Ezekiel 48:6

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

And by the border {H1366} of Ephraim {H669}, from the east {H6921} side {H6285} even unto the west {H3220} side {H6285}, a {H259} portion for Reuben {H7205}.

"'Re'uven's territory will run alongside the territory of Efrayim from east to west.

Reuben will have one portion bordering the territory of Ephraim from east to west.

And by the border of Ephraim, from the east side even unto the west side, Reuben, one portion.

Commentary

Ezekiel 48:6 is part of the prophet Ezekiel's detailed vision concerning the future division of the land of Israel among the twelve tribes, following the elaborate descriptions of the new temple and its ordinances in previous chapters. This particular verse specifies the geographical placement of the tribe of Reuben's inheritance within this future, divinely ordered landscape.

Context of Ezekiel 48:6

Chapter 48 concludes Ezekiel's extensive prophecies (chapters 40-48) describing a restored Israel, a new temple, and a reorganized society. This vision, given during the Babylonian exile, offered hope and a blueprint for a future ideal state under God's direct rule. The meticulous division of the land underscores God's sovereignty and His precise plans for His people. Each tribe is allocated a strip of land running from the eastern to the western border, symbolizing a complete and equal inheritance for all, a theme broadly introduced in Ezekiel 47:13-14.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Meticulous Planning: The precise geographical details, like "from the east side even unto the west side," highlight God's perfect order and His attention to every detail in His restorative plans. This is not a haphazard arrangement but a divinely ordained structure for the future.
  • Reuben's Inheritance: The verse explicitly assigns a portion to Reuben, whose territory is situated directly south of Ephraim's. This is significant because Reuben, as Jacob's firstborn, had historically lost his birthright due to moral transgressions (see Genesis 49:3-4). His inclusion here, with a clearly defined inheritance, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His grace, ensuring that all tribes receive their place in the ultimate restoration, even those who stumbled.
  • Future Restoration of Israel: This passage, along with the entire latter part of Ezekiel, paints a picture of a glorious future for Israel, where the land is re-divided and inhabited according to God's perfect design. It signifies a complete spiritual and physical renewal for the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's addition of "[portion for]" in "a [portion for] Reuben" clarifies the Hebrew, which more literally just states "and by the border of Ephraim... Reuben." The implied meaning is clear: the land described belongs to Reuben. The directness of the Hebrew emphasizes the definitive nature of this allocation, leaving no ambiguity about the tribal ownership in this prophetic vision.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 48:6, within its broader context, offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • God's Faithfulness: Even when human beings falter or fail, God remains faithful to His promises and purposes. Reuben's inclusion in this future inheritance is a powerful reminder that God does not forget His people or His covenant, even across generations and despite past failures.
  • Hope in Divine Order: In times of chaos or uncertainty, this vision reminds us that God has a precise and perfect plan for His creation and His people. His ultimate design is one of order, peace, and justice, providing a hopeful outlook for the future.
  • Inclusion and Belonging: The meticulous division ensures that every tribe, every part of God's people, has a place and an inheritance. This speaks to the value God places on each individual and group within His greater family, ensuring no one is left out of His ultimate blessing and restoration, reflecting a principle seen in the unity of the body of Christ.
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Cross-References

  • Joshua 13:15

    And Moses gave unto the tribe of the children of Reuben [inheritance] according to their families.

  • Joshua 13:21

    And all the cities of the plain, and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, which reigned in Heshbon, whom Moses smote with the princes of Midian, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, [which were] dukes of Sihon, dwelling in the country.

  • Genesis 49:3

    Reuben, thou [art] my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power:

  • Genesis 49:4

    Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou [it]: he went up to my couch.

  • Genesis 29:32

    And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me.