King James Version
What Does Ezekiel 48:3 Mean?
“And by the border of Asher, from the east side even unto the west side, a portion for Naphtali.”
Context
1
Now these are the names of the tribes. From the north end to the coast of the way of Hethlon, as one goeth to Hamath, Hazarenan, the border of Damascus northward, to the coast of Hamath; for these are his sides east and west; a portion for Dan. a portion: Heb. one portion
2
And by the border of Dan, from the east side unto the west side, a portion for Asher.
3
And by the border of Asher, from the east side even unto the west side, a portion for Naphtali.
4
And by the border of Naphtali, from the east side unto the west side, a portion for Manasseh.
5
And by the border of Manasseh, from the east side unto the west side, a portion for Ephraim.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**8. usury--**literally, "biting." The law forbade the Jew to take interest from brethren but permitted him to do so from a foreigner (Ex 22:25; De 23:19, 20; Ne 5:7; Psa 15:5). The letter of the law was restricted to the Jewish polity, and is not binding now; and indeed the principle of taking interest was even then sanctioned, by its being allowed in the case of a foreigner. The spirit of the law still binds us, that we are not to take advantage of our neighbor's necessities to enrich ourselves, but be satisfied with moderate, or even no, interest, in the case of the needy.
**increase--**in the case of other kinds of wealth; as "usury" refers to money (Le 25:36).
**withdrawn ... hand, &c.--**Where he has the opportunity and might find a plausible plea for promoting his own gain at the cost of a wrong to his neighbor, he keeps back his hand from what selfishness prompts.
**judgment--**justice.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ezekiel 48:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Ezekiel 48:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge