Numbers 35:2

KJV

Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in; and ye shall give [also] unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round about them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Command {H6680} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, that they give {H5414} unto the Levites {H3881} of the inheritance {H5159} of their possession {H272} cities {H5892} to dwell in {H3427}; and ye shall give {H5414} also unto the Levites {H3881} suburbs {H4054} for the cities {H5892} round about {H5439} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Order the people of Isra'el to give to the L'vi'im cities to live in from the heritage they will possess, and you are also to give the L'vi'im some of the open land surrounding the cities.

Berean Standard Bible

“Command the Israelites to give, from the inheritance they will possess, cities for the Levites to live in and pasturelands around the cities.

American Standard Version

Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in; and suburbs for the cities round about them shall ye give unto the Levites.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 35:2 presents a foundational divine command to the Israelites, instructing them to allocate specific cities and their surrounding pasturelands from their tribal inheritances to the Levites. This mandate ensured the provision and dwelling places for the tribe consecrated for sacred service, who, unlike the other tribes, received no consolidated territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. It underscores God's meticulous care for His servants and the establishment of an organized, just system for the support of those dedicated to spiritual ministry within the burgeoning nation of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse initiates a crucial section in Numbers 35, detailing the specific provision for the Levites as the Israelites stand on the threshold of entering Canaan. It follows the detailed instructions for the division of the land among the other tribes (Numbers 34) and precedes the establishment of the cities of refuge (Numbers 35:9-34), which were also to be Levitical cities. The placement of this command highlights its importance in the broader framework of establishing an ordered society in the Promised Land, ensuring that the spiritual leadership was integrated throughout the nation and adequately supported, even without a contiguous tribal territory.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The command in Numbers 35:2 is given while the Israelites are encamped on the plains of Moab, poised to cross the Jordan River and conquer Canaan. This period marks a transition from nomadic wilderness wandering to settled agricultural life. Culturally, land ownership was central to tribal identity and economic stability. However, the Levites were uniquely set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and, later, the Temple, and thus were not to engage in agricultural pursuits like the other tribes. Their lack of a territorial inheritance necessitated a distinct system of provision, which this command addresses by integrating them into the existing tribal structures through dispersed cities.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 35:2 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Provision**, demonstrating God's faithful and meticulous care for those consecrated to His service, ensuring their sustenance and dwelling. This echoes the earlier declaration that the [Lord Himself was the Levites' inheritance](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance"), a spiritual inheritance that necessitated a physical means of support. The verse also reinforces the **Unique Role of the Levites** within Israel, underscoring their distinct calling to ministry, which freed them from agricultural labor and required the support of the other tribes, as further elaborated in [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "Numbers 18:21 - Tithes for the Levites"). Furthermore, it speaks to **Order and Justice in Land Distribution**, showcasing God's equitable and orderly approach to the allocation of resources within the nation, ensuring that even those without a traditional land inheritance were justly provided for within the divine economy.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Command (Hebrew, _tzav'_):** The Hebrew verb צַו (_tzav_), meaning "to command" or "to order," is used here as a strong imperative. Its use signifies a direct, authoritative instruction from God to Moses, to be relayed to the children of Israel. This is not a suggestion or a recommendation, but a divine decree, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature and importance of providing for the Levites. It reflects God's sovereign will in the structuring of His covenant people.
* **Levites (Hebrew, _levi'im'_):** The term לְוִיִּם (_levi'im_) refers to the descendants of Levi, the priestly tribe set apart by God for specific religious duties. Unlike the other eleven tribes who received territorial inheritances, the Levites were consecrated to serve the Tabernacle (and later, the Temple), assist the priests, teach the Law, and administer justice. This verse highlights their unique status by mandating their provision through the other tribes, confirming their distinct role as the spiritual backbone of the nation, dispersed among the people.
* **Suburbs (Hebrew, _migrash'_):** The Hebrew word מִגְרָשׁ (_migrash_) specifically denotes the open, common pastureland immediately surrounding the Levitical cities. This land was distinct from cultivated fields and vineyards, which were typically owned by individual families. The _migrash_ was for the Levites' livestock (cattle, sheep, goats), which provided them with a source of sustenance and income. Its inclusion in the command underscores God's comprehensive provision, ensuring the Levites had not only dwelling places but also the means to sustain themselves without engaging in the agricultural labor that would distract from their sacred duties.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Command the children of Israel":** This opening phrase establishes the divine authority behind the instruction. It is a direct, non-negotiable directive from God, delivered through Moses, to the entire Israelite community, emphasizing the collective responsibility for the care of the Levites.
* **"that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in":** This clause specifies the primary provision: cities. It clarifies that these cities are not new creations but are to be drawn "from the inheritance of their possession"—meaning from the territories already allocated to the other Israelite tribes. This ensures the Levites are integrated geographically throughout the nation, allowing them to fulfill their roles as spiritual guides and teachers among all the people.
* **"and ye shall give [also] unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round about them":** This final clause adds a crucial detail to the provision: the "suburbs" or pasturelands. This demonstrates God's holistic care, recognizing that cities alone would not be sufficient for the Levites, who, though not farmers, would still possess livestock for their sustenance. The inclusion of these common lands ensures their practical livelihood and underscores the meticulous nature of God's planning for His servants.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Numbers 35:2 is **Divine Command**, expressed through the imperative "Command." This direct address from God to Moses, intended for the entire Israelite community, establishes the absolute authority and non-negotiable nature of the instruction. The verse also employs **Legalistic Language**, characteristic of the Pentateuch's legislative sections, using precise and prescriptive terms ("give unto," "cities to dwell in," "suburbs for the cities") to define the exact parameters of the provision. Furthermore, there is an element of **Foreshadowing** as this command anticipates the settled life of Israel in Canaan and the ongoing, dispersed role of the Levites as spiritual stewards throughout the land, a structure that would be vital for the nation's spiritual health for centuries to come.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 35:2 is deeply significant, revealing God's character as a meticulous provider who orchestrates the well-being of His people, especially those dedicated to His service. It establishes a divine precedent for the support of full-time ministry, demonstrating that those who devote themselves to spiritual duties should be freed from the burdens of secular labor for their sustenance. This command underscores the interdependency within the covenant community: the tribes provide for the Levites, enabling the Levites to minister to the tribes, thus fostering a holistic spiritual and social ecosystem. It highlights the principle of stewardship, where the land, ultimately God's, is to be managed in a way that honors His purposes and provides for all His people.

* [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance")
* [Joshua 21:1](/joshua/21 "Joshua 21 - Allocation of Levitical Cities")
* [1 Corinthians 9:13](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Support for Gospel Ministers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 35:2 offers profound insights into God's design for community and ministry, principles that resonate far beyond ancient Israel. It challenges believers today to consider their role in supporting those who dedicate their lives to teaching God's Word and serving His people. Just as the Levites were set apart for sacred service and provided for by the community, so too are those in full-time ministry called to a unique focus, and the church is called to ensure their adequate provision. This allows ministers to devote themselves fully to prayer, the study of the Word, and the care of souls, without being unduly burdened by worldly concerns. It reminds us that spiritual work is valuable and worthy of material support, reflecting God's own meticulous care for His servants and His desire for an ordered, flourishing spiritual life within His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the command in Numbers 35:2 inform our understanding of supporting those in full-time ministry today?**
* **In what ways can a community ensure that spiritual leaders are adequately resourced to focus on their divine calling?**
* **What does God's meticulous provision for the Levites teach us about His care for all His people, including those with unique roles?**
* **How can we, as individuals and as a church, better embody the principle of mutual support and stewardship seen in this passage?**

### FAQ
**Why didn't the Levites receive a tribal land inheritance like the other Israelite tribes?**

Answer: The Levites did not receive a consolidated tribal land inheritance because their primary inheritance was the Lord Himself, and their designated role was to serve Him directly in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. As stated in [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance"), "I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites." Their sacred duties, which included caring for the holy things, teaching the Law, and assisting the priests, required them to be free from the agricultural and territorial concerns that occupied the other tribes. Instead, they were to be supported by the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, and as Numbers 35:2 commands, provided with cities and pasturelands dispersed throughout the nation, allowing them to minister to all Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 35:2, with its focus on the provision for the Levitical priesthood, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Jesus Christ. The Levitical system, including the priests and their support, was a shadow pointing to the reality of Christ. Jesus is the [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest") who offered the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, rendering the continuous Levitical sacrifices obsolete (Hebrews 7:27, [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). In Him, the need for a distinct tribe to mediate between God and humanity is superseded, as all believers are now part of a "[royal priesthood](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")" with direct access to God through Christ. While the specific command for cities and suburbs for the Levites is fulfilled in the cessation of that particular covenant order, the underlying principle of supporting those who minister God's Word endures. The New Testament church, through its support of those who preach the Gospel, embodies the spirit of Numbers 35:2, ensuring that those dedicated to spiritual service are freed to fulfill their calling, just as Paul argues in [1 Corinthians 9:13-14](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Support for Gospel Ministers"), "the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel." Thus, Christ fulfills the Levitical system and re-establishes the principle of ministerial support within the new covenant, not based on tribal inheritance, but on the spiritual inheritance of grace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Joshua 14:3

For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan: but unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them.

Joshua 14:4

For the children of Joseph were two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim: therefore they gave no part unto the Levites in the land, save cities to dwell [in], with their suburbs for their cattle and for their substance.

Ezekiel 48:8

And by the border of Judah, from the east side unto the west side, shall be the offering which ye shall offer of five and twenty thousand [reeds in] breadth, and [in] length as one of the [other] parts, from the east side unto the west side: and the sanctuary shall be in the midst of it.

Ezekiel 48:22

Moreover from the possession of the Levites, and from the possession of the city, [being] in the midst [of that] which is the prince's, between the border of Judah and the border of Benjamin, shall be for the prince.

1 Corinthians 9:10

Or saith he [it] altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, [this] is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.

1 Corinthians 9:14

Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

Leviticus 25:32

Notwithstanding the cities of the Levites, [and] the houses of the cities of their possession, may the Levites redeem at any time.