Joshua 13:33

But unto the tribe of Levi Moses gave not [any] inheritance: the LORD God of Israel [was] their inheritance, as he said unto them.

But unto the tribe {H7626} of Levi {H3878} Moses {H4872} gave {H5414} not any inheritance {H5159}: the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478} was their inheritance {H5159}, as he said {H1696} unto them.

But to the tribe of Levi Moshe gave no inheritance; ADONAI the God of Isra'el is their inheritance - as he told them.

To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, just as He had promised them.

But unto the tribe of Levi Moses gave no inheritance: Jehovah, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as he spake unto them.

Commentary

Context of Joshua 13:33

Joshua chapter 13 begins the detailed account of the land distribution among the Israelite tribes after their conquest of Canaan. While the chapter primarily outlines the territories assigned to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua 13:33 serves as a crucial parenthetical note regarding the tribe of Levi. This verse reiterates a directive given much earlier by Moses, setting the Levites apart from the other tribes concerning their inheritance in the land. It highlights their unique role in Israelite society and the divine provision arranged for them.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Inheritance vs. Material Possessions: The core message of this verse is that for the tribe of Levi, God Himself was their inheritance. Unlike the other tribes who received specific territorial allotments, the Levites were dedicated to the service of the tabernacle and later the temple. Their livelihood came from the offerings and tithes brought to the Lord by the other tribes, which they, as priests and ministers, administered and lived from (Numbers 18:20-21). This arrangement emphasized a spiritual and relational form of provision over a material one.
  • The Uniqueness of the Levitical Priesthood: This verse underscores the special status of the Levites. They were chosen by God for sacred service, teaching the law, and mediating between God and the people. Their lack of land inheritance was not a disadvantage but a privilege, signifying their complete dependence on and devotion to the Lord.
  • Obedience to God's Word: The phrase "as he said unto them" confirms that Moses's actions regarding the Levites' inheritance were in direct obedience to God's earlier commands (e.g., Deuteronomy 10:9). This highlights the importance of following divine instructions for the welfare and order of the community.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "inheritance" is nachalah (ื ึทื—ึฒืœึธื”), which typically refers to a landed possession passed down through generations. However, in the context of the Levites, its application is profoundly spiritual and metaphorical. Instead of a physical plot of ground, their nachalah was the very presence and provision of "the LORD God of Israel." This linguistic distinction underscores the unique and sacred nature of their calling, where their ultimate security and blessing were found directly in their relationship with God.

Practical Application

The principle articulated in Joshua 13:33 holds profound relevance for believers today. It challenges us to consider where our true security and satisfaction lie. While material possessions are often sought, this verse reminds us that:

  • God is Our Ultimate Source: Our greatest inheritance and deepest security are found in God Himself, not in earthly wealth or possessions. Like the Levites, we are called to depend on His provision and find our joy in His presence (Psalm 16:5).
  • Prioritizing Spiritual Over Material: This verse encourages us to prioritize spiritual devotion and service over the accumulation of worldly goods. When God is our focus, He promises to meet our needs.
  • Contentment in Calling: For those in full-time ministry or any form of Christian service, this serves as a powerful reminder that their true reward and provision come from the Lord, validating their dedication and trust in Him.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Joshua 18:7 (8 votes)

    But the Levites have no part among you; for the priesthood of the LORD [is] their inheritance: and Gad, and Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh, have received their inheritance beyond Jordan on the east, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave them.

  • Joshua 13:14 (7 votes)

    Only unto the tribe of Levi he gave none inheritance; the sacrifices of the LORD God of Israel made by fire [are] their inheritance, as he said unto them.

  • Deuteronomy 18:1 (5 votes)

    ยถ The priests the Levites, [and] all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and his inheritance.

  • Deuteronomy 18:2 (5 votes)

    Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren: the LORD [is] their inheritance, as he hath said unto them.

  • Deuteronomy 10:9 (5 votes)

    Wherefore Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the LORD [is] his inheritance, according as the LORD thy God promised him.

  • Numbers 18:20 (4 votes)

    ยถ And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I [am] thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.