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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 18:20–32. 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.
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Summary
Numbers 18:31 culminates a detailed divine decree concerning the sustenance of the Levites and priests, who, unlike the other Israelite tribes, received no territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. This verse explicitly grants them and their entire households the right to consume the holy portions designated for them, affirming that this provision constitutes their rightful compensation for their dedicated, full-time service within the Tabernacle, and emphasizing its nature as daily sustenance consumable in any location.
Context
Literary Context
Numbers chapter 18 meticulously outlines the distinct roles, responsibilities, and divinely ordained support system for the Aaronic priesthood and the Levites. This chapter immediately follows the severe rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram (see Numbers 16) and the miraculous confirmation of Aaron's priesthood through the budding of his rod (see Numbers 17). These events unequivocally affirmed God's exclusive choice of Aaron's lineage for the priesthood and the Levites for sanctuary service. Having established their consecrated status and duties—which included guarding the sanctuary, transporting its components, and assisting the priests—the text then addresses their means of livelihood. Since they were set apart from agricultural and land-based pursuits, God ordained that their sustenance would come directly from the offerings and tithes of the other Israelite tribes. Numbers 18:31 specifically refers to the portion of the tithes that the Levites received from the people (as outlined in Numbers 18:21) and then, in turn, tithed to the priests (as per Numbers 18:26-28). The permission to eat this portion "in every place" is crucial, distinguishing this particular provision from other highly sacred offerings that were restricted to consumption within the Tabernacle precincts, thereby underscoring its nature as common, daily sustenance for the priestly and Levitical families.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israelite society, land inheritance was paramount, serving as the foundation for tribal identity, economic stability, and social standing. Each of the twelve tribes, with the unique exception of Levi, received a designated portion of the Promised Land as their perpetual inheritance. The Levites, however, were uniquely consecrated to the Lord, serving as intermediaries between God and the people, performing the sacred duties associated with the Tabernacle. This divine separation meant they would not engage in farming, animal husbandry, or other land-based economic activities. Consequently, God established an alternative, divinely mandated economic model for their support, ensuring that their full-time dedication to spiritual service would not be hindered by worldly concerns. Their sustenance came directly from the tithes and offerings of the people, which were considered God's portion. This system underscored God's meticulous care for His servants and the community's responsibility to uphold those dedicated to spiritual leadership and worship, a concept deeply embedded in the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This arrangement ensured that the Levites were wholly dependent on God's provision through the faithfulness of the people, reinforcing their distinct role.
Key Themes
Numbers 18:31 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Provision for Ministry, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to sustain those He calls into full-time service. It establishes a foundational principle that those consecrated to sacred duties should be supported by the community they serve, enabling them to focus entirely on their divine calling without distraction. This verse also highlights the theme of Holiness and Separation, as the Levites' unique economic model underscores their distinct status and separation for God's purposes. Their lack of land inheritance and reliance on offerings emphasized their complete dependence on the Lord, setting them apart for sacred duties. Furthermore, the verse touches upon Covenant Loyalty and Reciprocity, illustrating that as the people fulfilled their covenant obligations by bringing their tithes and offerings, God, in turn, ensured the well-being of His ministers. This reciprocal relationship maintained the spiritual health of the nation, as the Levites' service facilitated the people's access to God and the maintenance of proper worship. The concept of "reward" for service also foreshadows the New Testament principle that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel, as seen in 1 Corinthians 9:14.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H7939) signifies more than just a gift or charity; it denotes a rightful compensation, wages, or recompense for labor. In this context, it emphasizes that the provision for the Levites and priests was not an act of benevolence but a divinely ordained right, a just return for their exclusive and dedicated service in the Tabernacle. It underscores the value God places on their work, viewing it as a legitimate and worthy occupation deserving of full support.
This word (H5656) encompasses the full scope of their duties, including the laborious and often dangerous work of guarding the sanctuary, transporting its components, and assisting the priests in their sacred rituals. It highlights the demanding nature of their consecrated work, which involved significant responsibility and physical exertion, and for which this provision was given. It is a term indicating dedicated labor or work, often in a religious or cultic context.
This word (H168) refers to a tent, specifically the sacred "tent of meeting" or Tabernacle. It emphasizes the central role of this portable sanctuary as the divinely appointed place where God met with His people. It was the focal point of Israelite worship and the specific location where the Levites and priests performed their sacred duties, directly linking their provision to the sanctity and importance of their work in this holy place, which was also known as the "tent of congregation" (H4150, môwʻêd, meaning an appointed place or assembly).
Verse Breakdown
"And ye shall eat it in every place"
This clause refers to the holy portions, specifically the tithes and offerings designated for the Levites and priests. The phrase "in every place" (H4725, mâqôwm) is crucial, indicating that, unlike some other highly sanctified offerings that could only be consumed within the Tabernacle courts, this particular provision could be eaten in their homes, villages, or wherever they resided. This signifies its nature as daily, common sustenance for their livelihood, providing practical flexibility for their domestic needs.
"ye and your households"
This explicitly extends the permission to consume these holy portions beyond the individual Levite or priest to include their entire families—wives, children, and servants (H1004, bayith). This highlights God's comprehensive provision, acknowledging the practical needs of the minister's entire domestic unit and ensuring their well-being as they served, demonstrating God's holistic care.
"for it [is] your reward for your service"
This part of the verse establishes the theological and legal basis for their provision. It is not a charitable handout but a divinely mandated "reward" (H7939, śākār) or compensation for their dedicated, full-time "service" (H5656, ‘ăḇôdâh) to the Lord. The preposition "for" (H2500, chêleph) denotes exchange or instead of, reinforcing the idea of a just recompense. This underscores the principle that those who minister should be sustained by their ministry, as their labor is valuable in God's eyes.
"in the tabernacle of the congregation"
This final phrase specifies the location and nature of the service for which the reward is granted. It directly links their sustenance to their unique, consecrated role in maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the Tabernacle (H168, ʼôhel), the central place of worship and divine encounter for Israel, also known as the "tent of meeting" (H4150, môwʻêd). This emphasizes that their provision is directly tied to their sacred duties performed in the very presence of God.
Literary Devices
Numbers 18:31 employs several literary techniques to convey its message with clarity and authority. It primarily uses Legal Language/Stipulation, functioning as a divine decree that outlines the rights and provisions for the Levites and priests. The direct command and permission, "And ye shall eat it," is typical of covenantal stipulations, establishing an authoritative and binding arrangement. There is also a strong element of Causal Connection ("for it is your reward"), clearly linking the provision directly to the service rendered. This establishes a divine economy where faithful labor is met with faithful sustenance, emphasizing a just recompense. Furthermore, the phrase "Tabernacle of the congregation" acts as a form of Metonymy, where the physical structure (the Tabernacle) represents the entire system of Israelite worship, priestly duties, and the covenant relationship between God and Israel that was centered there, encompassing the spiritual and practical realities of their service.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 18:31 is foundational for understanding the biblical principle of supporting those dedicated to full-time spiritual ministry. It reveals God's meticulous care for His servants, ensuring that their devotion to sacred duties is not hampered by worldly anxieties concerning sustenance. This divine economic model for the Israelite priesthood underscores the immense value God places on consecrated service and establishes a reciprocal relationship: as the people faithfully provide for the ministers through their offerings, the ministers are enabled to faithfully serve God on behalf of the people. This principle transcends the Old Covenant, finding echoes and re-affirmation in the New Testament, where the spiritual laborer is deemed worthy of his hire, and the community of faith is called to sustain those who minister the Word and serve the church, enabling them to devote themselves fully to their calling.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 18:31 offers profound insights for contemporary believers regarding the support of those in full-time ministry. It reminds us that God Himself instituted a system for the sustenance of those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, emphasizing that this provision is a "reward" for their labor, not mere charity. For the church today, this translates into a clear responsibility to financially and practically support pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and other full-time Christian workers. Such support enables them to devote themselves fully to prayer, the study of the Word, and the care of souls, without being unduly burdened by the need to secure worldly income. It fosters an environment where spiritual leaders can thrive in their calling, unhindered by material concerns. For those in ministry, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to provide for their needs and the needs of their families as they faithfully serve Him, fostering trust and reliance on His divine care. It also elevates the spiritual work of ministry, affirming its immense value in God's eyes and its essential role in the life of the community of faith, encouraging both ministers and congregants to embrace their respective roles in God's economy.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why didn't the Levites receive a land inheritance like the other tribes?
The Levites did not receive a territorial land inheritance because God Himself was declared to be their inheritance. They were uniquely set apart by God for full-time, exclusive service in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), performing sacred duties that mediated between God and the people of Israel. Their role was to minister to the Lord and teach His laws to the people, a task that required their undivided attention and precluded them from engaging in agricultural or land-based economic activities. Therefore, instead of land, God ordained that their sustenance would come directly from His portion—the tithes and offerings brought by the other tribes—ensuring their provision without the distraction of worldly pursuits. This arrangement underscored their consecrated status and their complete dependence on God's provision through the faithfulness of His people, as detailed in Numbers 18:20-24.
What is the significance of eating it "in every place" with their "households"?
The phrase "in every place" is profoundly significant because it distinguishes this particular provision from other holy offerings that were highly restricted and could only be consumed within the sacred precincts of the Tabernacle court (e.g., specific portions of the sin offering or guilt offering). By permitting the Levites and priests to eat this portion "in every place," the verse emphasizes that it was intended for their daily, common sustenance, allowing them to consume it in their homes, villages, or wherever they resided. This highlights its nature as practical, everyday food for their livelihood, rather than a ritualistic meal tied to a specific holy location. The explicit inclusion of "your households" further underscores God's comprehensive care, ensuring that the entire family unit of the minister—wives, children, and servants—was provided for. This demonstrates God's practical concern for the well-being of His dedicated servants and their domestic lives, allowing them to serve without their families being neglected or impoverished. This broad permission contrasts sharply with the stricter regulations for other holy things, illustrating God's gracious and practical provision for those set apart for His service.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 18:31, with its emphasis on divine provision as a "reward" for consecrated service, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Levitical priesthood, sustained by the offerings of the people, served as a shadow of the perfect, eternal High Priesthood of Christ, who did not require earthly sustenance from tithes but was sustained by doing the will of His Father (John 4:34). Jesus' "service" was not in a physical tabernacle, but in His perfect obedience, His sinless life, and His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, which perfectly atoned for sin and perfected those who are being sanctified (Hebrews 10:14). His "reward" for this ultimate service is not perishable food but the salvation of humanity, His exaltation to the right hand of God, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom (Philippians 2:9-11). Through Christ, believers are constituted as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to spiritual service—offering spiritual sacrifices of praise and good works (Hebrews 13:15-16). Our provision is no longer from earthly tithes for temple service, but from the spiritual riches in Christ Jesus, who promises to meet all our needs according to His glorious riches (Philippians 4:19). The earthly provision for the Levites foreshadowed the spiritual abundance and eternal sustenance found in Christ, who is our ultimate reward and the inexhaustible source of all true life and blessing for those who serve Him.