“A Holy Place is to be dedicated from this area in the form of a square measuring 500 by 500 cubits, with a 50 cubit buffer zone surrounding it.” (Ezekiel 45:2 ISV)
The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North Korea and South Korea is 4 km wide and 250 km long. Established in 1953, it has served as a buffer zone between these two countries which share similar ancestry but are now different culturally and philosophically. The DMZ itself has very little civilian activity; thus, it has become a haven for wildlife. With its forests and migratory birds, it can look deceptively peaceful. However, it is still an active war zone with hidden landmines. South Korea offers guided tours to the restricted parts of its side of the DMZ, but it warns everyone to not cross the boundary lines for any reason.
Buffer zones reduce the potential for conflict. In every area of life-- relationships, routines, finances, work, family, homes, private, social, spiritual, or worldly--transitional spaces mitigate friction. Boundaries are harder to manage without a certain amount of margin for the unavoidable trespasses. For example, I have a certain amount of time scheduled for prayer every morning. I leave a bit of a buffer zone around my expectations, knowing that on some days, things are going to come up. This reduces my angst and helps me set apart some time from inevitable daily demands. Similarly, I establish a DMZ around relationships that have a history of antagonism. Even when things look amicable, there are hidden landmines waiting to explode. I know, from past experience, that it is wise not to cross this buffer zone for any reason. Demarcating a wide area around boundaries protects what is important. It cushions against competing interests. It shields what is sacred from invasion.
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