Ezekiel 48:35 - Meaning and Interpretation

Bible Verse: Ezekiel 48:35

The verse states: "The circumference of the city shall be eighteen thousand cubits; and the name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there." This concluding remark in the prophetic book of Ezekiel emphasizes both the geographical and the theological significance of the restored Jerusalem in the eschatological future.

Overall Significance

The final chapter of Ezekiel not only delineates the physical layout of the future city but also serves a profound spiritual purpose. Ezekiel highlights that the presence of God (YHWH) will dwell among His people. This denotes a restoration of the covenant relationship that was broken due to sin.

Contextual Background

The backdrop of this vision includes Israel's exile and the destruction of Jerusalem. The prophet Ezekiel, called to be a watchman for God's people, portrays a vivid picture of hope and restoration amidst despair. The words "The Lord is there" signify that God's presence will define this future city, contrasting the previous experiences of desolation and abandonment.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of God's presence as the ultimate fulfillment of the city. He argues that the name of the city signifies not just a physical place but the spiritual reality of God's everlasting fellowship with His people.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out the measurement of the city, connecting it with the covenantal promise God made with His people. The dimensions reflect divine order, and the name is an assurance of God's constancy and presence among His followers.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke's commentary stresses that the presence of the Lord is paramount. He notes that the historical context leads to the prophetic hope that the divine fellowship will be restored, representing full reconciliation between God and His people.

Related Cross-References

• Revelation 21:3: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them...'"
• Psalms 46:4: "There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells."
• Isaiah 65:19: "I will rejoice in Jerusalem and take delight in my people; the sound of weeping and of crying will be heard in it no more."
• Ezekiel 37:26-27: "I will make a covenant of peace with them... I will be their God, and they will be my people."
• 2 Corinthians 6:16: "For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, 'I will live with them and walk among them...'"
• Matthew 18:20: "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
• John 14:23: "We will come to them and make our home with them."

Understanding through Cross-Referencing

The verse serves as a focal point for a deeper understanding of God's promise throughout Scripture. Ezekiel's vision invites us to explore the connections between different parts of the Bible, revealing the consistent theme of God's desire to dwell with His people.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To further explore the themes of Ezekiel 48:35, various tools can be used:

• Bible Concordance
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide
• Cross-Reference Bible Study Materials

Cross-Referencing Bible Study Methods

By engaging in cross-referencing Bible study methods, one can identify how themes evolve from the Old Testament to the New Testament, revealing God's plan of salvation and His abiding presence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ezekiel 48:35 encapsulates the hope of divine presence, serving as a promise of restoration. As we connect this verse with others, we can appreciate the comprehensive narrative of God's relationship with humanity throughout the Bible.