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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 18:8–19.
The priest's service is called a warfare; and who goes a warfare at his own charges? As they were well employed, so they were well provided for, and well paid. None shall serve God for nought. All believers are spiritual priests, and God has promised to take care of them; they shall dwell in the land, and verily they shall be fed, and shall not want any good thing. Godliness has the promise of the life that now is. And from this plentiful provision here made for the priests the apostle infers that it is the duty of Christian churches to maintain their ministers; those that served at the altar lived upon the altar. So those that preach the gospel should live upon the gospel, and live comfortably, Co1 9:13, Co1 9:14. Scandalous maintenance makes scandalous ministers. Now observe, 1. That much of the provision that was made for them arose out of the sacrifices which they themselves were employed to offer. They had the skins of almost all the sacrifices, which they might sell, and they had a considerable share out of the meat-offerings, sin-offerings, etc. Those that had the charge of the offerings had the benefit, Num 18:8. Note, God's work is its own wages, and his service carries its recompence along with it. Even in keeping God's commandments there is great reward. The present pleasures of religion are part of its pay. 2. That they had not only a good table kept for them, but money likewise in their pockets for the redemption of the first-born, and those firstlings of cattle which might not be offered in sacrifice. Thus their maintenance was such as left them altogether disentangled from the affairs of this life; they had no grounds to occupy, no land to till, no vineyards to dress, no cattle to tend, no visible estate to take care of, and yet had a more plentiful income than any other families whatsoever. Thus God ordered it that they might be the more entirely addicted to their ministry, and not diverted from it, nor disturbed in it, by any worldly care or business (the ministry requires a whole man); and that they might be examples of living by faith, not only in God's providence, but in his ordinance. They lived from hand to mouth, that they might learn to take no thought for the morrow; sufficient for the day would be the provision thereof: and they had no estates to leave their children, that they might by faith leave their children, that they might by faith leave them to the care of that God who had fed them all their lives long. 3. Of the provision that was made for their tables some is said to be most holy (Num 18:9, Num 18:10), which was to be eaten by the priests themselves, and in the court of the tabernacle only; but other perquisites were less holy, of which their families might eat, at their own houses, provided they were clean, Num 18:11-13. See Lev 21:10, etc. 4. It is commanded that the best of the oil, and the best of the wine and wheat, should be offered for the first-fruits unto the Lord, which the priest were to have, Num 18:12. Note, We must always serve and honour God with the best we have, for he is the best, and best deserves it; he is the first, and therefore must have the first ripe. Those that think to save charges by putting God off with the refuse do but deceive themselves, for God is not mocked. 5. All this is given to the priests by reason of the anointing, Num 18:8. It was not for the sake of their personal merits above other Israelites that they had these tributes paid to them, be it known unto them; but purely for the sake of the office to which they were anointed. Thus all the comforts that are given to the Lord's people are given them by reason of the anointing which they have received. It is said to be given them by an ordinance for ever (Num 18:8), and it is a covenant of salt for ever, Num 18:19. As long as the priesthood should continue this should continue to be the maintenance of it, that this lamp might not go out for want of oil to keep it burning. Thus provision is made that a gospel ministry should continue till Christ comes, by an ordinance for ever. Lo, I am with you (that is their maintenance and support) always, even to the end of the world. Thanks be to the Redeemer, it is the word which he has commanded to a thousand generations.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
A covenant of salt: It is a proverbial expression, signifying a covenant not to be altered or corrupted; as salt is used to keep things from corruption; a covenant perpetual, like that by which it was appointed, that salt should be used in every sacrifice. Lev. 2.
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Summary
Numbers 18:19 serves as a foundational declaration of divine provision and an enduring covenant established for the Aaronic priesthood. It meticulously details how the "heave offerings"—sacred portions of the Israelites' gifts to the LORD—are designated as the perpetual inheritance for Aaron and his descendants, including his sons and daughters. This verse not only secures the livelihood of those dedicated to Tabernacle service but also underscores the immutable and enduring nature of God's commitment to His chosen ministers, sealed by the powerful symbol of a "covenant of salt."
Context
Literary Context
Numbers 18 is a pivotal chapter within the book, meticulously delineating the distinct responsibilities and privileges of the Levites and the Aaronic priesthood. Following the severe challenges to priestly authority, particularly Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16 and the divine vindication of Aaron's rod in Numbers 17, this chapter re-establishes and reinforces the unique, divinely appointed role of Aaron's lineage. Since the tribe of Levi, including the priests, received no territorial inheritance in the land, God explicitly ordained a system of divine provision through the offerings of the other tribes. Verse 19 specifically addresses the "heave offerings" (terumah) as a perpetual statute, ensuring the priests' sustenance and enabling their full devotion to sacred duties without worldly distraction, thus solidifying their unique status and God's unwavering support for their consecrated service.
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient Israelite society was primarily agrarian, and land ownership was central to tribal identity and economic stability. The Levites, however, were set apart for service to the LORD and were not allotted a tribal inheritance of land, as stated in Numbers 18:20. Their sustenance, therefore, came directly from the offerings and tithes of the other tribes. The "heave offering" (terumah) was a specific portion of agricultural produce or other offerings "lifted up" or set apart for God, which was then given to the priests. The phrase "covenant of salt" held deep significance in the ancient Near East. Salt, known for its preservative qualities, symbolized permanence, loyalty, and incorruptibility. To "eat salt" with someone signified a binding, unbreakable bond of friendship or alliance, often sealed by a shared meal. Thus, God's declaration of a "covenant of salt" underscored the immutable, eternal, and incorruptible nature of His promise to the Aaronic priesthood.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Numbers and the Pentateuch. It highlights Divine Provision for Ministry, demonstrating God's meticulous care for those consecrated to His service, ensuring their livelihood so they could focus entirely on their sacred duties, a principle echoed in Deuteronomy 14:27-29 and later affirmed for New Testament ministers in 1 Corinthians 9:13-14. The repeated phrase "for ever" and the declaration of a "covenant of salt" emphasize the Perpetual and Binding Nature of God's Covenants, signifying an unbreakable, immutable promise from God to the priestly line, as seen also in 2 Chronicles 13:5. Furthermore, the description of offerings as "holy things" reinforces the theme of Holiness and Consecration, underscoring the sacredness of both the gifts presented to the LORD and the consecrated calling of the priests who ministered in His presence, aligning with the commands in Leviticus 2:13. Finally, the inclusion of "thy sons and thy daughters with thee" and "thy seed with thee" establishes the Hereditary Nature of the Aaronic Priesthood and its associated provisions, crucial for the continuity of Israelite worship until the advent of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, as discussed in Hebrews 7.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H8641) refers to a portion of an offering, often agricultural produce or other sacred gifts, that was "lifted up" or separated from the main bulk and presented to the LORD. It signifies a dedicated portion, acknowledging God's ultimate ownership of all things and serving as a means of support for the priests and Levites. The act of "heaving" indicated a setting apart for sacred use, as it is derived from a root (H7311, rûwm) meaning "to be high" or "to raise."
This powerful idiom (H1285, H4417) signifies an unbreakable, enduring, and incorruptible agreement. Salt (H4417), as a preservative (from H4417, mâlach, "to salt"), symbolized permanence and purity. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing salt or a "salt covenant" indicated a deep, lasting bond of loyalty and fidelity, often associated with a shared meal that sealed the agreement. When God declares this a "covenant of salt," He emphasizes the immutable and eternal nature of His promise to provide for and sustain the Aaronic priesthood.
This word (H5769) denotes an indefinite duration, often extending to perpetuity or eternity in a covenantal context. It properly means "concealed" or "the vanishing point," implying a time beyond human comprehension, either past or future. Its repetition in the verse ("by a statute for ever," "a covenant of salt for ever") powerfully reinforces the permanence and unchanging nature of God's decree regarding the priestly provisions. It signifies that this arrangement is not temporary but an enduring divine ordinance, binding for all generations of the Aaronic line.
Verse Breakdown
"All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the LORD"
This clause identifies the source and nature of the provision. The "heave offerings" are specific, consecrated portions ("holy things," H6944, qôdesh) that the Israelites (H3478, Yisrâʼêl) bring as a direct act of worship and obedience to God (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh). This highlights that the priests' sustenance comes ultimately from the LORD Himself, channeled through the obedient giving of His people.
"have I given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee"
This emphasizes God's direct agency ("have I given," H5414, nâthan) in establishing this provision. The beneficiaries are explicitly Aaron ("thee") and his entire household, including his "sons" (H1121, bên) and "daughters" (H1323, bath). While only male descendants served as priests, the daughters and other family members were sustained by these offerings, underscoring the holistic provision for the priestly family unit.
"by a statute for ever: it [is] a covenant of salt for ever before the LORD unto thee and to thy seed with thee."
This final clause underscores the binding, immutable, and perpetual nature of the divine promise. It is a "statute" (H2706, chôq) "for ever" (H5769, ‘ôwlām), meaning an enduring decree. The declaration that it is a "covenant" (H1285, bᵉrîyth) "of salt" (H4417, melach) "for ever" (H5769, ‘ôwlām) "before the LORD" (H6440, pânîym H3068, Yᵉhôvâh) elevates this provision to the highest level of divine commitment, signifying an unbreakable, incorruptible, and eternally binding agreement, witnessed and guaranteed by God Himself, extending to all future generations ("thy seed," H2233, zeraʻ).
Literary Devices
Numbers 18:19 employs several potent Literary Devices to convey its message of divine commitment. The most prominent is Symbolism, particularly through the phrase "covenant of salt." Salt, universally recognized for its preservative qualities, serves as a powerful symbol of permanence, incorruptibility, and lasting fidelity. By associating His covenant with salt, God communicates the unbreakable and eternal nature of His promise to the Aaronic priesthood. The verse also utilizes Repetition with the phrase "for ever," appearing twice. This emphatic repetition serves to underscore the enduring and perpetual nature of the statute and the covenant, leaving no doubt about its lasting validity. Furthermore, the direct declaration, "have I given thee," exemplifies Divine Fiat, highlighting God's sovereign authority and His direct, intentional action in establishing this provision. This reinforces the divine origin and unchallengeable nature of the priestly support system.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 18:19 is a cornerstone text for understanding God's faithfulness, the nature of covenant, and the principle of supporting those in ministry. It reveals a God who meticulously provides for those consecrated to His service, ensuring their livelihood so they can fully dedicate themselves to spiritual duties. This divine provision underscores the sacredness of ministry and the community's responsibility to uphold it. The "covenant of salt" signifies an unbreakable bond, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His promises and His chosen instruments. This principle of enduring divine support and the community's role in sustaining ministry transcends the Old Testament, finding continuity and fulfillment in the New Covenant.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 18:19 offers profound insights for believers today, extending beyond the literal provisions for the ancient priesthood. It powerfully demonstrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and covenants. What God establishes "for ever" is truly eternal and trustworthy, providing immense comfort and assurance in a changing world. This verse underpins the enduring biblical principle of supporting those who minister in the Lord's work. Just as the ancient Israelite community supported the priests through their offerings, there is a spiritual imperative for believers to provide for those who dedicate their lives to ministry, allowing them to focus on teaching, preaching, and serving without undue financial burden. This ensures the flourishing of the church and the spread of the Gospel. Moreover, as a "covenant of salt," it reminds us of the sacredness of God's arrangements and His meticulous care for His people, particularly those in dedicated service, underscoring that His provisions are as enduring and reliable as His character. We are called to trust in His perpetual care and to participate in His economy of grace by supporting His work.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is a "heave offering" and why was it significant?
A "heave offering" (Hebrew: terumah) was a specific portion of agricultural produce, livestock, or other items that was "lifted up" or set apart from the main harvest or flock and presented to the LORD. It was significant for several reasons: first, it acknowledged God's ultimate ownership of all things and was an act of worship and obedience. Second, these offerings served as the primary means of sustenance for the Aaronic priests and Levites, who, unlike the other tribes, received no territorial land inheritance in Israel (as seen in Numbers 18:20). By providing for the priests through these offerings, the community enabled them to devote themselves fully to their sacred duties in the Tabernacle, ensuring the continuity of worship and the sacrificial system.
Why is it called a "covenant of salt"?
The phrase "covenant of salt" (Hebrew: bĕrît melah) signifies an unbreakable, enduring, and incorruptible agreement. In the ancient Near East, salt was highly valued for its preservative qualities, preventing decay and corruption. Therefore, it became a powerful symbol of permanence and purity. To "eat salt" with someone or establish a "covenant of salt" implied a deep, lasting bond of loyalty and fidelity, often sealed by a shared meal. When God declares this provision for the priesthood a "covenant of salt," as also seen in 2 Chronicles 13:5 regarding the Davidic kingship, He emphasizes the immutable, eternal, and incorruptible nature of His promise. It signifies an agreement that is as lasting and reliable as salt itself, guaranteed by God's own unwavering character.
Did this covenant apply to the daughters of Aaron?
Yes, Numbers 18:19 explicitly states, "have I given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee." This indicates that the provision of the heave offerings was for the entire household of Aaron, encompassing his sons and daughters, and indeed, "to thy seed with thee." While priestly service and duties were exclusively for the male descendants of Aaron, the sustenance derived from these offerings was intended to support the entire priestly family. This ensured that the entire household connected to the consecrated priestly line was provided for, allowing the male priests to focus on their sacred responsibilities without concern for their family's daily needs.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 18:19, with its declaration of an eternal "covenant of salt" for the Aaronic priesthood, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The temporary, hereditary priesthood of Aaron, sustained by the offerings of Israel, foreshadowed the coming of the one true High Priest, Jesus, who is "a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek" (Hebrews 7:17). Unlike the Aaronic priests who died and needed successors, Christ holds His priesthood permanently because He lives forever (Hebrews 7:23-24). His sacrifice was not a repeated "heave offering" of animals, but a singular, perfect, and eternal offering of Himself, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, which fully and finally atoned for sin (Hebrews 9:12). The "covenant of salt" points to an unbreakable, eternal covenant, which is fully realized in the New Covenant established through Christ's blood. This new covenant is not merely a statute but an eternal reality, guaranteeing access to God and the perpetual provision of His grace for all who believe. Through Christ, believers are made part of a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), sustained not by earthly offerings, but by the eternal, incorruptible grace and spiritual provision of God through His Son.