Ezekiel 48:2

Asher will have one portion bordering the territory of Dan from east to west.

Study Bible

Asher will have one portion
Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, was originally allotted land in the northern part of Canaan. This allocation in Ezekiel's vision signifies a future restoration and reorganization of the tribes in the land. The tribe of Asher is often associated with prosperity and abundance, as seen in Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:20, which speaks of Asher's food being rich. This portion reflects God's continued promise and provision for His people.

bordering the territory of Dan
Dan, another tribe of Israel, was initially given land in the northern coastal region. In Ezekiel's vision, Dan is positioned at the northernmost part of the land, indicating a shift from its original location. The proximity of Asher to Dan in this vision suggests a harmonious coexistence among the tribes in the future. Historically, Dan struggled with idolatry, as seen in Judges 18, but this new arrangement symbolizes a redeemed and unified Israel.

from east to west
The phrase "from east to west" indicates the breadth of the land allocation, suggesting a complete and balanced distribution. This east-to-west orientation is consistent with the layout of the tribal lands in Ezekiel's vision, emphasizing order and symmetry. It reflects the comprehensive nature of God's plan for His people, ensuring that each tribe receives its rightful inheritance. This also echoes the promise of land given to Abraham in Genesis 15:18, which spans from the river of Egypt to the Euphrates, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asher
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Asher, the eighth son of Jacob and Zilpah. Known for its rich land and abundance of olive oil.

2. Dan
Another tribe of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and Bilhah. Historically, the tribe of Dan struggled with idolatry and was one of the northernmost tribes.

3. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile who received visions from God, including the division of the land among the tribes of Israel.

4. The Land of Israel
The promised land given to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In Ezekiel's vision, it is divided among the tribes in a future restoration.

5. The Vision of Restoration
Ezekiel 48 is part of a larger vision of the restoration of Israel, including the rebuilding of the temple and the reallocation of the land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains committed to His covenant promises, as seen in the future restoration of the land.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the tribes received a physical inheritance, believers today have a spiritual inheritance in Christ that should be valued and pursued.

Unity and Diversity in God's Plan
The division of the land among the tribes highlights the diversity within the unity of God's people, reminding us of the importance of each member in the body of Christ.

The Consequences of Idolatry
The history of the tribe of Dan serves as a warning against idolatry and the need for faithfulness to God.

Hope in Restoration
Ezekiel's vision offers hope for restoration and renewal, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate plan for redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to Asher and Dan in Ezekiel 48:2 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises to the patriarchs?

2. In what ways can the spiritual inheritance of believers today be compared to the physical inheritance of the tribes of Israel?

3. Considering the history of the tribe of Dan, what lessons can we learn about the dangers of idolatry and the importance of remaining faithful to God?

4. How does the division of land among the tribes in Ezekiel's vision illustrate the concept of unity and diversity within the body of Christ?

5. What aspects of Ezekiel's vision of restoration can provide hope and encouragement for believers facing challenges today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, including Asher and Dan, provide insight into the characteristics and future of these tribes.

Joshua 19
The original allotment of land to the tribes of Israel, offering a historical context for Ezekiel's vision of the future division.

Revelation 7
The listing of the tribes of Israel in the sealing of the 144,000, which includes Asher but notably omits Dan, reflecting on the spiritual significance of these tribes.