Ezekiel 48:30-35 describes the gates of the city in the vision of the future temple and the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. This is commonly understood to refer to the millennial kingdom, a future 1,000-year reign of Christ on Earth, as described in Revelation 20:1-6. During this period, Christ will rule from Jerusalem, and the land and city described in Ezekiel’s vision will be part of this millennial kingdom and the new Jerusalem (Revelation 21). God will fulfill all His promises made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and David. Glory to God!

Here is Ezekiel 48:30-35:

“These are the exits of the city. On the north side, measuring four thousand five hundred cubits (the gates of the city shall be named after the tribes of Israel), the three gates northward: one gate for Reuben, one gate for Judah, and one gate for Levi; on the east side, four thousand five hundred cubits, three gates: one gate for Joseph, one gate for Benjamin, and one gate for Dan; on the south side, measuring four thousand five hundred cubits, three gates: one gate for Simeon, one gate for Issachar, and one gate for Zebulun; on the west side, four thousand five hundred cubits with their three gates: one gate for Gad, one gate for Asher, and one gate for Naphtali. All the way around shall be eighteen thousand cubits; and the name of the city from that day shall be: THE LORD IS THERE.”  

Understanding Ezekiel 48:30-35

Context: Ezekiel 40-48 contains detailed visions of a future temple, the restoration of the land, and the city. These chapters are describing the millennial temple, the third temple that will exist during the 1,000-year reign of Christ.

The Gates of the City: Ezekiel 48:30-35 describes the city gates, each named after one of the tribes of Israel. The allocation and naming reflect a restored and unified Israel. Revelation 21:12-14 – The New Jerusalem with gates named after the tribes of Israel:

• • The New Jerusalem, described as having twelve gates named after the tribes of Israel, symbolizes the eternal significance of Israel in God’s plan. This representation confirms the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant in the eternal state.

Fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant

Ezekiel 48:30-35 is the culmination and fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 12:1-3. This vision realizes the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David. God’s chosen people, the Jewish people, will be the head and not the tail. The 12 apostles will rule over the 12 tribes, and the gates of the temple are named after the 12 tribes. The whole world will be ruled by Jesus, God the Son, King of the Jews (and the whole world).

The Name of the City: The final verse states the city will be called “JEHOVAH SHAMMAH” “THE LORD IS THERE,” indicating a divine presence and fulfillment of God’s promises to dwell among His people.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 48:30-35 there is no doubt that these passages speak of the millennial temple, reflecting the future restoration of Israel and the establishment of Christ’s reign on Earth. This vision aligns with all that God promised Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and David; of a future period when God will restore Israel, fulfill His promises, and dwell among His people. This fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant underscores God’s faithfulness to His promises, bringing to completion His plan for His chosen people, the Jewish nation. The culmination of these promises will see Israel exalted, the apostles ruling over the tribes, and Jesus reigning as King over the entire world.

Additional Reading:

• Revelation 3:12
• Hebrews 12:22
• Revelation 21 (Read the entire chapter)