TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 18:20–32. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is a further account of the provision that was made both for the Levites and for the priests, out of the country.
I.They must have no inheritance in the land; only cities to dwell in were afterwards allowed them, but no ground to occupy:
Thou shalt not have any part among them, Num 18:20. It is repeated again Num 18:23, and again Num 18:24, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance, either by purchase or descent. God would have them comfortably provided for, but would not have their families over-rich, lest they should think themselves above that work which their wages supposed and obliged them constantly to attend upon. As Israel was a peculiar people, and not to be numbered among the nations, so Levi was a peculiar tribe, and not to be settled as the rest of the tribes, but in all respects distinguished from them. A good reason is given why they must have no inheritance in the land, for, says God, I am thy part, and thy inheritance. Note, Those that have God for their inheritance and their portion for ever ought to look with a holy contempt and indifference upon the inheritances of this world, and not covet their portion in it. "The Lord is my portion, therefore will I hope in him, and not depend upon any thing I have on this earth," Lam 3:24. The Levites shall have no inheritance, and yet they shall live very comfortably and plentifully - to teach us that Providence has various ways of supporting those that live in a dependence upon it; the fowls reap not, and yet are fed, the lilies spin not, and yet are clothed, the Levites have no inheritance in Israel, and yet live better than any other tribe. The repetition of that caution, that no Israelite should approach the tabernacle, comes in suitable, though somewhat abruptly, Num 18:22. It seems set in opposition to that order concerning the priests and Levites that they should have no inheritance in Israel, to show how God dispenses his favours variously. The Levites have the honour of attending the tabernacle, which is denied the Israelites; but then the Israelites have the honour of inheritances in Canaan, which is denied the Levites; thus each is kept from either envying or despising the other, and both have reason to rejoice in their lot. The Israelites must not come nigh the tabernacle, but then the Levites must have no inheritance in the land; if ministers expect that people should keep in their sphere, and not intermeddle with sacred offices, let them keep in theirs, and not entangle themselves in secular affairs.
II.But they must both have tithes of the land.
Besides the first-fruits which were appropriated to the priests, which, the Jews say, were to be a fiftieth part, or at least a sixtieth, the tithe also was appropriated.
1.The Levites had the tithes of the people's increase (Num 18:21): I have given (whose the whole is) all the tenths in Israel, of all the productions of the land, to the children of Levi, to be divided among them in just proportions, for their service which they serve. The Levites were the smallest tribe of the twelve, and yet, besides all other advantages, they had a tenth part of the yearly profits, without the trouble and expense of ploughing and sowing; such care did God take of those that were devoted to his service; not only that they might be well maintained, but that they might be honoured with a national acknowledgment of the good services they did to the public, and owned as God's agents and receivers; for that which was a heave-offering, or an offering lifted heavenward unto the Lord, was by him consigned to the Levites.
2.The priests had the tenths of the Levites' tithes settled upon them. The order for this Moses is directed to give to the Levites, whom God would have to pay it with cheerfulness, rather than the priests to demand it with authority: Speak to the Levites that it be offered by them, rather than levied upon them. Now observe,
(1.)The Levites were to give God his dues out of their tithes, as well as the Israelites out of their increase. They were God's tenants, and rent was expected from them, nor were they exempted by their office. Thus now, ministers must be charitable out of what they receive; and the more freely they have received the more freely they must give, and be examples of liberality. You shall offer a heave-offering to the Lord, Num 18:26. Those that are employed to assist the devotions of others must be sure to pay their own, as a heave-offering to the Lord. Prayers and praises lifted up to God, or rather the heart lifted up in them, are now our heave-offerings. This (says God) shall be reckoned to you as though it were the corn of the threshing-floor; that is, though it was not the fruit of their ground, nor of their own labour, as the tithes of other Israelites were, yet being of such as they had it should be accepted, to the sanctifying of all the rest.
(2.)This was to be given to Aaron the priest (Num 18:28), and to his successors the high priests, to be divided and disposed of in such proportions as they should think fit among the inferior priests. Most of the profits of the priests' office, which were appointed in the former part of the chapter, arising from the sacrifices, those priests had the benefit of who constantly attended at the altar; but, forasmuch as there were many priests employed in the country to teach and rule, those tithes taken by the Levites, it is probable, were directed by the high priest for their maintenance. It is the probable conjecture of the learned bishop Patrick that the tenth of this last tenth was reserved for the high priest himself, to support his state and dignity; for otherwise we read not of any peculiar provision made for him.
(3.)When the Levites had thus paid the tenth of their income, as a heave-offering to the Lord, they had themselves the comfortable enjoyment of the other nine parts (Num 18:30): "When you have thus heaved the best from it (for still God's part must be the best) then you shall eat the rest, not as a holy thing, but with the same freedom that the other Israelites eat their part with, in every place, you and your households," Num 18:31. See here what is the way to have the comfort of all our worldly possessions so as to bear no sin by reason of them, as it follows, Num 18:32.
[1.]We must be sure that what we have be got honestly and in the service of God. It is your reward for your service; that meat is the best eating that is first earned; but, if any will not work, neither shall he eat, Th2 3:10. And that seems to be spoken of as having a particular comfort and satisfaction in it which is the reward of faithful service done in the tabernacle of the congregation.
[2.]We must be sure that God has his dues out of it. Then we have the comfort of our substance when we have honoured the Lord with it. The you shall bear no sin by reason of it, when you have heaved the best from it. This intimates that we must never feed ourselves without fear, lest our table become a snare, and we bear sin by reason of it; and that therefore we are concerned to give alms of such things as we have, that all may be clean and comfortable to us.
Historical interpretation
Two Centuries of Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
Indeed, do you wish to know what the difference is between the priests of God and the priests of Pharaoh? Pharaoh grants lands to his priests. The Lord, on the other hand, does not grant his priests a portion in the land but says to them, “I am your portion.” You therefore who read these words, observe all the priests of the Lord and notice what difference there is between the priests, lest perhaps they who have a portion in the land and have time for earthly cares and pursuits may appear not so much to be priests of the Lord as priests of Pharaoh. For it is Pharaoh who wishes his priests to have possessions of lands and to work at the cultivation of the soil not of the soul, to give attention to the fields and not to the law. But let us hear what Christ our Lord admonishes his priests: “He who has not renounced all he possesses,” he says, “cannot be my disciple.”
For all this people had twelve tribes after the number of the twelve sons of Jacob. What we call tribes are as it were distinct houses and congregations of people. This people, I say, had twelve tribes, out of which twelve tribes one tribe was Judah, out of which came the kings. There was another tribe, Levi, out of which came the priests. To the priests serving the temple no land was allotted. So it was necessary that among twelve tribes all the land of promise should be shared. Having separated one tribe of higher dignity, the tribe of Levi, which was of the priests, there would have remained eleven, unless by the adoption of the two sons of Joseph the number twelve were completed.
Continue studying Numbers 18:20 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
Numbers 18:20 serves as a foundational declaration from the LORD to Aaron, establishing the unique and profoundly spiritual provision for the Levitical priesthood. It explicitly states that, unlike the other tribes of Israel who would receive territorial allotments, Aaron and his descendants would possess no land inheritance. Instead, the LORD Himself emphatically declares, "I am thy part and thine inheritance," signifying a radical divine commitment to sustain those consecrated for sacred service and elevating a spiritual relationship with God above all material possessions.
Context
Literary Context
Numbers 18:20 is strategically positioned within a larger discourse (Numbers 18:1-32) that meticulously delineates the distinct responsibilities and comprehensive provisions for the priests (Aaron and his sons) and the Levites. This chapter immediately follows the dramatic and challenging events of Korah's rebellion (Numbers 16), which directly questioned Aaron's divinely appointed priestly authority, and God's subsequent miraculous vindication of Aaron through the budding of his staff (Numbers 17). Therefore, chapter 18 functions as a divine reaffirmation of the unique roles, sacred duties, and the specific means of sustenance for the priesthood. Verses 1-7 detail the solemn duties and inherent dangers of the priestly office, while verses 8-19 specify the priests' designated portions from the various offerings brought by the people. Verse 20 marks a pivotal transition, explicitly stating the priests' non-possession of land, directly preceding the detailed explanation of the Levites' tithes as their primary provision (Numbers 18:21-24) and their own tithe to the priests (Numbers 18:25-32).
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, land ownership was not merely an economic asset but the very bedrock of tribal identity, social status, and familial security. The allocation of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes was a central tenet of their covenant inheritance and the foundation of their agrarian economy. Each family held a perpetual claim to their ancestral plot, which, under Mosaic Law, could not be permanently alienated or sold (Leviticus 25:23-28). Against this deeply ingrained cultural backdrop, the divine command for the Levites, including the priestly line of Aaron, to have no territorial inheritance was truly revolutionary. This unique arrangement meant they were entirely dependent on God's direct provision, channeled through the offerings and tithes of the other tribes. This distinct status underscored their complete separation for sacred service, freeing them from agricultural pursuits, land disputes, and the common economic concerns of the other tribes, thereby enabling their full dedication to the Tabernacle/Temple ministry, the teaching of the Law, and their vital role as mediators between God and His people.
Key Themes
Numbers 18:20 profoundly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of Divine Provision, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to caring for those He calls into dedicated service. Their sustenance is not derived from worldly means or human enterprise but directly from God's ordained system of offerings and tithes. Secondly, it highlights Separation for Sacred Service. By being explicitly excluded from a land inheritance, the priests were both symbolically and practically set apart from the common concerns and economic structures of the other tribes. This allowed for their exclusive focus on their spiritual duties, which included maintaining the Tabernacle, offering sacrifices, and instructing the people in God's Law (Leviticus 10:11; Deuteronomy 33:10). Finally, and perhaps most profoundly, the verse establishes the central theme of God as the Ultimate Inheritance. This declaration elevates the spiritual relationship with the LORD above any material possession, positing God Himself as the most valuable, satisfying, and enduring "portion" for His consecrated servants. This profound concept resonates deeply throughout the Psalms, as beautifully articulated in Psalm 16:5 and Psalm 73:26.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word (H2506) is derived from a root meaning "to divide" and typically denotes a "portion," "share," or "allotment." It often refers to a share of spoils, food, or land. In the context of Numbers 18:20, "part" signifies Aaron's allocated share or lot among the children of Israel. By declaring "I am thy part," the LORD asserts Himself as the direct, exclusive, and supremely sufficient source of Aaron's sustenance, entitlement, and belonging, replacing any earthly division of goods or territory. This emphasizes God's immediate, personal, and active involvement in providing for His consecrated servants.
The Hebrew term (H5159) is a robust legal and theological word, fundamentally meaning "inheritance," "possession," or "hereditary property." It most commonly refers to land passed down through generations, forming the very basis of tribal and family identity, security, and continuity in ancient Israel. Its application here to God Himself is a striking and profound theological metaphor. It signifies that God is not merely a provider of sustenance, but the very essence of Aaron's enduring legacy, security, and ultimate possession. This elevates the spiritual relationship with God above all material and temporal inheritances, establishing Him as the ultimate, eternal source of blessing, identity, and belonging for His priestly line.
Verse Breakdown
"And the LORD spake unto Aaron,"
This opening clause establishes the divine origin and authoritative nature of the pronouncement. This is not a human decree, a tribal agreement, or a suggestion, but a direct, personal word from Yahweh (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh'), the covenant God of Israel, to His chosen high priest (H175, ʼAhărôwn'). It underscores the sacred, non-negotiable, and eternally binding nature of the subsequent instructions and promises.
"Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land,"
This is the clear, definitive negative command, distinguishing Aaron and his priestly descendants from the other eleven tribes of Israel (H3478, Yisrâʼêl'). While the other tribes would receive specific territorial allotments (H776, ʼerets') in Canaan, the priests would receive none (H5157, nâchal'). This exclusion was not a deprivation or punishment but a purposeful act of divine separation, ensuring their undivided devotion to sacred duties and preventing entanglement in land-based economics, agricultural pursuits, or political disputes.
"neither shalt thou have any part among them:"
This clause powerfully reinforces the previous statement, clarifying that not only would Aaron not receive a major tribal land inheritance, but he would also not receive any smaller "part" (H2506, chêleq') or share of the land or its produce in the same manner as the other tribes. This reiterates their distinct status (H8432, tâvek', "among") and their complete reliance on an alternative, divinely ordained system of provision, setting them apart in a unique way.
"I [am] thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel."
This is the profound and transformative positive declaration that converts the apparent deprivation into an unparalleled privilege. The LORD Himself (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh') declares He is Aaron's "part" (H2506, chêleq') and "inheritance" (H5159, nachălâh'). This signifies that God is the direct, personal, and ultimate source of their sustenance, their security, their identity, and their supreme wealth. It establishes an intimate, exclusive, and supremely valuable relationship where God's very being, His faithfulness, and His covenant promises serve as their ultimate possession and enduring legacy, far surpassing any earthly estate or material gain.
Literary Devices
Numbers 18:20 powerfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is Contrast, where the earthly inheritance of land, typically the most valuable and foundational possession in ancient Israel, is sharply juxtaposed with the divine inheritance of God Himself. This stark opposition highlights the unique, set-apart status of the priesthood and decisively elevates the spiritual realm above the material. The verse also utilizes Metaphor, as God is described as Aaron's "part" and "inheritance." This is not a literal physical portion or property, but a metaphorical representation of God's complete sufficiency, active provision, intimate relationship, and enduring presence with His chosen servants. Furthermore, the direct, first-person divine declaration, "I am thy part and thine inheritance," functions as a powerful Divine Assertion or Covenant Language, emphasizing God's sovereign will, His personal commitment, and His unwavering faithfulness to the covenant relationship with Aaron and his priestly line. This direct address imbues the statement with absolute authority and an unshakeable promise.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 18:20 establishes a foundational and enduring theological principle: that God Himself is the ultimate source of security, provision, and true wealth for His people, particularly for those consecrated to His service. This principle transcends the specific Levitical context, speaking to the heart of absolute dependence on God. It profoundly teaches that true fulfillment, lasting security, and an enduring inheritance are not found in material possessions, earthly status, or human achievements, but solely in a deep, personal, and abiding relationship with the Creator. This verse challenges the pervasive human tendency to seek security and identity in what can be seen, accumulated, and held, powerfully redirecting focus to the invisible, eternal, and all-sufficient God. It underscores the profound truth that spiritual blessing and divine presence are infinitely more valuable and satisfying than any temporal gain, thereby setting a timeless precedent for prioritizing God's will, His presence, and His kingdom above all else.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 18:20, while rooted in the specific context of the Levitical priesthood, carries profound and timeless implications for all believers today. It serves as a powerful call to critically re-evaluate where we place our ultimate trust, derive our sense of security, and define our identity. In a world that relentlessly pressures us to accumulate wealth, status, and possessions as markers of success and happiness, this verse stands as a radical counter-cultural declaration, reminding us that our greatest treasure is not found in what we own but in who owns us—the LORD Himself. For those called to full-time ministry or dedicated service, it provides a powerful anchor, encouraging complete reliance on God's provision, trusting that He will faithfully sustain those dedicated to His work, even when traditional forms of income or security seem absent. For every believer, it encourages a radical shift in perspective: to prioritize our relationship with God, His kingdom, and His righteousness above all else, knowing that in Him, we have an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept securely in heaven (1 Peter 1:4). Our contentment, joy, and peace should not be tied to our material circumstances or what we possess, but to the profound and liberating reality that God is our "part" and our "inheritance"—our all-sufficient portion, now and forever.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse mean Christians should not own land or pursue wealth?
No, Numbers 18:20 does not prohibit Christians from owning land, pursuing legitimate economic activities, or being financially responsible. This verse describes a specific, unique covenant arrangement for the Levitical priesthood in Old Testament Israel, setting them apart for exclusive Tabernacle/Temple service. While the literal application of not owning land was unique to them, the underlying spiritual principle remains profoundly relevant for all believers: our ultimate security, identity, and inheritance are found in God, not in material possessions. We are called to be good stewards of what God entrusts to us, using our resources for His glory and the good of others, but our hearts should not be enslaved by wealth or the pursuit of it. As Jesus taught, we should seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all our legitimate needs will be met. The verse encourages a spiritual posture where God is our primary treasure and source of fulfillment, regardless of our earthly circumstances or possessions.
How did the Levites actually live without owning land?
The Levites, including the priestly line of Aaron, were sustained through a unique and comprehensive system of divine provision meticulously outlined in the Mosaic Law. Their "inheritance" came directly from the offerings and tithes brought by the other tribes to the LORD, effectively making God their direct provider. Specifically, they received:
This elaborate and divinely ordained system ensured that the Levites, who ministered on behalf of all Israel and had no time for agricultural pursuits, were adequately provided for, allowing them to focus entirely on their sacred duties without worldly distractions.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 18:20 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Aaron and his descendants were set apart for earthly Tabernacle service and sustained by divine provision, their unique status powerfully foreshadowed the spiritual reality of the New Covenant. Jesus is the ultimate High Priest, fulfilling and infinitely superseding the Levitical priesthood through His perfect, once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 7:23-28). He is the one who truly has no earthly "inheritance" in the sense of a material kingdom, for His kingdom is emphatically declared to be "not of this world" (John 18:36). Yet, through Him, all believers are brought into a new covenant reality, becoming a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to spiritual service and worship. Our "inheritance" is no longer a plot of land in Canaan but a spiritual, eternal reality found solely in Christ. Through His death, resurrection, and ascension, we are granted an inheritance that is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). Christ Himself is our ultimate "part" and "inheritance," far surpassing any earthly possession or temporal security. He is our righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30), and in Him, we are made heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). The radical dependence of the Levitical priests on God for their sustenance becomes the spiritual reality for all who are united to Christ by faith: our very life, security, identity, and eternal hope are found in Him alone, for He is our all-sufficient portion, our supreme treasure, both now and forevermore (Philippians 3:8-9).