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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:63 details the specific allocation of twelve cities to the Merarite families, a branch of the Levites, through a divinely guided process of casting lots. These cities were provided from the tribal territories of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun, illustrating God's meticulous provision for His consecrated servants who had no territorial inheritance of their own, and highlighting the inter-tribal responsibility to support those dedicated to the sacred work of the Tabernacle and later, the Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a lengthy and detailed genealogical and organizational chapter in 1 Chronicles. Chapter 6 is primarily dedicated to the tribe of Levi, outlining the lineage of the high priests (1 Chronicles 6:1-15), followed by the descendants of Levi's three sons—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—and their respective roles and dwelling places. Verses 54-81 meticulously list the cities assigned to the various Levitical families across Israel. Verse 63 specifically focuses on the Merarites, completing the account of their allotted cities, following the Kohathites and Gershonites. This section underscores the Chronicler's interest in the proper order and functioning of the worship system, emphasizing the divinely ordained roles and provisions for those serving in the sanctuary.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Historically, the Levites were set apart by God for service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, and unlike the other tribes, they did not receive a contiguous territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. Instead, they were to be supported by the other tribes through tithes and the provision of designated cities. The distribution of these cities, as described here and more extensively in the book of Joshua, occurred after the conquest of Canaan. The phrase "by lot" (Hebrew: _goral_) was a common method in ancient Israel for making important decisions or distributing land, believed to reveal God's will and ensure impartiality. The tribes of Reuben and Gad were located east of the Jordan River, while Zebulun was in the northern part of Canaan, west of the Jordan, indicating a widespread distribution of Merarite families across Israelite territory.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several key themes prevalent in Chronicles and the broader Old Testament narrative. It highlights **Divine Provision and Order**, demonstrating God's faithfulness in providing for His chosen servants and His meticulous organization of Israel's tribal and religious life. The distribution "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 found in [Numbers 35](/numbers/35 "Numbers 35 - Cities for the Levites"). Furthermore, it emphasizes **Tribal Responsibility** and **Interdependence**, as specific tribes (Reuben, Gad, Zebulun) were obligated to provide cities for the Levites within their territories, demonstrating communal support for those dedicated to sacred service. This allocation also represents the **Fulfillment of the Law**, specifically the Mosaic commands regarding the provision for the tribe of Levi, who were to live among the other tribes to facilitate their ministry and teaching. The detailed account in [Joshua 21](/joshua/21 "Joshua 21 - Cities for the Levites") corroborates the numbers and tribes mentioned here, reinforcing the historical accuracy and divine orchestration of the settlement.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lot (Hebrew, _goral'_):** This term refers to the casting of lots, a practice in ancient Israel often employed to discern God's will or to ensure an impartial distribution or decision. In this context, it underscores the belief that the allocation of cities to the Levites was not arbitrary or based on human negotiation, but rather divinely orchestrated. The use of lots removed human bias and affirmed God's sovereign hand in establishing the order and provision for His people, as articulated in [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "Proverbs 16:33 - The Lot is Cast into the Lap").
* **Merari (Hebrew, _m'rari'_):** Merari was the third son of Levi (along with Gershon and Kohath). The Merarites were a significant branch of the Levites, distinct in their specific duties related to the Tabernacle. Their primary responsibility involved the heavier components of the sanctuary, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases, which required substantial strength and organization for transport. Their specific cities were strategically located to support their widespread duties.
* **Cities (Hebrew, _'arim'_):** Unlike the other tribes who received contiguous land inheritances, the Levites were given 48 cities scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes (Numbers 35:7). These cities served as their dwelling places and centers from which they could perform their duties, teach the Law, and minister to the people. The provision of these cities ensured that the Levites, though without a land inheritance, were fully supported and integrated into the national life of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Unto the sons of Merari [were given] by lot":** This clause identifies the recipients—the descendants of Merari—and the method of distribution. The phrase "by lot" emphasizes that the allocation was not a human decision but a divinely guided process, ensuring fairness and God's sovereign hand in providing for His servants.
* **"throughout their families":** This indicates that the distribution was comprehensive and systematic, ensuring that all the clans and families within the Merarite branch received their designated portion of cities. It speaks to the meticulous organization and thoroughness of the divine plan.
* **"out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun":** These three specific tribes are identified as the providers of the cities for the Merarites. Reuben and Gad were Transjordanian tribes, while Zebulun was in the northern part of Canaan. This highlights the inter-tribal responsibility and cooperation required to support the Levites, demonstrating a unified national effort in fulfilling God's commands.
* **"twelve cities":** This precise number confirms the total count of cities allocated to the Merarite families from the aforementioned tribes. This detail aligns with the more extensive list found in [Joshua 21:34-40](/joshua/21-34 "Joshua 21:34-40 - Merarite Cities"), underscoring the fulfillment of God's command for the Levites' provision.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in this verse and the surrounding passage. **Enumeration** is prominent, as the text meticulously lists the tribes and the number of cities, emphasizing precision and divine order. This detailed listing serves to confirm the fulfillment of God's commands given in the Torah. The mention of "by lot" functions as a **Theological Marker**, signaling divine orchestration and sovereignty over the distribution, reinforcing the idea that God is actively involved in the details of His people's lives and their inheritance. Furthermore, the passage contributes to a **Fulfillment Narrative**, demonstrating how the commands given in earlier books (like Numbers and Joshua) were faithfully carried out in the history of Israel, thereby validating God's word and His covenant faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly administrative detail in 1 Chronicles 6:63 carries profound theological weight. It powerfully illustrates God's meticulous care and faithfulness in providing for those consecrated to His service. The scattering of the Levites among the tribes, rather than giving them a consolidated territory, ensured their constant presence as spiritual guides, teachers of the Law, and administrators of worship throughout Israel. This arrangement fostered interdependence, reminding all tribes of their shared responsibility in supporting the religious life of the nation. The "by lot" distribution underscores God's sovereign hand in establishing order and equity, ensuring that His plan unfolded precisely as intended, free from human manipulation. This divine provision for the Levites serves as a powerful testament to God's commitment to sustaining those who dedicate their lives to Him and His kingdom.

* [Joshua 21:7](/joshua/21-7 "Joshua 21:7 - Merarite Cities") and [Joshua 21:34-40](/joshua/21-34 "Joshua 21:34-40 - Specific Cities for Merarites") provide the detailed list of the twelve cities given to the Merarites from Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun, confirming the account in 1 Chronicles.
* [Numbers 35:1-8](/numbers/35-1 "Numbers 35:1-8 - Command for Levitical Cities") outlines the original divine command for the Israelites to provide cities for the Levites, along with their pasturelands.
* [Deuteronomy 18:1-2](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1-2 - The Levites' Inheritance") clarifies that the Levites would have no inheritance among Israel, but "the Lord is their inheritance," emphasizing their unique reliance on God and the support of the community.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail of 1 Chronicles 6:63, though seemingly mundane, offers rich insights for contemporary reflection. It reminds us that God is a God of order and provision, even in the smallest details of His grand plan. Just as He meticulously provided for the Levites, ensuring their sustenance and placement for service, so too does He care for and provide for His people today, especially those called to full-time ministry. This verse challenges us to consider our role in supporting those who dedicate their lives to proclaiming the Gospel and serving the church. The principle of communal responsibility for ministry, evident in the tribes providing for the Levites, remains vital. It calls believers to active participation in sustaining the work of God's kingdom through their resources, prayers, and practical support, enabling ministers to focus on their sacred calling without undue worldly anxieties. It also encourages us to trust in God's sovereign hand, knowing that He orchestrates our lives and provides our "place" of service and sustenance, whether it is a specific calling or our daily walk.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "by lot" inform our understanding of God's sovereignty in our lives and the decisions we face?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as a faith community, actively support those dedicated to full-time ministry today, echoing the ancient tribes' provision for the Levites?**
* **How does recognizing God's meticulous provision for the Levites encourage our trust in His faithfulness to provide for our own needs and callings?**

### FAQ
**Why did the Levites not receive a tribal land inheritance like the other tribes?**

Answer: The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance because they were set apart for exclusive service to the Lord. Their inheritance was the Lord Himself, and their role was to minister in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, teach God's Law, and serve as spiritual guides for the nation. This unique status meant they were to be supported by the other tribes through tithes and the provision of cities, ensuring they could dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties without the burden of agricultural or territorial management. This is clearly stated in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is Your Inheritance") and [Deuteronomy 18:1-2](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1-2 - The Levites' Inheritance").

**What was the significance of distributing the cities "by lot"?**

Answer: The distribution of cities "by lot" was a common practice in ancient Israel believed to be a means of discerning God's will. It removed human bias and ensured an impartial and equitable allocation. For the Levites' cities, it underscored that their placement and provision were divinely ordained, not simply a matter of human negotiation or convenience. This method highlighted God's sovereignty and meticulous care in establishing the order and provision for His people, as seen in [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "Proverbs 16:33 - The Lot is Cast into the Lap").

**Were the Merarites' duties different from other Levite families?**

Answer: Yes, the Merarites had distinct duties within the Levitical service. While the Kohathites were responsible for the sacred furnishings of the Tabernacle (like the Ark of the Covenant and the altar) and the Gershonites for the coverings and curtains, the Merarites were tasked with transporting the heavier, structural components of the Tabernacle. This included the frames, bars, pillars, and bases, as detailed in [Numbers 3:36-37](/numbers/3-36 "Numbers 3:36-37 - Merarite Duties"). Their assigned cities were strategically located to facilitate these specific responsibilities.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous provision for the Merarite Levites in 1 Chronicles 6:63, and for all Levites, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Levites, set apart for service and without a worldly inheritance, foreshadowed Christ, who, though Creator and King, "had nowhere to lay his head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")). He is the ultimate High Priest, fulfilling and surpassing the Levitical priesthood ([Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - The Superior Priesthood of Melchizedek and Christ")), who perfectly mediates between God and humanity. The Levites' "inheritance" being the Lord points to the New Covenant reality where believers, through Christ, inherit eternal life and spiritual blessings, with God Himself as their ultimate portion ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Furthermore, the communal support for the Levites prefigures the Church's calling to support those in ministry today, empowered by Christ's commission to "go and make disciples" ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). In Christ, we find not just a physical dwelling, but a spiritual home and rest, as He promises, "In my Father's house are many rooms... I am going there to prepare a place for you" ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2 "John 14:2-3 - My Father's House")). He is the ultimate provision, the true "place" where God's people dwell and serve, fulfilling the scattered cities of refuge and service in His own person.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

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.