Deuteronomy 18:8

KJV

They shall have like portions to eat, beside that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony.

KJV (with Strong's)

They shall have like portions {H2506} to eat {H398}, beside that which cometh of the sale {H4465} of his patrimony {H1}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Such a Levi will receive the same share as they do, in addition to what he may receive from selling his inherited ancestral property.

Berean Standard Bible

They shall eat equal portions, even though he has received money from the sale of his father’s estate.

American Standard Version

They shall have like portions to eat, besides that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 18:8 articulates a specific divine provision for the Levitical priests, ensuring that any Levite who chose to serve at the central sanctuary would receive an equitable share of the sacred offerings and portions, irrespective of their tribal origin or personal financial standing. This ordinance underscored God's commitment to sustaining those dedicated to His service, clarifying that any income derived from the sale of personal, inherited property would not diminish their right to these divinely ordained provisions, thus encouraging full-time devotion to their priestly duties.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Deuteronomy 18:8 is nestled within a significant section of the Deuteronomic code (Deuteronomy 12-26) that lays out the foundational laws and statutes for Israel's life in the Promised Land, with a strong emphasis on religious practice and social justice. More precisely, it falls within the segment (Deuteronomy 18:1-8) that meticulously details the unique provisions and responsibilities of the priests and Levites. This passage immediately follows the declaration in [Deuteronomy 18:1](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1 - The Levites' Inheritance") that the tribe of Levi would "have no part nor inheritance with Israel," but rather their sustenance would be the "offerings made by fire unto the LORD, and his inheritance." Verse 8, therefore, serves as a practical clarification and application of this principle, guaranteeing fairness and equal access to provisions for all Levites serving at the designated central sanctuary, often referred to as "the place which the LORD shall choose" (cf. [Deuteronomy 12:5](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5 - The Chosen Place for Worship")). It ensures that a Levite, regardless of where they resided in Israel, could come and serve without financial disadvantage.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, land inheritance was paramount, forming the bedrock of tribal identity, economic security, and social standing. The meticulous division of the land among the twelve tribes, as detailed in [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13-19 - Division of the Land"), notably excluded the tribe of Levi from receiving a territorial inheritance. This unique status was not a disadvantage but a profound divine appointment, signifying their exclusive dedication to the Lord's service. Their multifaceted role encompassed ministering at the tabernacle and later the Temple, teaching the Law, and serving as judges. Given that Levites were dispersed throughout Israel in designated cities (cf. [Numbers 35:1-8](/numbers/35-1 "Numbers 35:1-8 - Levitical Cities of Refuge")), the provision in [Deuteronomy 18:8](/deuteronomy/18-8 "Deuteronomy 18:8 - Provision for Levites") was vital. It enabled Levites from any part of the land to come and serve at the central sanctuary without fear of economic disparity, ensuring that their full-time devotion to sacred duties was unhindered by worldly concerns about sustenance.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Provision for Ministry**, emphasizing God's meticulous care for those consecrated to His service. The Lord Himself is explicitly declared the Levites' inheritance (cf. [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - God as Levites' Inheritance")), and He establishes a system through the people's offerings to sustain them. Secondly, the phrase "like portions" underscores the theme of **Equality and Unity in Service**. It promotes fairness and prevents favoritism among the Levites, fostering a cohesive and dedicated workforce for the sanctuary. Thirdly, the mention of "patrimony" reinforces the theme of **Unwavering Dedication and Accessibility**. It ensures that a Levite's personal financial standing or the sale of inherited personal assets would not impact their right to the sacred provisions, thereby encouraging and enabling any Levite to commit fully to central sanctuary service without financial penalty.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Portions (Hebrew, _chêleq'_):** From H2506, this term properly denotes an allotment or a part. In the context of the Levitical provisions, it refers to the divinely designated shares of the sacrifices, offerings, and tithes that the people brought to the sanctuary. These "portions" were the prescribed sustenance for the priests and Levites, emphasizing an equitable distribution among all serving members of the tribe.
* **Eat (Hebrew, _ʼâkal'_):** From H398, this primitive root means "to eat" literally or figuratively, often implying consumption or provision. Here, it signifies the act of consuming the allotted "portions," underscoring that these provisions were their means of livelihood and sustenance, enabling them to live and serve without engaging in secular labor for food.
* **Patrimony (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** From H1, this word primarily means "father" but can also, by idiom, refer to "patrimony" or inherited property from one's ancestors. In Deuteronomy 18:8, "his patrimony" refers to personal, inherited possessions or wealth (like houses in Levitical cities or other movable goods) that a Levite might possess, distinct from the tribal land inheritance. The verse clarifies that income from the "sale" (H4465, _mimkâr_) of such inherited personal assets would not affect their right to the sacred portions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They shall have like portions to eat":** This clause establishes the fundamental principle of equitable distribution of sacred provisions among all Levites who come to serve at the central sanctuary. It mandates that every Levite, regardless of their specific origin or previous status, is entitled to the same share of the offerings and tithes. This ensures fairness, prevents discrimination, and promotes unity among those dedicated to the Lord's work, emphasizing that their sustenance comes directly from the worship of the people. The "eating" signifies their livelihood derived from these divine provisions.
* **"beside that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony."**: This crucial qualifying phrase clarifies that any income a Levite might gain from selling personal, inherited property (not tribal land, as they had none) was entirely separate from and additional to their divinely appointed "portions." It means such private income would not reduce their right to receive their full share of the sacred offerings. This provision served as an incentive and assurance for Levites to come and serve at the central sanctuary, guaranteeing that their personal assets would not be considered part of their ministerial support, thus allowing them to dedicate themselves fully to their duties without financial penalty.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 18:8 employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. The primary device is **Legal Stipulation**, as the verse functions as a clear, concise commandment within the broader Deuteronomic law code, outlining specific provisions for the Levitical priesthood. There is also an element of **Contrast** implicit in the verse, as it subtly contrasts the land inheritance of the other tribes with the unique, divinely provided "portions" for the Levites. This highlights the Levites' distinct role and their complete dependence on God's provision through the people. Furthermore, the phrase "like portions" demonstrates **Emphasis** on fairness and equity, ensuring that all serving Levites are treated justly and without favoritism. The meticulous detail concerning "the sale of his patrimony" serves as a **Clarification** or **Exclusion**, precisely defining what income sources are *not* to be considered part of their divinely ordained support, thereby preventing ambiguity and ensuring the full and unhindered provision for their ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 18:8 offers profound theological insights into God's character and His design for ministry. It reveals a God who is meticulously concerned with the well-being of those dedicated to His service, ensuring their sustenance so they can focus on their spiritual duties without worldly distraction. The principle of equal portions among Levites underscores God's value for unity, fairness, and the prevention of internal strife within His consecrated workforce. This divine provision, rooted in the Levites' unique inheritance of the Lord Himself, establishes a foundational principle for the support of spiritual leaders throughout salvation history, demonstrating that those who minister should be sustained by the community they serve, allowing them to devote themselves fully to the work of God.

* [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is Your Inheritance")
* [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - Support for Gospel Preachers")
* [Galatians 6:6](/galatians/6-6 "Galatians 6:6 - Share with Your Teacher")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 18:8, though set in the context of ancient Israelite priesthood, offers enduring principles for the support and conduct of ministry today. It calls believers to recognize the importance of providing for those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, echoing the New Testament affirmation that "the laborer is worthy of his wages" ([1 Timothy 5:18](/1_timothy/5-18 "1 Timothy 5:18 - Laborer Worthy of Wages")). This provision is not merely charity but a divine design that enables ministers to focus wholeheartedly on their calling—teaching, pastoring, evangelizing, and discipling—without being unduly burdened by financial anxieties. Furthermore, the emphasis on "like portions" reminds us of the importance of equity and fairness within the body of Christ, ensuring that those serving are treated justly and that unity is maintained. For those in ministry, it is a powerful reminder to trust in God's provision through His people, allowing them to remain dedicated to their sacred task, knowing that their true inheritance is the Lord Himself, and He will ensure their needs are met. This verse encourages a symbiotic relationship: the community supports the ministers, and the ministers, freed from worldly cares, can fully devote themselves to the spiritual nourishment of the community.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle of God's provision for the Levites challenge our modern understanding of financial support for full-time ministry?**
* **In what ways can a church or community ensure "like portions" and equitable treatment for all those serving in ministry, regardless of their specific role or background?**
* **How does the Levites' unique "inheritance" (the Lord Himself) inform our own understanding of our ultimate inheritance as believers in Christ?**
* **What practical steps can individuals take to contribute to the support of those who minister the Word of God today?**

### FAQ
**Why did the tribe of Levi not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes?**

Answer: The tribe of Levi did not receive a territorial land inheritance because they were set apart by God for a unique and sacred purpose: to serve as priests and ministers at the tabernacle and, later, the temple. Their inheritance was the Lord Himself, as stated in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - God as Levites' Inheritance"): "I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel." This meant their sustenance came directly from the offerings and tithes of the other tribes, allowing them to be fully dedicated to their spiritual duties without the distraction of managing land or engaging in agriculture. This arrangement underscored their complete dependence on God's provision through the worship of His people.

**What is meant by "patrimony" in Deuteronomy 18:8, and how is it different from land inheritance?**

Answer: In this context, "patrimony" refers to personal, inherited property or possessions that a Levite might have, distinct from the tribal land inheritance that was distributed to the other eleven tribes. While the Levites did not receive a tribal land portion, they could still inherit personal assets such as houses within their designated Levitical cities (cf. [Numbers 35:2-8](/numbers/35-2 "Numbers 35:2-8 - Levitical Cities")), movable goods, or other forms of personal wealth passed down from their ancestors. Deuteronomy 18:8 clarifies that if a Levite chose to sell such personal, inherited property, the income from that sale would not reduce their right to receive their divinely ordained "portions" from the sanctuary offerings. It ensured that their personal financial decisions did not impact their ministerial support, thereby safeguarding their full entitlement to the provisions for their service.

**Does the principle of supporting ministers in Deuteronomy 18:8 apply to Christian ministry today?**

Answer: Yes, the underlying principle of supporting those who dedicate their lives to spiritual ministry is clearly affirmed and carried forward into the New Testament. Just as God ordained provision for the Levites, the New Testament teaches that those who preach the gospel should be supported by the gospel. For example, [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - Support for Gospel Preachers") states, "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel." Similarly, [Galatians 6:6](/galatians/6-6 "Galatians 6:6 - Share all good things with their instructor in the word") encourages believers to "share all good things with their instructor in the word." This principle ensures that Christian ministers can devote themselves fully to teaching, pastoring, and evangelizing without being distracted by the need to earn a secular living, thereby enabling the flourishing of the church and the spread of the gospel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 18:8, with its intricate provisions for the Levitical priesthood, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Levitical system, with its priests, sacrifices, and offerings, served as a shadow pointing to the perfect reality to come ([Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law as a Shadow")). Jesus is our great High Priest, not of the order of Levi, but "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:11](/hebrews/7-11 "Hebrews 7:11 - Priesthood of Melchizedek")), whose priesthood is eternal and superior. The Levites' dependence on the "portions" from the offerings foreshadows Christ's singular and sufficient sacrifice, by which we receive spiritual sustenance and an eternal inheritance. Unlike the Levites who received no land but had God as their portion, believers in Christ now possess an "inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - Our Heavenly Inheritance")). Through Christ, we are not merely providers of portions but recipients of the ultimate spiritual "portion"—eternal life and communion with God. Moreover, the concept of "like portions" among the Levites speaks to the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, who are now a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), equally partakers of the divine nature and the spiritual blessings found in Him ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Our "patrimony" is no longer earthly possessions that might be sold, but a spiritual inheritance secured by Christ's finished work, allowing us to serve Him fully, knowing that in Him, all our needs are met and our eternal portion is guaranteed.

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

Nehemiah 12:44

¶ And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.

Nehemiah 12:47

And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah, gave the portions of the singers and the porters, every day his portion: and they sanctified [holy things] unto the Levites; and the Levites sanctified [them] unto the children of Aaron.

Luke 10:7

And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

2 Chronicles 31:4

Moreover he commanded the people that dwelt in Jerusalem to give the portion of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged in the law of the LORD.

Leviticus 7:14

And of it he shall offer one out of the whole oblation [for] an heave offering unto the LORD, [and] it shall be the priest's that sprinkleth the blood of the peace offerings.

1 Timothy 5:17

¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

1 Timothy 5:18

For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer [is] worthy of his reward.