TRV
Translation
King James Version
And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.
Complete Jewish Bible
It was at Shiloh in the land of Kena'an that they spoke to them; they said, "ADONAI ordered through Moshe that we be given cities to live in, with the surrounding open land for our livestock."
Berean Standard Bible
at Shiloh in the land of Canaan and said to them, “The LORD commanded through Moses that we be given cities in which to live, together with pasturelands for our livestock.”
American Standard Version
and they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, Jehovah commanded by Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.
World English Bible Messianic
They spoke to them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, “The LORD commanded Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with their suburbs for our livestock.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
And spake vnto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The Lord commanded by the hande of Moses, to giue vs cities to dwell in, with the suburbes thereof for our cattell.
Young's Literal Translation
and they speak unto them in Shiloh, in the land of Canaan, saying, `Jehovah commanded by the hand of Moses to give to us cities to dwell in, and their suburbs for our cattle.'
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Commentary on Joshua 21 verses 1–8
1 ¶ Then came near the heads of the fathers of the Levites unto Eleazar the priest, and unto Joshua the son of Nun, and unto the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel;
2 And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.
3 And the children of Israel gave unto the Levites out of their inheritance, at the commandment of the LORD, these cities and their suburbs.
4 And the lot came out for the families of the Kohathites: and the children of Aaron the priest, which were of the Levites, had by lot out of the tribe of Judah, and out of the tribe of Simeon, and out of the tribe of Benjamin, thirteen cities.
5 And the rest of the children of Kohath had by lot out of the families of the tribe of Ephraim, and out of the tribe of Dan, and out of the half tribe of Manasseh, ten cities.
6 And the children of Gershon had by lot out of the families of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the half tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, thirteen cities.
7 The children of Merari by their families had out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.
8 And the children of Israel gave by lot unto the Levites these cities with their suburbs, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses.
Here is, I. The Levites' petition presented to this general convention of the states, now sitting at Shiloh, Jos 21:1, Jos 21:2. Observe, 1. They had not their lot assigned them till they made their claim. There is an inheritance provided for all the saints, that royal priesthood, but then they must petition for it. Ask, and it shall be given you. Joshua had quickened the rest of the tribes who were slack to put in their claims, but the Levites, it may be supposed, knew their duty and interest better than the rest, and were therefore forward in this matter, when it came to their turn, without being called upon. They build their claim upon a very good foundation, not their own merits nor services, but the divine precept: "The Lord commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities, commanded you to grant them, which implied a command to us to ask them." Note, The maintenance of ministers is not an arbitrary thing, left purely to the good-will of the people, who may let them starve if they please; no, as the God of Israel commanded that the Levites should be well provided for, so has the Lord Jesus, the King of the Christian church, ordained, and a perpetual ordinance it is that those who preach the gospel should live of the gospel (Co1 9:14), and should live comfortably. 2. They did not make their claim till all the rest of the tribes were provided for, and then they did it immediately. There was some reason for it; every tribe must first know their own, else they would not know what they gave the Levites, and so it could not be such a reasonable service as it ought to be. But it is also an instance of their humility, modesty, and patience (and Levites should be examples of these and other virtues), that they were willing to be served last, and they fared never the worse for it. Let not God's ministers complain if at any time they find themselves postponed in men's thoughts and cares, but let them make sure of the favour of God and the honour that comes from him, and then they may well enough afford to bear the slights and neglects of men.
II. The Levites' petition granted immediately, without any dispute, the princes of Israel being perhaps ashamed that they needed to be called upon in this matter, and that the motion had not been made among themselves for the settling of the Levites. 1. The children of Israel are said to give the cities for the Levites. God had appointed how many they should be in all, forty-eight. It is probable that Joshua and the princes, upon consideration of the extent and value of the lot of each tribe as it was laid before them, had appointed how many cities should be taken out of each; and then the fathers of the several tribes themselves agreed which they should be, and therefore are said to give them, as an offering, to the Lord; so God had appointed. Num 35:8, Every one shall give of his cities to the Levites. Here God tried their generosity, and it was found to praise and honour, for it appears by the following catalogue that the cities they gave to the Levites were generally some of the best and most considerable in each tribe. And it is probable that they had an eye to the situation of them, taking care they should be so dispersed as that no part of the country should be too far distant from a Levites' city. 2. They gave them at the commandment of the Lord, that is, with an eye to the command and in obedience to it, which was it that sanctified the grant. They gave the number that God commanded, and it was well this matter was settled that the Levites might not ask more nor the Israelites offer less. They gave them also with their suburbs, or glebe-lands, belonging to them, so many cubits by measure from the walls of the city, as God had commanded (Num 35:4, Num 35:5), and did not go about to cut them short. 3. When the forty-eight cities were pitched upon, they were divided into four lots, as they lay next together, and then by lot were determined to the four several families of the tribe of Levi. When the Israelites had surrendered the cities into the hand of God, he would himself have the distributing of them among his servants. (1.) The family of Aaron, who were the only priests, had for their share the thirteen cities that were given by the tribes of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin, Jos 21:4. God in wisdom ordered it thus, that though Jerusalem itself was not one of their cities, it being as yet in the possession of the Jebusites (and those generous tribes would not mock the Levites, who had another warfare to mind, with a city that must be recovered by the sword before it could be enjoyed), yet the cities that fell to their lot were those which lay next to Jerusalem, because that was to be, in process of time, the holy city, where their business would chiefly lie. (2.) The Kohathite-Levites (among whom were the posterity of Moses, though never distinguished from them) had the cities that lay in the lot of Dan, which lay next to Judah, and in that of Ephraim, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, which lay next to Benjamin. So those who descended from Aaron's father joined nearest to Aaron's sons. (3.) Gershon was the eldest son of Levi, and therefore, though the younger house of the Kohathites was preferred before his, yet his children had the precedency of the other family of Merari, Jos 21:6. (4.) The Merarites, the youngest house, had their lot last, and it lay furthest off, Jos 21:7. The rest of the sons of Jacob had a lot for every tribe only, but Levi, God's tribe, had a lot for each of its families; for there is a particular providence directing and attending the removals and settlements of ministers, and appointing where those shall fix who are to be the lights of the world.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–8. Public domain.
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Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
HOMILIES ON JOSHUA 25.4
Who will explain the diverse sites of the encampments, how this distribution must be retained in the resurrection for each priestly or levitical order of the saints, so that, just as the apostle says, nothing is done haphazardly in the resurrection, but everyone comes "in his own order, Christ first, then those who belong to Christ who have believed in his coming, when he will hand the kingdom over to our God and Father, when he will subject to him every principality and power"?On that occasion, without doubt, there will be some such observances of encampments and priestly distributions and ranks and signals of trumpets.
Origen of AlexandriaAD 253
HOMILIES ON JOSHUA 25.1
It was fitting that there be a drawing of lots even regarding the suburbs and cities so that perhaps the renowned division among the Levites might not seem perhaps indiscriminate and accidental. Therefore, the distribution by lot that took place among the sons of Israel was characterized by reason, by which someone was considered worthy of the first lot, and someone else the second, as we have already previously examined to the extent we were able. This was true in regard to both those who receive through Moses beyond the Jordan and those who receive from Jesus [Joshua] in the land of promise, where the first lot fell to Benjamin and afterwards to the rest, among whom Dan was the last. Even so it is necessary that there be some reason also in the order of priestly and levitical lots. Thus the first is drawn for someone, the second for someone else, and the third for another, through which these or those places are determined for each one.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Joshua 21:2 records the pivotal moment when the Levites, through their representatives at Shiloh, formally petitioned Joshua, Eleazar, and the tribal leaders. Their appeal was not a new request but a solemn reminder of the Lord's specific, ancient command given through Moses: that they be allocated cities for their dwelling and surrounding pasturelands for their livestock. This interaction marks the critical initiation of God's meticulous provision for the tribe consecrated entirely to His service, ensuring their strategic dispersion throughout Israel to fulfill their unique spiritual and judicial ministry.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. Allusion is central, as the Levites' statement directly alludes to the Mosaic Law, specifically the detailed instructions in Numbers 35 regarding the provision of cities and pasturelands for the Levites. This device firmly grounds the immediate narrative in the broader covenant history of Israel and underscores the continuity of God's commands. There is also an element of Foreshadowing, as the request for scattered cities anticipates the Levites' future role as geographically dispersed spiritual guides, teachers, and judicial figures throughout the land, ensuring that every tribe had access to those who understood and taught God's law. Finally, the verse uses Emphasis through the repeated invocation of "The LORD commanded." This repetition underscores the unwavering nature of God's promises and the imperative for Israel to obey them, highlighting the meticulous fulfillment of God's overarching plan for His people.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 21:2 serves as a powerful testament to God's meticulous faithfulness and His detailed provision for those He calls to serve Him. It underscores the profound theological principle that divine calling is always accompanied by divine provision. The Levites, set apart for sacred duties, were not left to fend for themselves but were sustained through a communal effort mandated by God Himself. This act of remembering and acting upon an ancient command highlights the importance of covenant fidelity, not just on God's part, but also on the part of His people. It teaches that God's plans unfold over time, and obedience, even when delayed, is ultimately required. The dispersion of the Levites throughout the land also signifies God's desire for His truth and spiritual guidance to permeate every corner of society, ensuring that all Israel had access to instruction in the Law and opportunities for worship.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 21:2 offers profound lessons for believers today concerning God's unwavering provision, the sacred nature of ministry, and our communal responsibility within the Body of Christ. Just as God meticulously planned for the Levites' sustenance and strategic placement, He continues to provide for those He calls into service, ensuring they have the necessary resources to fulfill their mission. This verse challenges us to consider how we, as the church, actively support those dedicated to full-time spiritual ministry, recognizing their vital role in teaching, guiding, and nurturing the faith of the community. It also reminds us that God's commands, though ancient in their origin, remain eternally relevant and require our active obedience and diligent remembrance. Furthermore, like the Levites who were scattered to influence all Israel, every believer is called to be a spiritual influence in their respective spheres—families, workplaces, communities—living out their faith and sharing God's truth, demonstrating His presence and principles wherever they are placed.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why didn't the Levites receive a tribal land inheritance like the other tribes?
Answer: The Levites were uniquely set apart for sacred service to the Lord, primarily for ministry at the tabernacle and later the temple. Their inheritance was not a territorial portion of the land, but rather the LORD Himself. This distinct status meant they were to be supported by the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, allowing them to dedicate themselves fully to their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor or land management. Their dispersion among all the tribes also ensured that spiritual instruction and priestly service were accessible throughout the entire nation.
What was the significance of Shiloh in this context?
Answer: Shiloh was the central religious and administrative hub for Israel during the period of the judges, serving as the location where the tabernacle was set up after the conquest of Canaan, as recorded in Joshua 18:1. The Levites' petition at Shiloh signifies that their request was made to the highest authorities (Joshua, Eleazar the high priest, and the tribal heads) at the most sacred and authoritative place in Israel. This formal setting lent immense legitimacy and solemnity to their appeal for the fulfillment of God's command.
What does "suburbs" mean in the context of Levitical cities?
Answer: In this context, "suburbs" (Hebrew: migrash) refers specifically to the designated pasturelands surrounding the Levitical cities, not merely residential outskirts. These lands were essential for the Levites' cattle, which provided a means of livelihood and sustenance. Numbers 35:2-5 provides detailed instructions regarding the size and purpose of these pasturelands, emphasizing that they were for the Levites' livestock and not for cultivation, thus ensuring their economic stability while maintaining their focus on spiritual ministry.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous provision for the Levites in Joshua 21:2, ensuring their sustenance and strategic dispersion throughout Israel, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Levites, whose inheritance was the Lord Himself and whose ministry involved mediating between God and His people, powerfully foreshadow Jesus. He is the true and ultimate inheritance of His people, the one who fully embodies the presence of God among humanity as Immanuel. Just as the Levitical cities were scattered to bring spiritual instruction and a reminder of God's law to every corner of Israel, so too are New Covenant believers, empowered by Christ, dispersed throughout the world as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9) to proclaim the excellencies of Him who called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. Christ, the great High Priest, provides for His ministers in the New Covenant, commanding that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living from the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:14), echoing the divine principle of provision for those set apart for His service. Ultimately, the meticulous fulfillment of God's command to Moses concerning the Levites points to the perfect and complete fulfillment of all God's promises in Jesus Christ, who provides for His church and commissions them to go into all the world, making disciples of all nations.