Ezekiel 45:6

As the property of the city, you are to set aside an area 5,000 cubits wide and 25,000 cubits long, adjacent to the holy district. It will belong to the whole house of Israel.

Study Bible

As the property of the city
This phrase indicates a specific allocation of land for the city, distinct from the temple or tribal lands. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, this city property is part of a larger plan for the restored Israel. The city represents the communal and administrative center, emphasizing the importance of civic life in God's plan. This allocation reflects the organized and equitable distribution of land, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, as seen in the division of land among the tribes in the book of Joshua.

you are to set aside an area 5,000 cubits wide and 25,000 cubits long
The dimensions given here are specific and significant. A cubit is traditionally understood as the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters. This makes the area about 1.5 miles wide and 7.5 miles long. The precision of these measurements underscores the orderliness and intentionality of God's design for the land. This mirrors the detailed instructions given for the construction of the Tabernacle in Exodus, highlighting the importance of following divine instructions precisely.

adjacent to the holy district
The proximity to the holy district signifies the integration of sacred and secular life. The holy district, which includes the temple, is central to the life of Israel, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The city's closeness to this district suggests that civic life should be influenced by and centered around spiritual principles. This reflects the biblical theme of holiness permeating all aspects of life, as seen in Leviticus 19:2, where God calls His people to be holy because He is holy.

It will belong to the whole house of Israel
This phrase emphasizes unity and collective ownership among the tribes of Israel. Unlike the tribal allotments, which were specific to each tribe, this city property is for all of Israel, symbolizing national unity and shared identity. This collective ownership can be seen as a type of the unity found in the body of Christ, where believers, regardless of background, are one in Him (Galatians 3:28). The phrase also points to the fulfillment of God's promises to restore and reunite His people, as prophesied in passages like Jeremiah 31:31-34.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and a key figure in delivering God's messages to the Israelites.

2. The House of Israel
Refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen people, who are the recipients of the land allocation described in this passage.

3. The Holy District
A designated area set apart for sacred purposes, including the temple and the priests, emphasizing the centrality of worship in Israel's life.

4. The City
Represents the communal and civic life of the Israelites, highlighting the importance of community alongside worship.

5. The Land Allocation
The specific measurement of land (5,000 by 25,000 cubits) signifies God's orderly provision and care for His people, ensuring both spiritual and communal needs are met.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
God is a God of order and provision, ensuring that both spiritual and physical needs are met for His people.

Community and Worship
The allocation of land for the city and the holy district underscores the balance between communal life and worship, reminding us of the importance of both in our lives.

Inheritance and Identity
The land given to the house of Israel serves as a reminder of their identity as God's chosen people and their inheritance in Him.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
As God provides for His people, they are called to be faithful stewards of what He has given, using it for His glory and the good of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific allocation of land in Ezekiel 45:6 reflect God's character and His relationship with Israel?

2. In what ways can we see the balance between worship and community life in our own lives, as illustrated by the holy district and the city?

3. How does the concept of land as an inheritance in Ezekiel 45:6 connect to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn about stewardship from the way land is allocated to the house of Israel?

5. How do the themes of provision and order in Ezekiel 45:6 encourage us in our current circumstances and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the Year of Jubilee, which emphasizes the restoration of land and property, reflecting God's provision and justice.

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of a holy city for His people.

Joshua 13-21
Details the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, illustrating God's faithfulness in providing for His people.