Definition: And by the border of Asher, from the east side even unto the west side, a [portion for] Naphtali.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:3. It’s a really important part of understanding God's plan for Israel and its future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it means that the land west of the Jordan River (which is currently occupied by Lebanon) will be largely controlled by the people of Naphtali. Let's unpack that a little further: “Ezekiel 48”: This refers to a prophecy written by Ezekiel, a Jewish prophet who lived around 185 BC. It’s part of a larger vision he had about God’s plan for the nations of the world. “And by the border…” – This indicates a geographical boundary. “…from the east side even unto the west side…” – This is where it gets interesting. The verse describes a portion – a specific area – that will be controlled by Naphtali. It’s not saying they’ll completely dominate, but rather, they'll have a significant presence and influence. So, what does this tell us? It speaks to the long-term future of Israel. Ezekiel is telling us that God intends for Naphtali to become a powerful nation in the region west of the Jordan River. This isn’t about immediate conquest; it's about establishing a lasting presence and eventually dominating the area. Think of it like this: It’s a promise of future expansion for the Israelites, with Naphtali playing a key role in shaping the landscape and history of that region. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain any part of it further or perhaps delve into why this verse is significant? For example, I could talk about: The context of Ezekiel’s prophecy Why Naphtali was chosen as a future power What the verse implies about God’s plan for Israel

Definition: And these [are] the goings out of the city on the north side, four thousand and five hundred measures.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:30. It’s a really significant passage about rebuilding the city of Jerusalem and the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that four thousand and five hundred measures (which is a lot of water!) of water are being taken out of the northern part of Jerusalem to be used for building new cities and infrastructure. Let's unpack that a bit more: “Ezekiel 48”: This refers to a prophecy given by Ezekiel, a prophet in ancient Israel. Ezekiel was looking at the future and trying to understand how God’s plan would unfold. “And these [are]…” – This is a key phrase that emphasizes this is a specific action . It's not just any water being taken; it's a deliberate, planned move. “Four thousand and five hundred measures”: This is the important part! A “measure” in ancient times was like a gallon or a bucket of water. So, four thousand and five hundred measures means a huge amount of water – enough to fill many large cisterns and wells. It’s a massive quantity. What does this all tell us about the future? This verse is part of a larger picture in the Bible that emphasizes: Rebuilding Jerusalem: The primary focus is on restoring Jerusalem, which was largely destroyed by the Babylonian Empire. Ezekiel's prophecy says that through rebuilding and expanding, God will ultimately bring the entire land back under his control. The Future of Israel: It suggests a long-term plan for the future of the Jewish people – their inheritance and prosperity in the region. In short, it’s a message about massive construction and a shift in power as God prepares for the restoration of his kingdom. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about its significance within the larger Bible story?

Definition: And the gates of the city [shall be] after the names of the tribes of Israel: three gates northward; one gate of Reuben, one gate of Judah, one gate of Levi.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:31. It's a pretty significant passage about God’s plan for the future and how He will establish His people. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying: “After a long time, when Israel is fully established and powerful, God intends to create a new, fortified region – a city – that will be completely protected by the tribes of Israel.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the gates of the city” : This refers to a large city, likely in the region around Jerusalem. It’s the central hub of Israel. “…shall be” : This is a future tense – it means this will happen eventually . “after the names of the tribes of Israel” : This is the key part! The tribes are the divisions within Israel – Judah, Benjamin, Levi, Dan, Ephraim, and Manasseh. God is saying that after these tribes have become strong and significant, they will be the protectors of this new city. “three gates northward; one gate of Reuben, one gate of Judah, one gate of Levi” : This describes the layout of the city: Three Gates Northward: This suggests that the city will be strategically located in a northern area, perhaps near the mountains or a key geographical point. Reuben, Judah, and Levi: These are three specific tribes within Israel – they’re known for their distinct roles and characteristics. The verse is saying God intends to establish these tribes as protectors of this new city. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse speaks to the idea that God’s plan is about establishing His people and their kingdom through strength, protection, and leadership. It's about a future where Israel will become a powerful nation, and God will give them a place of security and prominence. In short, it’s a promise of a future where Israel will be powerfully protected and established as the dominant force in the region. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Ezekiel 48? Discuss the significance of these tribes within Israel?

Definition: And at the east side four thousand and five hundred: and three gates; and one gate of Joseph, one gate of Benjamin, one gate of Dan.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 48:32. It’s a really significant verse about God's plan for the future of Israel! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says God is going to expand and strengthen the land of Israel eastward, creating four distinct groups of people and territories. Let’s unpack that a little more: “And at the east side four thousand and five hundred” : This refers to a large area of land stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the border of Judah. It's a massive expanse! “and three gates; and one gate of Joseph, one gate of Benjamin, one gate of Dan.” This is where it gets interesting. Think of these as different regions or "gates" that will be formed within this area: Joseph’s Gate: This represents the northern part of Israel, known for its strong traditions and leadership. Benjamin’s Gate: This represents the central region of Israel, a place of wealth and agriculture. It's where the majority of the population would live. Dan’s Gate: This represents the southern part of Israel, which is meant to be a strong military and agricultural stronghold. So, what does it all mean? Ezekiel was writing this verse as part of a larger prophecy about God's plan for the future of his people. It signifies that God intends to expand and strengthen Israel eastward, making it a powerful and prosperous nation. It’s a key step in God’s plan to ultimately bring all nations under his rule – including Judah, and eventually, the whole region around Israel. Think of it like this: God is building up a strong, expanded kingdom for his people, spreading across the land. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of each gate? Discuss the symbolism behind the numbers (4,000, 500)?

Definition: And at the south side four thousand and five hundred measures: and three gates; one gate of Simeon, one gate of Issachar, one gate of Zebulun.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezekiel 48:33. It’s a pretty fascinating detail about God’s plan for Israel! Here's the simple explanation: Basically, it means: “Ezekiel describes a large area in southern Israel that will be divided into four distinct regions, each with its own unique identity and purpose, all connected to the land of Judah.” Let’s unpack it further: “And at the south side four thousand and five hundred measures…” – This refers to a vast area stretching southward from Jerusalem. “Measures” is a biblical term for a large amount. So, we're talking about a huge space. “…and three gates…” – This suggests there will be three main entry points or areas within this southern region. “One gate of Simeon, one gate of Issachar, one gate of Zebulun.” - These are the names of three specific cities in southern Israel that God intends to be part of this larger area. What does it mean practically? Ezekiel is describing a strategic division of land. The idea is that these four regions – Simeon, Issachar, Zebulun, and the areas surrounding them – will become extremely prosperous and powerful because they are connected to Judah. It’s about establishing a strong, unified kingdom in that area. In short, it's a roadmap for God’s future plan for Israel to expand its territory and become a major force. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these regions in more detail? Talk about the significance of this verse within the larger context of Ezekiel’s prophecy?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:34. It’s a really significant passage about God’s plan for the future and the rise of Israel! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a massive military force being assembled to conquer the lands west of Jerusalem. Let's unpack it further: “At the west side four thousand and five hundred…” This refers to a large group of people – probably Israelites – who are being organized and sent westward. “…with three gates…” This means they’re going to be forming a powerful army, with three distinct groups: Gad: Located in the north. Asher: Situated in the east. Naphtali: In the south. So, it's like a massive, well-organized military force moving westward towards the borders of Israel. Why is this important? Ezekiel was writing this verse as part of a prophecy about the future. He was essentially saying that God intends to establish his kingdom and bring all the tribes of Israel into a unified nation across the west side of the land, ultimately conquering and occupying all of the lands west of Jerusalem. It’s a key part of God's plan for ultimate restoration and dominion. In short, it describes a significant military buildup heading westward to establish future Israel. Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail or perhaps delve into its historical context?

Definition: [It was] round about eighteen thousand [measures]: and the name of the city from [that] day [shall be], The LORD [is] there.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 48:35. It's a really significant statement about God’s plan for the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a massive construction project – a city – that God intends to build for His people. It’s saying that God is going to create a huge, complete city, and he's going to give it a name that reflects his power and glory. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “It was round about eighteen thousand measures…” – This is a really long way! “Measures” in ancient times were used to measure things like land or buildings. So, this means the city would be huge , covering a vast area. Think of it as a massive, sprawling settlement. “…and the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there.” – This is the crucial part. It's saying that God has already declared and decided to give this city a specific name: “The Lord is there.” It’s not just a casual decision; it’s a declaration of his presence and power. What does this mean in terms of God’s plan? God’s Sovereignty: This verse emphasizes that God is in control and has complete authority over everything. He's planning this city, and he chooses its name. A Permanent City: It signifies a long-term commitment – a place where God’s people will dwell forever. It’s not just a temporary settlement; it’s a permanent home for His kingdom. God’s Presence: The act of naming the city "The Lord is there" highlights God's presence and that He is intimately involved in this creation. In short, Ezekiel 48:35 tells us that God intends to build a huge, complete city – a testament to his power and a place where His people will forever dwell. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes (like the creation of the world)? Give you some context about the time Ezekiel wrote this verse?