Numbers 18:29

Numbers 18:29 (KJV) provides specific instructions regarding the offerings the Levites were to give to the priests. This verse is crucial for understanding the intricate system of support for the priestly class in ancient Israel and the enduring biblical principle of giving God the best.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is found within a detailed section of the Book of Numbers (Numbers chapter 18) that outlines the roles, responsibilities, and provisions for the Levites and priests. The Levites were divinely appointed for service in the tabernacle and were not allotted tribal land as an inheritance (Numbers 18:20). Instead, they were to receive a tithe (one-tenth) of all the produce and livestock from the other Israelite tribes (Numbers 18:21, Numbers 18:24). Numbers 18:29 then specifies that the Levites, in turn, were required to offer a "tithe of the tithe" from what they received to the priests (the descendants of Aaron) as their own contribution to the LORD. This system ensured that even those who served God directly also participated in the act of giving and acknowledged God's ultimate ownership of all resources.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Principle of the "Best": The phrase "of all the best thereof" profoundly emphasizes that God requires the finest and most excellent portion of what we possess, not merely leftovers or what is convenient. This reflects a heart of true worship and honor for the Almighty. This concept of giving the best is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, such as in Proverbs 3:9, which speaks of honoring the LORD with your firstfruits.
• Consecration and Holiness: The "hallowed part" signifies that this portion was set apart for sacred use. It was consecrated to the LORD, making it holy and distinct from common use. This highlights the holiness of God and the sacredness of His service, demanding a special reverence for what belongs to Him.
• Support for Ministry: This divine system ensured the financial and material support of the priests, who had no tribal land inheritance and were wholly dedicated to their duties in the tabernacle. It illustrates God's provision for those who serve Him full-time, a principle echoed in the New Testament regarding the support of ministers (1 Corinthians 9:14).
• Universal Obligation to Give: Even the Levites, who received tithes from the people, were not exempt from giving. This underscores the universal biblical principle that all believers are called to give back to God from what He has graciously provided, demonstrating dependence and gratitude.

Linguistic Insights

The term "heave offering" (Hebrew: terumah) refers to a portion lifted or separated from the rest as an offering to God. It signifies a contribution or a gift, often presented by being "lifted up" or "heaved" before the LORD as a gesture of presentation. The concept of "hallowed" (Hebrew: qodesh) points to something being set apart, consecrated, or made holy for God's exclusive use, reflecting His own holy nature and the sacredness of His service.

Practical Application

While the specific system of tithes and heave offerings in Numbers 18:29 pertains to the Old Covenant's ceremonial law, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant for believers today. We are called to honor God with our possessions and resources, giving generously and with a willing heart. This verse reminds us to give our "best" to the Lord, whether in our finances, time, talents, or efforts, recognizing that everything we have is ultimately from Him (1 Chronicles 29:14). It also reinforces the biblical principle of supporting those who minister the Word and serve the church (Galatians 6:6). Our giving should be an act of worship, reflecting our gratitude and trust in God's provision, much like the Levites' "heave offering" was a sacred act of devotion.