Joshua 14:3

KJV

For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan: but unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them.

KJV (with Strong's)

For Moses {H4872} had given {H5414} the inheritance {H5159} of two {H8147} tribes {H4294} and an half {H2677} tribe {H4294} on the other side {H5676} Jordan {H3383}: but unto the Levites {H3881} he gave {H5414} none inheritance {H5159} among {H8432} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe had already given the inheritances to the two tribes and the half-tribe beyond the Yarden; to the L'vi'im he gave no inheritance among them.

Berean Standard Bible

For Moses had given the inheritance east of the Jordan to the other two and a half tribes. But he granted no inheritance among them to the Levites.

American Standard Version

For Moses had given the inheritance of the two tribes and the half-tribe beyond the Jordan: but unto the Levites he gave no inheritance among them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 14:3 serves as a pivotal explanatory verse within the narrative of Israel's land distribution, providing essential background on two distinct aspects of the inheritance process established by Moses. It clarifies that two and a half tribes had already received their allotted territory east of the Jordan River, while simultaneously reiterating the unique status of the Levites, who were designated no territorial inheritance among the other tribes, setting the stage for the specific allocations that follow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears at a crucial juncture in the Book of Joshua, specifically within the section detailing the division of the promised land (Joshua 13-21). Following the successful military campaigns and the defeat of various Canaanite kings, the focus shifts from conquest to settlement. Joshua 13 provides a general overview of the land yet to be possessed and begins to outline the initial tribal allocations, particularly those east of the Jordan. Joshua 14 then transitions to the specific distribution west of the Jordan, beginning with Caleb's significant request for Hebron. Verse 3 acts as an important parenthetical note, reminding the reader of prior arrangements that precede the current distribution, ensuring that the subsequent allotments are understood within the complete framework of God's plan for all twelve tribes. It sets the stage for Caleb's inheritance and the subsequent detailed tribal boundaries.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Joshua 14:3 hark back to the end of the wilderness wanderings, before Israel entered Canaan. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had requested land east of the Jordan River because of its suitability for their large livestock (Numbers 32:1-5). Moses granted their request on the condition that their fighting men would cross the Jordan and assist the other tribes in conquering the land to the west (Numbers 32:16-27). This agreement, now being fulfilled, underscores the importance of covenant fidelity and inter-tribal cooperation. Furthermore, the exclusion of the Levites from a territorial inheritance reflects a unique divine mandate established at Sinai. Unlike other ancient Near Eastern societies where priests often held significant land, the Levites were set apart for exclusive service to the Lord, their provision coming from the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, and dwelling in cities scattered throughout the land (Numbers 35:1-8). This arrangement emphasized their spiritual role and prevented them from becoming a land-based political power, ensuring their dependence on God and the people.

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 14:3 contributes to several overarching themes in Joshua and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Order and Fulfillment**, demonstrating God's meticulous and faithful execution of His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning the land. The distribution is not arbitrary but follows long-established divine directives given through [Moses](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordanian Tribes"). Secondly, the verse underscores **Distinct Callings and Provision**, illustrating that God provides for His people in diverse ways according to their unique roles. While most tribes received a territorial "inheritance," the Levites were designated a spiritual inheritance—the Lord Himself and the offerings of Israel (as seen in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Levites' Inheritance") and [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Portion")). This distinction emphasizes that true blessing is not solely material. Lastly, the verse reinforces **Historical Continuity**, linking the present events in Joshua directly to the foundational commands and arrangements made during the wilderness wanderings under Moses' leadership. This connection validates Joshua's authority and assures Israel that the land distribution is part of God's consistent, unfolding plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Inheritance (Hebrew, _naḥălāh'_):** This term, occurring twice in the verse, is central to understanding the passage. _Naḥălāh_ signifies more than just a piece of property; it denotes an enduring possession, an ancestral portion, or a heritage. It carries strong covenantal connotations, representing the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land. For the tribes, it was their permanent, divinely-allotted stake in the promised land, a symbol of their identity and security. For the Levites, the absence of this territorial _naḥălāh_ underscored their unique spiritual inheritance, where "the Lord is their inheritance" (Deuteronomy 10:9), emphasizing a spiritual rather than material legacy.
* **Given (Hebrew, _nātan'_):** The verb "given" highlights the active role of Moses, acting as God's agent, in the initial distribution of land east of the Jordan. It emphasizes that these allotments were not seized by human might alone, but were divinely ordained and bestowed. This verb reinforces the theme of divine sovereignty and the orderly nature of God's provision for His people, underscoring that all land possession was ultimately a gift from God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan:"** This clause provides crucial background information, referencing a past event that impacts the present land distribution. It explains that the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh had already received their territorial _naḥălāh_ (inheritance) from Moses, east of the Jordan River. This pre-emptive allocation was a result of their specific request and covenant with Moses, contingent on their participation in the conquest of Canaan. The use of "For" indicates that this is an explanatory statement, clarifying why only nine and a half tribes are now receiving land west of the Jordan.
* **"but unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them."** This contrasting clause highlights the unique status of the tribe of Levi. Unlike the other tribes who received a territorial _naḥălāh_, the Levites were specifically excluded from a land inheritance "among them" (i.e., among the other tribes receiving tribal territories). This reiterates a fundamental principle established earlier in the Pentateuch: the Levites' inheritance was the Lord Himself, their provision coming from the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, and their dwelling in designated cities scattered throughout Israel. This distinction underscores their sacred, priestly function and their dependence on God's direct provision and the support of the community.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 14:3 effectively employs **Contrast** and **Repetition** to convey its message. The verse sharply contrasts the two and a half tribes who *did* receive a territorial inheritance with the Levites who received "none inheritance among them." This juxtaposition immediately highlights the unique divine arrangements for each group, underscoring the diverse ways God provides for and calls His people. The **Repetition** of the concept of "inheritance" (implied through the Hebrew _naḥălāh_) draws attention to this central theme, emphasizing its significance as a divinely ordained portion, whether material or spiritual. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of **Parenthetical Explanation**, providing crucial background information that clarifies the ongoing narrative of land distribution without disrupting the main flow of Caleb's story.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully articulates God's meticulous and diverse provision for His people, demonstrating that His faithfulness extends to every tribe according to their unique calling. It underscores that God's promises are fulfilled not in a monolithic way, but through tailored arrangements that reflect His wisdom and the specific purposes He has for each part of His covenant community. The distinction between the land-owning tribes and the Levites teaches that true inheritance is not solely material; a spiritual inheritance in the Lord can be of greater value and significance. This principle challenges us to consider what our ultimate inheritance truly is and how God provides for those dedicated to spiritual service.

* [Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Moses Gives Land to Reuben, Gad, and Half-Manasseh")
* [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance")
* [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites Have No Portion or Inheritance with Their Brothers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 14:3 offers profound insights into God's character and our own place within His divine economy. It reminds us that God's provision is not uniform but perfectly suited to the unique calling He places on each individual and community. Just as the tribes had distinct roles—some settling the land, others serving in the tabernacle—so too do believers today have diverse gifts and ministries within the body of Christ. This verse encourages us to embrace our unique "inheritance," whether it involves tangible resources or a call to spiritual service, trusting that God will faithfully provide for us as we walk in obedience. It also challenges us to honor and support those who dedicate their lives to full-time ministry, recognizing that their "inheritance" is often spiritual and requires the material support of the broader community, much like the Levites depended on the tithes of Israel. Ultimately, it calls us to find our deepest satisfaction not in what we possess, but in the God who provides all things.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the diverse inheritances in Joshua challenge my own expectations of God's provision in my life?**
* **In what ways might God be calling me to a "Levitical" form of service, where my primary "inheritance" is spiritual rather than material?**
* **How can I better support those in my community or church whose primary calling is spiritual service, recognizing their unique form of "inheritance"?**

### FAQ
**Why did Moses give land to only two and a half tribes east of the Jordan, and not all of them?**

Answer: Moses granted land east of the Jordan to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh at their specific request. These tribes had a large number of livestock and found the fertile plains of Gilead and Bashan suitable for their herds (see [Numbers 32:1-5](/numbers/32-1-5 "Numbers 32:1-5 - Request for Land East of Jordan")). Moses agreed to their request on the condition that their fighting men would cross the Jordan River with the other tribes and help conquer the land of Canaan to the west. This arrangement ensured tribal unity and shared responsibility in fulfilling God's command to take the entire promised land, as detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordanian Tribes' Agreement").

**What was the Levites' "inheritance" if they received no land?**

Answer: The Levites' inheritance was unique and spiritual. As the tribe set apart for priestly and tabernacle service, their provision came directly from the Lord and the offerings of the other tribes. [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance") explicitly states, "You shall have no inheritance in their land, nor shall you have any portion among them; I am your portion and your inheritance among the sons of Israel." They received tithes, firstfruits, and portions of sacrifices from the other tribes, and were also given 48 cities scattered throughout Israel to dwell in, along with pastureland for their livestock (see [Numbers 35:1-8](/numbers/35-1-8 "Numbers 35:1-8 - Cities for the Levites")). This arrangement ensured their dedication to spiritual duties and their presence among all the tribes for teaching and ministry.

**How does this verse connect to the broader narrative of the Book of Joshua?**

Answer: Joshua 14:3 serves as a crucial contextual bridge, ensuring the reader understands the complete picture of land distribution. It explains why the subsequent detailed allotments in [Joshua 15-19](/joshua/15 "Joshua 15 - Allotment for Judah") only concern nine and a half tribes, as the other two and a half had already received their inheritance. Furthermore, it highlights the unique status of the Levites, which is elaborated upon later when their cities are assigned (see [Joshua 21](/joshua/21 "Joshua 21 - Cities for the Levites")). This verse underscores the continuity of God's covenant plan from Moses to Joshua, emphasizing that the entire process of land allocation was divinely ordained and meticulously fulfilled.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 14:3, with its delineation of diverse inheritances, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. While the Old Testament tribes received a physical land as their inheritance, Christ is the ultimate and eternal inheritance for all believers. Just as the Levites' portion was the Lord Himself, so for those in Christ, our spiritual inheritance is far greater than any earthly possession. We are "heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ" ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")), receiving "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). The distinct callings foreshadowed in Joshua—some settling the land, others serving in the tabernacle—are brought to their ultimate purpose in the Church, where all believers, by virtue of their union with Christ, are a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), called to offer spiritual sacrifices and proclaim the excellencies of Him who called them. Christ, through His atoning work, has secured for us not merely a plot of land, but eternal life and a spiritual dwelling in Him, fulfilling all of God's covenant promises in a way that transcends the material and points to the glorious reality of our heavenly citizenship ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")).

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 13:14

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.

Joshua 13:8

With whom the Reubenites and the Gadites have received their inheritance, which Moses gave them, beyond Jordan eastward, [even] as Moses the servant of the LORD gave them;

Numbers 32:29

And Moses said unto them, If the children of Gad and the children of Reuben will pass with you over Jordan, every man armed to battle, before the LORD, and the land shall be subdued before you; then ye shall give them the land of Gilead for a possession:

Numbers 32:42

And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.

Deuteronomy 3:12

¶ And this land, [which] we possessed at that time, from Aroer, which [is] by the river Arnon, and half mount Gilead, and the cities thereof, gave I unto the Reubenites and to the Gadites.

Deuteronomy 3:17

The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast [thereof], from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.

Joshua 13:32

These [are the countries] which Moses did distribute for inheritance in the plains of Moab, on the other side Jordan, by Jericho, eastward.