The New City of God according to Ezekiel (Ez 48:30-35)

Andrzej Sebastian Jasiński

Uniwersytet Opolski
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1950-6346

Abstract

In the spirit of Judaic-Christian dialogue in this article I deal with the text Ez 48:30-35, which is very important for both communities of believers.

The last vision of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 40–48) became a source of inspiration for Judaism and Christianity. However, there is no agreement in the interpretation of this prophetic announcement of the arrival of a new temple and a new city. The temple (+ city) was presented in the light of rabbinic Judaism, the Qumran writings and Ezekiel himself.

In the exegetical part, the text of Ez 48:30-35 was thoroughly examined. At the end of this article theological conclusions were presented in six points: Praise of Yahweh; Heritage of Patriarchs; The Power of Yahweh; The Presence of Yahweh; The Hope of Israel; Christian Reception.

The Book of Ezekiel remains one of the most mysterious writings of the Bible. His theological potential is not always appreciated. This also applies to the issue of interreligious dialogue. Ezekiel was the herald of the holiness of the name of Yahweh and the knowledge of God. God is the Lord of all creation, present in the midst of his people. These truths are the core of the creed of both Jews and Christians. Their mutual contemplation allows them to be closer together. In the end, all believers will lead to a city called: Yahweh (is) there (Ez, 45:35).

Keywords:

Ezekiel, temple, city, dialogue, Judaism, Christianity