1 Chronicles 6:67

KJV

And they gave unto them, [of] the cities of refuge, Shechem in mount Ephraim with her suburbs; [they gave] also Gezer with her suburbs,

KJV (with Strong's)

And they gave {H5414} unto them, of the cities {H5892} of refuge {H4733}, Shechem {H7927} in mount {H2022} Ephraim {H669} with her suburbs {H4054}; they gave also Gezer {H1507} with her suburbs {H4054},

Complete Jewish Bible

They gave them the city of refuge Sh'khem in the hills of Efrayim with the surrounding open land, also Gezer with the surrounding open land,

Berean Standard Bible

They were given Shechem (a city of refuge) with its pasturelands in the hill country of Ephraim, and Gezer,

American Standard Version

And they gave unto them the cities of refuge, Shechem in the hill-country of Ephraim with its suburbs; Gezer also with its suburbs,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 6:67 meticulously records the allocation of Shechem, notably designated as a city of refuge, and Gezer, along with their essential surrounding pasturelands, to the Kohathite Levites, specifically the descendants of Aaron. This verse forms an integral part of the Chronicler's comprehensive genealogical and administrative record, underscoring God's precise and faithful provision for the tribe of Levi, who were set apart for sacred service, and highlighting the divine establishment of places of sanctuary and justice within the structured framework of ancient Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within 1 Chronicles chapter 6, a chapter primarily devoted to the extensive genealogies of the Levites and, more specifically, the detailed enumeration of the cities assigned to them throughout Israel. The Chronicler's intent in this elaborate listing, which spans from verses 39 to 81, is twofold: first, to affirm the legitimate lineage of the priesthood and the Levites, crucial for the post-exilic community; and second, to demonstrate God's unwavering faithfulness in providing for the Levites, who, unlike the other tribes, did not receive a territorial inheritance, as explicitly stated in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - God is the Inheritance of the Levites"). Verse 67 specifically details cities given to the sons of Aaron, a prominent branch of the Kohathite Levites, thereby emphasizing the precise organization and distribution of both land and personnel within the theocratic nation. This meticulous record-keeping underscores the Chronicler's overarching theme of divine order, covenant fidelity, and the importance of adhering to God's commands for the proper functioning of the community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The systematic allocation of cities to the Levites was a foundational element of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land, directly commanded by God through Moses (e.g., [Numbers 35:1-8](/numbers/35-1-8 "Numbers 35:1-8 - The Levitical Cities and Cities of Refuge")). The mention of Shechem as a "city of refuge" holds profound historical and legal significance. These six divinely appointed cities (three on each side of the Jordan) served as sanctuaries for individuals who had unintentionally caused another's death, offering protection from the "avenger of blood" until a fair judicial process could determine their guilt or innocence (see [Deuteronomy 19:2-7](/deuteronomy/19-2-7 "Deuteronomy 19:2-7 - Purpose and Function of Cities of Refuge")). Shechem, located in the strategically central hill country of Ephraim, was a site steeped in Israelite history, witnessing pivotal moments such as Abraham's first altar in Canaan ([Genesis 12:6](/genesis/12-6 "Genesis 12:6 - Abraham's First Altar at Shechem")) and Joshua's renewal of the covenant with all Israel ([Joshua 24:1-28](/joshua/24-1-28 "Joshua 24:1-28 - Joshua's Farewell Address and Covenant Renewal")). Its designation as a city of refuge thus underscored its accessibility and historical importance. Gezer, situated in the lowlands between Judah and Ephraim, was also a strategically vital city, frequently contested due to its prime location, and its allocation to the Levites further illustrates the careful, strategic distribution of these sacred personnel throughout the land to ensure their availability for religious, judicial, and educational duties across all tribal territories.
* **Key Themes:** The detailed allocation of cities to the Levites, as exemplified in 1 Chronicles 6:67, powerfully articulates God's **divine provision and order**. Despite not receiving a tribal land inheritance, the Levites were meticulously provided for, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and His precise organization of the nation for its spiritual well-being. The designation of Shechem as a **city of refuge** profoundly highlights God's attributes of both **justice and mercy**. This system provided a legal framework for due process, preventing arbitrary blood feuds while ensuring accountability for the sanctity of human life. It reflects a divine concern for both the fair administration of law and the opportunity for redemption, as detailed in passages like [Numbers 35:6](/numbers/35-6 "Numbers 35:6 - Cities of Refuge Explained") and [Joshua 20:7-8](/joshua/20-7-8 "Joshua 20:7-8 - Listing of the Cities of Refuge"). Furthermore, by residing in cities scattered throughout Israel, the Levites, who bore the responsibility for worship, teaching, and the administration of God's law, were strategically positioned for **Levitical responsibility** to serve and instruct the entire nation, ensuring spiritual guidance and adherence to the covenant were accessible across all tribal territories.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **gave (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** This primitive root (H5414) is used with the greatest latitude of application, encompassing actions like to put, make, appoint, bestow, bring forth, deliver, grant, lay, offer, and set. In 1 Chronicles 6:67, it signifies the deliberate and authoritative act of distributing or assigning the cities and their suburbs to the Levites, reflecting the fulfillment of God's command and the organized settlement of the land.
* **cities of refuge (Hebrew, _‘îyr miqlâṭ'_):** This compound term (H5892 for city, H4733 for refuge) refers to specific urban centers designated as asylums. These cities provided sanctuary for individuals who had unintentionally caused another's death, protecting them from the immediate retribution of the "avenger of blood" until a fair trial could be conducted. This system was a unique expression of God's justice, balancing the sanctity of human life with the need for mercy and due process, thereby preventing arbitrary vengeance.
* **suburbs (Hebrew, _migrâsh'_):** This term (H4054) denotes the open pasturelands or common lands surrounding the Levitical cities. These areas were specifically allocated for the Levites' cattle and flocks, ensuring their economic sustenance and livelihood. This detail underscores the comprehensive nature of God's provision for the Levites, not only with dwelling places but also with the necessary means to support themselves, as outlined in [Numbers 35:2-5](/numbers/35-2-5 "Numbers 35:2-5 - Levitical City Layout and Provision").

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they gave unto them":** This phrase refers to the collective action of the Israelites, led by figures like Joshua and Eleazar the priest, in fulfilling the divine mandate to distribute the land and its cities among the tribes, including the Levites. It signifies the orderly and obedient execution of God's instructions for the settlement of the Promised Land.
* **"[of] the cities of refuge, Shechem in mount Ephraim with her suburbs;":** This clause specifies Shechem as one of the cities allocated to the Kohathite Levites, a branch of the sons of Aaron. The parenthetical "of" clarifies that Shechem was *among* the designated cities of refuge, highlighting its dual function as both a Levitical dwelling and a place of asylum. Its location "in mount Ephraim" grounds it geographically, emphasizing its strategic centrality and accessibility within the land. The inclusion of "with her suburbs" indicates the provision of essential pasturelands for the Levites' sustenance and economic well-being.
* **"[they gave] also Gezer with her suburbs,":** This parallel clause identifies Gezer as another city assigned to the same Levitical family. The implied repetition of "they gave" (common in KJV ellipsis) reinforces the systematic and thorough nature of the distribution process. Like Shechem, Gezer came with its surrounding pasturelands, ensuring the Levites' comprehensive provision and their ability to fulfill their sacred duties while residing among the other tribes.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's meticulous record-keeping in 1 Chronicles 6:67 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Cataloguing** or **Enumeration**, as the verse is part of an extensive and precise listing of Levitical cities. This detailed inventory serves to emphasize the exactitude of God's commands and their faithful execution by Israel, reinforcing themes of divine order and covenant fulfillment. The **Repetition** of the implied verb "they gave" (or similar phrases in the broader context of the chapter) reinforces the systematic and comprehensive nature of the land distribution. Furthermore, the mention of "cities of refuge" carries profound **Symbolism**, representing divine justice, mercy, and the provision of sanctuary. These cities were not merely geographical locations but tangible expressions of God's character and legal framework for a holy nation, foreshadowing a deeper, spiritual refuge. The precise geographical details also lend an air of **Verisimilitude**, grounding the theological truths in historical and physical reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 6:67, while seemingly a dry administrative detail, is profoundly rich with theological significance. It powerfully underscores God's meticulous care and unwavering faithfulness in providing for His people, particularly for those set apart for sacred service. The Levites, who had no tribal inheritance, were nevertheless fully provided for through the precise allocation of cities and their surrounding lands, demonstrating that God's economy is one of abundance, order, and covenant fidelity. The inclusion of Shechem as a city of refuge further highlights God's character as both just and merciful, establishing a system that upheld the sanctity of human life while offering a pathway for redemption and due process for the unintentional offender. This divine provision and the establishment of refuge points to a God who is intimately involved in the practical details of His people's lives, ensuring their well-being, the proper functioning of His covenant community, and the accessibility of His law and presence throughout the land.

* [Numbers 35:11-15](/numbers/35-11-15 "Numbers 35:11-15 - Law of the Cities of Refuge")
* [Deuteronomy 19:4-6](/deuteronomy/19-4-6 "Deuteronomy 19:4-6 - How the Cities of Refuge Functioned")
* [Joshua 20:7-8](/joshua/20-7-8 "Joshua 20:7-8 - The Designated Cities of Refuge")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Levitical cities, including Shechem and Gezer, serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous care and unwavering faithfulness towards His people. Just as He precisely provided for the Levites, ensuring their sustenance and strategic placement for ministry throughout Israel, so too does He orchestrate the details of our lives, often in ways that transcend conventional expectations. This verse encourages us to cultivate a deep trust in God's ordered plan and His faithful provision, even when our path seems unconventional or appears to lack a traditional "inheritance." Moreover, the profound concept of the "city of refuge" speaks powerfully to our spiritual need for sanctuary. In a world fraught with accusation, the weight of sin, and the consequences of our actions, God has provided an ultimate refuge, a place of safety, justice, and mercy. This ancient provision calls us to consider where we seek our ultimate refuge and whether we truly lean into God's boundless mercy and perfect justice in our lives. It invites us to rest in the unwavering assurance that God is both our faithful provider and our secure protector, offering an eternal sanctuary for our souls.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's provision for the Levites in this verse encourage your trust in His provision for your own life and calling?**
* **In what ways do you experience God as your "refuge" in times of trouble, accusation, or spiritual need?**
* **What practical steps can you take to align your life more closely with God's divine order and trust in His precise plan for you?**
* **How does the concept of God's justice and mercy, as seen in the cities of refuge, shape your understanding of His character and your response to Him?**

### FAQ
**Why are these specific cities listed in 1 Chronicles 6:67?**

Answer: 1 Chronicles 6:67 specifically lists Shechem and Gezer because they were among the cities designated for the Kohathite branch of the Levites, particularly the sons of Aaron, as part of the broader distribution of land in Israel. This detailed listing is integral to the Chronicler's purpose of meticulously documenting the fulfillment of God's commands regarding the tribal inheritances and the comprehensive provision for the Levites, who, unlike the other tribes, did not receive a territorial land inheritance (see [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - God is the Inheritance of the Levites")). Shechem also held the important distinction of being one of the six "cities of refuge."

**What was the purpose of the "cities of refuge" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "cities of refuge" were a unique divine institution established by God through Moses (e.g., [Numbers 35:6](/numbers/35-6 "Numbers 35:6 - Cities of Refuge Explained") and [Deuteronomy 19:2](/deuteronomy/19-2 "Deuteronomy 19:2 - Purpose of Cities of Refuge")). Their primary purpose was to provide a sanctuary for individuals who had accidentally killed someone, protecting them from immediate retaliation by the "avenger of blood" until a fair trial could be held before the community elders. This system ensured that justice was administered properly, preventing arbitrary blood feuds while also offering mercy and due process to those who committed unintentional manslaughter, thereby upholding the sanctity of life.

**How does the provision of cities for the Levites relate to their not having a tribal inheritance?**

Answer: The Levites were uniquely set apart for sacred service to God, responsible for the tabernacle/temple duties, teaching the Law, and administering justice throughout Israel. Because of their consecrated role, they did not receive a territorial land inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, God declared Himself to be their inheritance ([Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - God is the Inheritance of the Levites")). However, God also commanded that forty-eight cities, along with their surrounding pasturelands, be given to them, strategically scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes. This ensured their physical provision and strategically positioned them to serve, instruct, and minister to the entire nation, demonstrating God's faithfulness and meticulous care for His chosen servants and for the spiritual well-being of all Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Old Testament cities of refuge, such as Shechem mentioned in 1 Chronicles 6:67, serve as profound types and shadows, pointing to the ultimate spiritual refuge found in Jesus Christ. Just as the unintentional manslayer fled to a city of refuge for safety from the avenger of blood and the threat of death, so too do we, as sinners, flee to Christ for refuge from the just condemnation of the Law and the spiritual death that sin brings. He is our true and eternal sanctuary, the one who takes away the sin of the world and offers complete forgiveness, protection, and reconciliation with God. [Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - God's Unchanging Promise and Refuge") speaks powerfully of those who have "fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us" in Christ. He is not merely a temporary shelter but an eternal dwelling place, offering not just protection from judgment but also full redemption and new life. In Christ, there is "therefore now no condemnation" for those who are in Him ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ")), for He has borne the full penalty for our sins on the cross ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - Christ Bore Our Sins")). He is the ultimate fulfillment of God's provision for both justice and mercy, our ever-present help and fortress, a secure and living hope for all who trust in Him ([Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")).

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 21:21

For they gave them Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim, [to be] a city of refuge for the slayer; and Gezer with her suburbs,

Joshua 16:10

And they drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute.

Genesis 33:18

And Jacob came to Shalem, a city of Shechem, which [is] in the land of Canaan, when he came from Padanaram; and pitched his tent before the city.

Joshua 20:7

¶ And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which [is] Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.

Joshua 12:12

The king of Eglon, one; the king of Gezer, one;

1 Kings 9:16

[For] Pharaoh king of Egypt had gone up, and taken Gezer, and burnt it with fire, and slain the Canaanites that dwelt in the city, and given it [for] a present unto his daughter, Solomon's wife.

Genesis 35:4

And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which [were] in their hand, and [all their] earrings which [were] in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which [was] by Shechem.