Abstract: It is often argued that the book of Ezekiel presents hierocracy as the ideal constitutional model for the restored post-exilic Jewish community. However, the pictures of the restored community, in Chs. 34, 37, and 40–8, all envisage a reinstated monarchic figure. It is true that in the Temple vision, in Chs. 40–8, the status of the monarchic figure is downplayed by comparison with pre-exilic times, but he nevertheless appears as a recognizable authority figure. By contrast, there is no mention of a high priest anywhere in the book. Ezekiel therefore appears to be advocating a modified version of the previous monarchic order, rather than hierocracy.

Keywords: constitution of post-exilic community, book of Ezekiel, Ezekiel 34, Ezekiel 37, Ezekiel 40–8,