Definition: And they that serve the city shall serve it out of all the tribes of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:19. It's a really important and powerful statement about God's plan for His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse says that the people who govern and control a city – specifically, the wealthy and powerful ones – will be responsible for caring for and protecting all the tribes (groups) of Israel. Let's unpack it layer by layer: “Ezekiel 48:19” : This is the specific verse we’re focusing on. It’s a passage from a prophecy written by Ezekiel, a prophet during the time of King Cyrus of Persia. “And they that serve the city…” : This refers to those who live in and control wealthy cities – often powerful kingdoms or states. They're not just simple farmers; they are rulers, merchants, and leaders. “…shall serve it out of all the tribes of Israel.” : This is the crucial part. It means that these powerful people must work for the benefit of the entire Israel nation – all of their tribes, regardless of where they live. It’s a call to responsibility and stewardship. What does this mean practically? Historically, this verse speaks to a future time when: Israel will become strong: Ezekiel is predicting that Israel will grow in power and influence, eventually becoming a major force in the world. The tribes will be unified: It’s about bringing all the tribes of Israel together under one banner – a united nation. The city will be a symbol of God's kingdom: The powerful cities are seen as being built for God and His people, and therefore, they have a duty to serve them. In essence, it’s a promise that the future of Israel is tied to the strength and prosperity of its rulers. Important Note: This verse isn’t about us specifically. It's about the future destiny of Israel as a whole, and it speaks to a long-term vision of God’s plan. Do you want me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 48? Give you some context about the time Ezekiel wrote this verse?