And by the border of Zebulun, from the east side unto the west side, Gad a [portion].
And by the border {H1366} of Zebulun {H2074}, from the east {H6921} side {H6285} unto the west {H3220} side {H6285}, Gad {H1410} a {H259} portion.
"'Gad's territory will run alongside the territory of Z'vulun from east to west.
And Gad will have one portion bordering the territory of Zebulun from east to west.
And by the border of Zebulun, from the east side unto the west side, Gad, one portion.
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Joshua 13:24
And Moses gave [inheritance] unto the tribe of Gad, [even] unto the children of Gad according to their families. -
Joshua 13:28
This [is] the inheritance of the children of Gad after their families, the cities, and their villages. -
Genesis 30:10
And Zilpah Leah's maid bare Jacob a son. -
Genesis 30:11
And Leah said, A troop cometh: and she called his name Gad.
Ezekiel 48:27 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's grand vision concerning the future restoration and reorganization of Israel, specifically detailing the division of the land among the twelve tribes. This verse specifies the portion allotted to the tribe of Gad, located just south of Zebulun.
Context
Chapters 40-48 of Ezekiel describe an elaborate vision of a new temple, a renewed priesthood, and a re-divided land for Israel. This vision follows the devastating exile of the Jewish people to Babylon, offering a profound message of hope and restoration. Ezekiel 48 meticulously lists the boundaries and portions for each of the twelve tribes, arranged in parallel strips running from the eastern to the western borders of the land. This particular verse, Ezekiel 48:27, places Gad's inheritance directly adjacent to Zebulun's, emphasizing a systematic and divinely ordered distribution.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The word translated "portion" in the KJV (Hebrew: חֶבֶל, chevel) literally means "cord" or "line," and by extension, "measured portion" or "allotment." It suggests that the land was precisely measured and distributed, not arbitrarily, but according to a divine blueprint. This emphasizes the accuracy and divine authority behind the division, ensuring each tribe received its rightful and specific inheritance.
Practical Application
While Ezekiel's vision has specific implications for ancient Israel and future prophecy, it also offers timeless principles. It reminds us of God's incredible attention to detail and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Just as He meticulously planned an inheritance for each tribe, so too does He have a perfect plan for His people today. The concept of an "allotment" can also encourage believers to trust in God's provision and purpose for their lives, knowing that He oversees every detail and will ultimately fulfill His grand redemptive plan, leading to a future where all things are made new and perfectly ordered.