Ezekiel 48:34

At the west side four thousand and five hundred, with their three gates; one gate of Gad, one gate of Asher, one gate of Naphtali.

Ezekiel 48:34 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ezekiel contains visions and prophecies given to the prophet during the Babylonian captivity. Ezekiel 48 describes the future division of the land of Israel among the twelve tribes. In verse 34, the focus is on the west side of the city, which measures four thousand and five hundred units (likely cubits or reeds) and has three gates named after the tribes of Gad, Asher, and Naphtali.

Meaning

The verse lists the three gates on the west side of the city, each bearing the name of a tribe of Israel. The order in which the tribes are listed is not necessarily indicative of their importance. The mention of these tribes signifies their place in the future division of the land and the inclusion of all twelve tribes in the restored city.

Each tribe had its own history and characteristics. The tribe of Gad was traditionally associated with strength and warriors. They settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River in the traditional allotment, but in Ezekiel’s vision, their portion is within the western territory. The tribe of Asher was known for abundance of olive oil and agricultural blessings. The tribe of Naphtali was located in the northern part of Israel, known for skilled warriors and often associated with courage and victory.

Biblical connections

The city in Ezekiel’s vision is foursquare, with each side measuring 4,500 units and containing three gates, for a total of twelve gates named after the twelve tribes of Israel. This foursquare shape is directly connected to the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:16, which is also described as foursquare. The placement of gates on all four sides symbolizes that people will come from all directions to the city, emphasizing the gathering of God’s people from every direction.

Application

The division of the land described in Ezekiel 48:34 is a future prophecy concerning the millennial kingdom, the thousand-year reign of Christ on earth mentioned in Revelation 20:4-6. During this time, Israel will be restored, and the twelve tribes will have their allotted portions in the Promised Land. This verse, along with the preceding verses, emphasizes the restoration of the land and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the nation of Israel. It assures believers that God is faithful to His covenant and will bring about the complete restoration of His people.

Reflection

Ezekiel 48:34 portrays the gates of the city on the west side named after the tribes of Gad, Asher, and Naphtali in the future millennial kingdom. The vision represents a future hope of restoration and God’s presence with His people, as the following verse (Ezekiel 48:35) states, “The LORD is there.” This reminds us that God’s ultimate purpose is to dwell with His people, and His promises are certain.