Joshua 18:7

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

But the Levites {H3881} have no part {H2506} among {H7130} you; for the priesthood {H3550} of the LORD {H3068} is their inheritance {H5159}: and Gad {H1410}, and Reuben {H7205}, and half {H2677} the tribe {H7626} of Manasseh {H4519}, have received {H3947} their inheritance {H5159} beyond {H5676} Jordan {H3383} on the east {H4217}, which Moses {H4872} the servant {H5650} of the LORD {H3068} gave {H5414} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

But the L'vi'im have no share with you, because the office of cohen to ADONAI is their inheritance; and Gad and Re'uven and the half-tribe of M'nasheh have received their inheritance beyond the Yarden to the east, which Moshe the servant of ADONAI gave them."

Berean Standard Bible

The Levites, however, have no portion among you, because their inheritance is the priesthood of the LORD. And Gad, Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh have already received the inheritance that Moses the servant of the LORD gave them beyond the Jordan to the east.”

American Standard Version

For the Levites have no portion among you; for the priesthood of Jehovah is their inheritance: and Gad and Reuben and the half-tribe of Manasseh have received their inheritance beyond the Jordan eastward, which Moses the servant of Jehovah gave them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 18:7 meticulously outlines the unique status of two specific groups within Israel regarding the land distribution in Canaan. It first clarifies that the tribe of Levi is excluded from a territorial inheritance, as their divine portion is the sacred priesthood of the LORD, signifying their unique spiritual calling and service. Secondly, the verse reiterates that the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh have already received their designated inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan River, an allocation previously established and granted by Moses, the servant of the LORD. This verse thus underscores God's precise order in fulfilling His covenant promises and establishing the functional structure of the nascent nation, ensuring clarity in the ongoing division of the land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 18:7 is strategically placed within the larger narrative of the land distribution, which spans [Joshua 13](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13 - Initial Land Divisions") through [Joshua 19](/joshua/19 "Joshua 19 - Final Land Divisions"). Specifically, it appears after the initial major tribal allocations to Judah, Ephraim, and the other half of Manasseh (chapters 15-17). The verse serves as a crucial parenthetical clarification preceding the survey of the remaining land and its subsequent division among the seven remaining tribes (starting in [Joshua 18:8](/joshua/18-8 "Joshua 18:8 - Survey of the Land")). Its purpose is to explicitly state why the Levites and the Transjordanian tribes are not participating in this current land lottery, thereby preventing confusion and reinforcing the divine order established earlier. It ensures that the subsequent actions of Joshua in Shiloh (as detailed in [Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - The Tabernacle at Shiloh")) are understood within the complete framework of God's plan for the settlement of Israel.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The division of Canaan represented the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding a land for their descendants. This period marked a pivotal transition for Israel from a nomadic people to a settled nation, necessitating a clear system of land tenure and societal structure. In ancient Israelite society, "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, _nachalah'_) was not merely property but a fundamental aspect of identity, family lineage, economic security, and covenantal blessing. The unique status of the Levites, who received no territorial inheritance, was a distinct theological and cultural arrangement. Their support came from tithes and offerings from the other tribes, as stipulated in [Numbers 18:20-24](/numbers/18-20-24 "Numbers 18:20-24 - The Levites' Portion and Support"), allowing them to focus entirely on their priestly and cultic duties without entanglement in agricultural or land management concerns. The prior allocation of land to the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan was a specific agreement made with Moses, contingent on their participation in the conquest of Canaan, a narrative detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Transjordanian Tribes Settle East of the Jordan").

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 18:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Faithfulness and Fulfillment**, demonstrating God's meticulous adherence to His covenant promises—not only concerning the land itself but also regarding the specific roles and provisions for the Levites and the prior arrangements for the Transjordanian tribes. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Order and Structure in God's Plan**, showcasing how God orchestrates the settlement of His people with precision, ensuring each tribe has a defined place and purpose, from the land-owning tribes to the spiritually dedicated Levites. Thirdly, it underscores the **Unique Nature of Levitical Service**, emphasizing that their "inheritance" is spiritual and relational—the priesthood of the LORD—rather than material. This sets them apart as guardians of the covenant and mediators of God's presence, a theme deeply rooted in passages like [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance is the Lord"). Finally, the reference to "Moses the servant of the LORD" subtly reinforces the **Continuity of Divine Authority**, validating the prior arrangements and ensuring that the current actions under Joshua are in direct alignment with God's commands given through His chosen leader.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Part (Hebrew, _chêleq'_):** from חָלָק; properly, smoothness (of the tongue); also an allotment; flattery, inheritance, part, [idiom] partake, portion. In this context, "part" refers to a territorial share or portion of the land. The declaration that the Levites have "no part" among the other tribes explicitly states their exclusion from the land distribution, contrasting sharply with the material inheritance given to the other tribes.
* **Priesthood (Hebrew, _kᵉhunnâh'_):** from כָּהַן; priesthood; priesthood, priest's office. This term denotes the sacred office and function of priests, who were consecrated to mediate between God and the people, offer sacrifices, teach the Law, and minister in the tabernacle. For the Levites, this was not merely a duty but their entire identity and means of sustenance, directly provided by God through the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, signifying a life wholly dedicated to the worship and service of Yahweh.
* **Inheritance (Hebrew, _nachălâh'_):** from נָחַל (in its usual sense); properly, something inherited, i.e. (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion; heritage, to inherit, inheritance, possession. This crucial term signifies an allotted portion or possession, often with the connotation of something received by divine grant or ancestral right. For the land-owning tribes, it refers to their territorial portion. For the Levites, however, it is uniquely defined as "the priesthood of the LORD," emphasizing that their portion, sustenance, and identity are derived directly from their sacred service to God, not from land ownership. This spiritual inheritance is portrayed as equally, if not more, valuable than material land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the Levites have no part among you; for the priesthood of the LORD [is] their inheritance:"** This opening clause immediately distinguishes the Levites from the other Israelite tribes in terms of land acquisition. "No part" (חֵלֶק, _cheleq'_) signifies that they will not receive a territorial share of the land. This exclusion is not a deprivation but a divinely ordained distinction, as their "inheritance" is explicitly identified as the "priesthood of the LORD." This arrangement ensured their singular focus on sacred duties and their dependence on God's provision, mediated through the tithes and offerings from the other tribes, reinforcing their unique spiritual role within the nation.
* **"and Gad, and Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh, have received their inheritance beyond Jordan on the east,"** This segment clarifies the status of the two-and-a-half Transjordanian tribes. It confirms that their land allocation has already been completed, prior to the current division of land west of the Jordan. The phrase "beyond Jordan on the east" (מֵעֵבֶר לַיַּרְדֵּן מִזְרָחָה, _me'ever layarden mizrachah'_) precisely locates the region they settled, known for its fertile plains and pasturage suitable for their large flocks. This statement serves to account for these tribes and prevent any expectation that they would participate in the ongoing land lottery within Canaan proper.
* **"which Moses the servant of the LORD gave them."** This concluding phrase provides the authoritative basis for the Transjordanian tribes' inheritance. By attributing the allocation to "Moses the servant of the LORD," the text emphasizes that this arrangement was not an arbitrary human decision but a divinely sanctioned and executed act through God's chosen leader. It firmly links the current events in Joshua to the foundational acts of the Mosaic era, reinforcing the continuity of God's plan and the unquestionable legitimacy of the prior land distribution.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 18:7 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Explanatory Clarification** is central, as the verse functions as a parenthetical explanation within the broader narrative of land distribution, ensuring the audience understands the exceptions to the general process. **Contrast** is evident in the distinct forms of "inheritance" described: the material land for the Transjordanian tribes versus the spiritual "priesthood of the LORD" for the Levites, highlighting their unique divine callings. The repeated use of the term "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, _nachalah'_) throughout the verse creates a powerful **Thematic Repetition**, underscoring the central concept of divine provision and allotted portion, while simultaneously showcasing its diverse manifestations. Finally, the appellation "Moses the servant of the LORD" functions as an **Appeal to Authority**, lending immense weight and divine sanction to the historical actions and agreements, thereby solidifying the legitimacy of the land allocations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 18:7 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous and diverse provision for His people, demonstrating that His blessings are not uniform but perfectly tailored to individual callings and circumstances within His overarching plan. The unique inheritance of the Levites underscores the principle that true wealth and security are found not merely in material possessions but, more profoundly, in one's relationship with God and faithful service to Him. Their dependence on God through the tithes and offerings of the other tribes fostered a communal interdependence, where the spiritual well-being of the nation was directly linked to the support of its priestly class. This verse also highlights the enduring continuity of God's covenant plan, showing how the promises made and arrangements established under Moses are faithfully brought to fruition under Joshua's leadership, reinforcing divine faithfulness across generations and demonstrating that God's word is always fulfilled.

* [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' Portion and Blessing")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 18:7 offers profound insights for contemporary believers concerning the nature of true inheritance and faithful service. The Levites' calling reminds us that not all blessings are material; indeed, the most valuable inheritance may be a spiritual one—a direct relationship with God and a life dedicated to His service. This challenges us to re-evaluate our own priorities, prompting us to ask whether we are primarily pursuing earthly gains or seeking our deepest satisfaction and security in Christ. Just as the Levites were set apart to facilitate the worship and spiritual health of Israel, so too are believers today called to be a "royal priesthood," mediating God's grace to the world and living lives that reflect His glory. Our "inheritance" in Christ is far richer than any earthly possession, encompassing forgiveness, eternal life, and a purpose-driven existence within God's kingdom. This verse encourages us to embrace our unique callings within the body of Christ, recognizing that diverse gifts and roles contribute to the flourishing of the whole, and that our sustenance ultimately comes from God's faithful provision, often through the generosity and mutual support of the community of faith. It calls us to find our identity and security not in what we possess, but in who we are in Christ and whose we are.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for your "inheritance" to be found in your relationship with God, rather than in material possessions or worldly achievements?**
* **How does the Levites' dependence on God's provision and the support of the community challenge our modern notions of self-sufficiency and individualism?**
* **In what ways can you, as part of God's "royal priesthood," live out your calling to serve God and mediate His grace in your daily life and spheres of influence?**
* **How do you reconcile the idea of a "spiritual inheritance" with the practical needs and responsibilities of daily living, and how does faith inform your approach to both?**

### FAQ

**Why didn't the Levites receive a land inheritance like the other tribes?**

Answer: The Levites did not receive a territorial land inheritance because their inheritance was the "priesthood of the LORD." This unique arrangement, established by God through Moses (as seen in [Numbers 18:20-24](/numbers/18-20-24 "Numbers 18:20-24 - The Levites' Portion and Support")), meant their sustenance and purpose were directly tied to their sacred service in the tabernacle and later the temple. They were to live in designated cities scattered among the other tribes, supported by the tithes and offerings of the people. This ensured their full dedication to spiritual duties, preventing them from being distracted by agricultural pursuits or land management. Their identity and provision came directly from God, making them wholly dependent on Him and the generosity of the nation, thus setting them apart for sacred service.

**What was the significance of Moses being called "the servant of the LORD" in this context?**

Answer: The title "Moses the servant of the LORD" carries significant weight and authority. In the context of [Joshua 18:7](/joshua/18-7 "Joshua 18:7 - The Levites' and Transjordanian Tribes' Inheritance"), it legitimizes and validates the prior arrangements made for the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh. By stating that Moses, God's chosen and faithful servant, gave them their inheritance east of the Jordan, the text underscores that this allocation was not an arbitrary human decision but a divinely sanctioned act. It reinforces the continuity of God's plan and the authoritative nature of the commands and agreements established during the wilderness wanderings, ensuring that the current land division under Joshua aligns seamlessly with God's overarching will and past decrees.

**How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's faithfulness in the book of Joshua?**

Answer: Joshua 18:7 strongly reinforces the theme of God's faithfulness. The entire book of Joshua is a powerful testament to God fulfilling His covenant promises, particularly the promise of land to Abraham's descendants. This verse specifically highlights two aspects of that faithfulness: first, God's meticulous provision for the Levites, ensuring their unique spiritual role is sustained and honored; and second, the faithful execution of the agreement made with the Transjordanian tribes by Moses. It demonstrates that God's plans are meticulously carried out, from the grand promise of the land to the specific arrangements for each tribe and their unique callings, underscoring His reliability, precision, and unwavering commitment to His people and His word.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 18:7, with its delineation of the Levites' unique spiritual inheritance and the prior allocation of land by Moses, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Levites, whose inheritance was the "priesthood of the LORD" and not earthly land, powerfully prefigure the ultimate spiritual inheritance found in Christ. Believers in the New Testament are not promised a physical land, but rather an eternal inheritance in heaven, imperishable and undefiled (as taught in [Colossians 1:12](/colossians/1-12 "Colossians 1:12 - Sharing in the Inheritance of the Saints") and [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable and Undefiled")). More significantly, Christ Himself is our true and ultimate inheritance, the one in whom "we have obtained an inheritance" (as declared in [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Predestined in Christ")), embodying all the promises of God. Furthermore, the Levitical priesthood, though divinely ordained for its time, was temporary and imperfect, requiring continuous sacrifices. This points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest, offering a single, perfect sacrifice that atones for sin once for all (as explained in [Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice") and [Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ Entered the Holy Place Once for All")). His priesthood is eternal, unchangeable, and superior, perfectly fulfilling the shadows of the Old Covenant. Just as Moses, "the servant of the LORD," faithfully distributed the earthly land, so Jesus, the Son of God and ultimate Servant, faithfully secures and distributes the spiritual inheritance of salvation and eternal life to all who believe, ushering them into the true promised land of God's eternal kingdom and establishing a new covenant where all believers are a "royal priesthood" (as stated in [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")).

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 13:33

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

Numbers 18:20

¶ 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.

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;

Joshua 13:31

And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining] unto the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.

Numbers 18:23

But the Levites shall do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they shall bear their iniquity: [it shall be] a statute for ever throughout your generations, that among the children of Israel they have no inheritance.

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.