Ezekiel 48:35

The perimeter of the city will be 18,000 cubits, and from that day on the name of the city will be: THE LORD IS THERE."

Study Bible

The perimeter of the city will be 18,000 cubits
The measurement of 18,000 cubits for the city's perimeter indicates a significant size, suggesting a city of considerable importance and grandeur. In ancient times, a cubit was approximately 18 inches, making the perimeter about 6 miles. This measurement reflects the completeness and perfection often associated with the number 18 in biblical numerology. The city described is part of Ezekiel's vision of a restored Israel, symbolizing God's ultimate plan for His people. The detailed measurements emphasize the order and precision of God's design, reminiscent of the specific instructions given for the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple (Exodus 25-27, 1 Kings 6).

and from that day on the name of the city will be:
The renaming of the city signifies a new identity and purpose. In biblical tradition, names hold deep significance, often reflecting character or destiny. The act of naming or renaming by God indicates a transformation or fulfillment of His promises. This echoes other instances in Scripture where God changes names to reflect His covenant, such as Abram to Abraham (Genesis 17:5) and Jacob to Israel (Genesis 32:28). The renaming marks a new era of divine presence and blessing.

THE LORD IS THERE.
The name "THE LORD IS THERE" (Yahweh Shammah) encapsulates the essence of God's promise to dwell among His people. This divine presence is a central theme throughout the Bible, from the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8) to the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:8) and the Temple (1 Kings 8:10-11). It foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment in the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with humanity eternally (Revelation 21:3). This name signifies God's faithfulness and the restoration of the relationship between God and His people, a theme fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is called "Immanuel," meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). The presence of the Lord brings peace, security, and blessing, underscoring the hope of eternal communion with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who received visions and messages during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's word to the Israelites.

2. The City
Refers to the future city of Jerusalem, symbolizing the restored presence of God among His people.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

4. The Name The LORD Is There (Yahweh Shammah)
A prophetic declaration of God's abiding presence in the city, signifying hope and restoration.

5. The Perimeter (18,000 cubits)
Represents the dimensions of the city, emphasizing its completeness and divine order.

Teaching Points

God's Presence as Assurance
The name "The LORD Is There" assures believers of God's constant presence, providing comfort and strength in all circumstances.

Hope in Restoration
Just as the city symbolizes restoration, believers can have hope in God's power to restore and renew their lives.

Divine Order and Completeness
The specific dimensions of the city reflect God's perfect plan and order, encouraging trust in His divine purposes.

Covenant Faithfulness
God's presence in the city underscores His faithfulness to His covenant promises, reminding believers of His unchanging nature.

Living as God's Dwelling
As believers, we are called to be living temples of God's presence, reflecting His glory in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the name "The LORD Is There" impact your understanding of God's presence in your life today?

2. In what ways can the promise of God's presence bring comfort during times of uncertainty or difficulty?

3. How does the vision of the future city in Ezekiel 48:35 connect with the description of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21?

4. What practical steps can you take to cultivate an awareness of God's presence in your daily routine?

5. How does understanding God's covenant faithfulness in Ezekiel 48:35 encourage you to trust His promises in other areas of your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 21
Describes the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully realized among His people, echoing the promise of "The LORD Is There."

Exodus 40
The glory of the LORD filling the tabernacle, illustrating God's desire to dwell among His people.

John 1:14
The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, fulfilling the promise of God's presence.

Psalm 46
God as a refuge and strength, a present help, reinforcing the theme of His presence.

Matthew 28:20
Jesus' promise to be with His disciples always, connecting to the assurance of God's presence.