And the residue in length over against the oblation of the holy portion shall be ten thousand eastward, and ten thousand westward: and it shall be over against the oblation of the holy portion; and the increase thereof shall be for food unto them that serve the city.
EZEKIEL 48:18KJVWhat does Ezekiel 48:18 mean?
Ezekiel 48:18 describes a section of land set aside next to the holy offering, measuring ten thousand cubits both to the east and to the west, with its produce meant to provide food for those who work in service to the city. This verse is part of a detailed plan for dividing land among the people after their return from exile.
In this chapter, the prophet Ezekiel is relaying God’s instructions to the Israelites about how the land should be distributed when they return to their homeland. The focus here is on practical arrangements: land is not just for worship or leaders, but also for the everyday needs of those who maintain the city. The verse shows careful planning to ensure that those serving the community are provided for.
The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 48:18
- "residue" (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means what is left over or the remainder. Here, it refers to the land left after the special holy portion is set aside, emphasizing that every part of the land has a purpose.
- "oblation" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah): This means an offering or contribution, often something set apart for God. The verse uses this word to describe the special holy section, highlighting its sacred use.
- "increase" (תְּבוּאָה, tevuah): This word means produce or yield, usually of crops. It shows that the land’s main value here is its ability to feed those serving the city, not just its location or size.
- "serve" (עָבַד, avad): This means to work or serve, and in this context, it refers to those who perform duties for the city, not just religious leaders but all who keep the city running.
Why Ezekiel 48:18 matters
- Ezekiel 48:18 clarifies that the land distribution after exile was meant to be practical and fair, ensuring that those who serve the community are supported with food from the land.
- The verse shows that the holy and the ordinary are connected: the land near the sacred offering is also used to meet everyday needs, not just set apart for ritual.
- This arrangement ties into the larger vision of Ezekiel 40–48, where God’s restored people live in a well-ordered, just society with clear roles and provisions for everyone.