1 Chronicles 6:63

Unto the sons of Merari [were given] by lot, throughout their families, out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

Unto the sons {H1121} of Merari {H4847} were given by lot {H1486}, throughout their families {H4940}, out of the tribe {H4294} of Reuben {H7205}, and out of the tribe {H4294} of Gad {H1410}, and out of the tribe {H4294} of Zebulun {H2074}, twelve {H8147}{H6240} cities {H5892}.

To the descendants of M'rari were assigned by lot, clan by clan, twelve cities from the tribes of Re'uven, Gad and Z'vulun.

The Merarites, according to their families, were allotted twelve cities from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun.

Unto the sons of Merari were given by lot, according to their families, out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:63 (KJV)

Unto the sons of Merari [were given] by lot, throughout their families, out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

Context

This verse is part of a lengthy section in 1 Chronicles chapter 6 that details the lineage, roles, and dwelling places of the Levites. After listing the descendants of Levi's sons (Gershon, Kohath, and Merari) and the lineage of the high priests, the chapter focuses on the cities assigned to the various Levite families throughout Israelite territory. This specific verse addresses the allocation of cities to the descendants of Merari, one of Levi's three sons, outlining which tribes provided their cities and the method of distribution.

Key Themes

  • Divine Provision and Order: The distribution of cities "by lot" signifies a process believed to be guided by God, ensuring each Levite family received their designated inheritance and place of service, fulfilling God's instructions.
  • Tribal Responsibility: This verse highlights the obligation of specific tribes (Reuben, Gad, Zebulun) to provide cities for the Levites within their territories, demonstrating inter-tribal cooperation and support for those dedicated to priestly service.
  • Fulfillment of the Law: The assignment of cities to the Levites was a direct fulfillment of the commands given in the Law of Moses regarding the provision for the tribe of Levi, who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes.
  • The Merarites' Portion: It specifically identifies the Merarite branch of the Levites and the twelve cities they received from these three tribes.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "by lot" translates the Hebrew word goral (Χ’ΦΌΧ•ΦΉΧ¨ΦΈΧœ), which refers to the casting of lots. In ancient Israel, this was often seen as a way to discern God's will or allow for an impartial, divinely-guided distribution, as referenced in Proverbs 16:33, "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD."

Commentary

1 Chronicles 6:63 concisely states the allocation of twelve cities to the Merarite families among the Levites. Unlike the other tribes who received contiguous land inheritances, the Levites were scattered throughout Israel, living in cities provided by the other tribes. This verse specifies that the descendants of Merari received their portion from the tribes of Reuben, Gad (tribes east of the Jordan), and Zebulun (a tribe in the north). The use of the lot ensured that this distribution was seen as equitable and divinely determined, avoiding potential disputes and confirming God's hand in providing for His servants. This detail aligns with the account found in the book of Joshua.

Cross-References

The historical account of the distribution of cities to the Levites is primarily found in Joshua chapter 21. Joshua 21:7 and verses 34-40 specifically list the cities given to the Merarites by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun, confirming the number twelve mentioned here. The original command for the other tribes to provide cities for the Levites is given in Numbers 35:1-8.

Reflection

This verse, though a detail within a long genealogy and list, speaks to God's meticulous planning and faithfulness in providing for those set apart for His service. It reminds us that God has a place and provision for everyone within His plan, and that the community (the other tribes) had a role to play in supporting those who served in sacred capacities. It underscores the principle that those who minister should be supported by the community they serve, a theme echoed in the New Testament regarding those who preach the gospel.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 21:7

    The children of Merari by their families [had] out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

  • Joshua 21:34

    And unto the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with her suburbs, and Kartah with her suburbs,

  • Joshua 21:40

    So all the cities for the children of Merari by their families, which were remaining of the families of the Levites, were [by] their lot twelve cities.

  • Genesis 46:11

    And the sons of Levi; Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.

  • Numbers 3:20

    And the sons of Merari by their families; Mahli, and Mushi. These [are] the families of the Levites according to the house of their fathers.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:77

    Unto the rest of the children of Merari [were given] out of the tribe of Zebulun, Rimmon with her suburbs, Tabor with her suburbs:

  • 1 Chronicles 6:81

    And Heshbon with her suburbs, and Jazer with her suburbs.
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