What happensPermalink
God assigns land for the sanctuary, priests, Levites, city, and prince. The prince receives defined territory and must end violence, oppression, and unlawful seizure of land. God requires honest weights and measures and contributions from the people to support communal worship. The prince must provide sacrifices, including a Passover sin offering for himself and all the people. Ezekiel also receives instructions for cleansing the sanctuary and observing the appointed festivals.
Why it mattersPermalink
The order of the restored temple extends into government, economy, and calendar. The prince’s bounded estate restrains royal abuses, while honest measurements protect ordinary people. He supports the people’s worship and remains accountable within it. The allocation of land and regulation of offerings place political power under God’s authority, continuing the concern for justice that shaped the shepherd oracle in chapter 34.
Key versePermalink
Thus says the Lord God: “Enough, O princes of Israel! Put away violence and oppression, and execute justice and righteousness. Cease your evictions of my people, declares the Lord God.”