1

    ¶ 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.

  • Ezekiel 48:7

    And by the border of Reuben, from the east side unto the west side, a [portion for] Judah.

  • Genesis 35:16

    ¶ And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel travailed, and she had hard labour.

  • Genesis 35:19

    And Rachel died, and was buried in the way to Ephrath, which [is] Bethlehem.

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