Numbers 35:5 | Bible Study Tools

And ye shall measure from without the city on the east side two thousand cubits, and on the south side two thousand cubits, and on the west side two thousand cubits, and on the north side two thousand cubits; and the city [shall be] in the midst: this shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.

And ye shall measure ^{H4058} from without ^{H2351} the city ^{H5892} on the east ^{H6924} side ^{H6285} two thousand ^{H505} cubits ^{H520}, and on the south ^{H5045} side ^{H6285} two thousand ^{H505} cubits ^{H520}, and on the west ^{H3220} side ^{H6285} two thousand ^{H505} cubits ^{H520}, and on the north ^{H6828} side ^{H6285} two thousand ^{H505} cubits ^{H520}; and the city ^{H5892} shall be in the midst ^{H8432}: this shall be to them the suburbs ^{H4054} of the cities ^{H5892}.

Measure 3,000 feet outward from the city wall to the east, south, west and north, with the city in the center. The space between the 1,500-foot line and the 3,000-foot line will be their open land around the cities.

You are also to measure two thousand cubits outside the city on the east, two thousand on the south, two thousand on the west, and two thousand on the north, with the city in the center. These areas will serve as larger pasturelands for the cities.

And ye shall measure without the city for the east side two thousand cubits, and for the south side two thousand cubits, and for the west side two thousand cubits, and for the north side two thousand cubits, the city being in the midst. This shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.

Commentary

Numbers 35:5 provides precise instructions regarding the land surrounding the 48 cities designated for the Levites in the Promised Land. This verse details the dimensions of the 'suburbs' or pasture lands, which were crucial for the livelihood of the priestly tribe.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Numbers 35 (verses 1-8) that outlines the allocation of cities to the tribe of Levi. Unlike the other Israelite tribes, the Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance because their inheritance was the Lord Himself and their service in the tabernacle and later the temple (Numbers 18:20). Instead, they were given 48 cities scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes, ensuring their presence among all the people of Israel. Numbers 35:5 specifically defines the open land or common ground around these cities, which was essential for their livestock and sustenance. These cities also included the six Cities of Refuge, a crucial provision for unintentional manslayers.

Key Themes

Divine Order and Provision: The meticulous detail in this verse highlights God’s precise planning and His faithful provision for the Levites. Even without a tribal land inheritance, their needs were met through specific divine instructions. This demonstrates God's care for those dedicated to His service.
Stewardship of Resources: The defined boundaries for the pasture lands underscore the importance of proper land management and resource allocation within the Israelite community. It ensured that the land could sustain their herds and flocks, a vital part of their economy and daily life.
Separation and Practicality: The Levites were set apart for sacred duties, but they also had practical needs. The provision of these pasture lands allowed them to live and maintain their livelihood without being solely dependent on the offerings of the people, thus maintaining their integrity and focus on ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The term "cubit" (Hebrew: ammah) was a common ancient unit of measurement, typically the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, roughly 18-21 inches (approx. 45-53 cm). Therefore, "two thousand cubits" (approximately 3,000-3,500 feet or 900-1,000 meters) from the city wall in each cardinal direction describes a significant area of open land. The Hebrew word for "suburbs" is migrāš, which specifically refers to common land, pasture land, or open fields used for grazing, distinct from the dwelling areas within the city itself.

Practical Application

Numbers 35:5, while detailing ancient Israelite land law, offers timeless principles. It reminds us of God's attention to detail in His provisions for His people and His servants. For believers today, it can inspire:

Care for Ministry Leaders: Just as God provided for the Levites, there is a biblical principle of supporting those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, ensuring their practical needs are met so they can focus on their calling (1 Corinthians 9:14).
Order and Wisdom in Planning: The precise measurements reflect the value of order, clear boundaries, and wise planning in community and personal life. God's design is never haphazard.
Stewardship: We are called to be good stewards of all resources God entrusts to us—whether land, finances, time, or talents—using them responsibly and for His glory.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.