What number verse is Numbers 35:5 in the Bible?

Numbers 35:5 is the 4,851st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Numbers 35:5 sits at position 4,851.

35:435:4 35:635:6

Numbers 35:5

“The Levites' Cities and Pasturelands”· Numbers 35:1–8Read in context

King James Version

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.

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KJV (with Strong's)

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.

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Complete Jewish Bible

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.

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Berean Standard Bible

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.

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American Standard Version

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.

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World English Bible Messianic

You shall measure outside of 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 middle. This shall be the suburbs of their cities.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And yee shall measure without the citie of the Eastside, two thousand cubites: and of the Southside, two thousand cubites: and of the Westside, two thousand cubites: and of ye Northside, two thousand cubites: and the citie shalbe in ye middes. this shalbe the measure of the suburbes of their cities.

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Young's Literal Translation

And ye have measured from the outside of the city, the east quarter, two thousand by the cubit, and the south quarter, two thousand by the cubit, and the west quarter, two thousand by the cubit, and the north quarter, two thousand by the cubit; and the city is in the midst; this is to them the suburbs of the cities.

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Nederlands · STVE

En gij zult meten van buiten de stad, aan den hoek tegen het oosten, twee duizend ellen, en aan den hoek van het zuiden, twee duizend ellen, en aan den hoek van het westen, twee duizend ellen, en aan den hoek van het noorden, twee duizend ellen; dat de stad in het midden zij. Dit zullen zij hebben tot voorsteden van de steden.

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Translation

In the KJVVerse 4,851 of 31,102 · 15.6%

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Summary

Numbers 35:5 meticulously details the divine instructions for establishing the precise dimensions of the pasture lands, or "suburbs," surrounding the 48 cities designated for the Levites within the Promised Land. This verse specifies a uniform measurement of two thousand cubits in each of the four cardinal directions from the city walls, ensuring that the Levitical city remained centrally situated within this allocated area. These provisions were critical for the Levites' practical sustenance, enabling them to maintain livestock and secure their livelihood, thereby empowering them to fulfill their sacred duties without the burden of agricultural cultivation.

Context

Literary Context

Numbers 35:5 is situated within a crucial legislative section of the Book of Numbers, specifically Numbers 35:1-8, which outlines the unique allocation of cities to the tribe of Levi. Unlike the other Israelite tribes, the Levites were not granted a territorial inheritance of agricultural land, as their inheritance was explicitly declared to be the Lord Himself and their dedicated service in the tabernacle, as stated in Numbers 18:20. Instead, they were allotted 48 cities scattered strategically throughout the territories of the other tribes, ensuring their presence among all the people of Israel as spiritual guides, teachers, and administrators of justice. This particular verse precisely defines the open land or common ground, known as "suburbs" (Hebrew: migrāš), immediately surrounding these cities, which was essential for their livestock and practical sustenance. This section also introduces the vital provision of the six Cities of Refuge, further highlighting the meticulous legal and social structure God was establishing for His nascent nation.

Historical & Cultural Context

The instructions in Numbers 35:5 were delivered to the Israelites while they were encamped on the plains of Moab, on the brink of entering and settling the Promised Land. This period marked a significant transition from a nomadic wilderness existence to a settled agricultural society, necessitating clear and comprehensive laws regarding land ownership, allocation, and usage. In the ancient Near East, land was the primary source of wealth, sustenance, and social stability, making the precise demarcation of boundaries crucial for preventing disputes and maintaining societal order. The Levites, as a non-landholding tribe, were sustained by the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, supplemented by the produce from these specifically allocated pasture lands. The "cubit" (ʾammah) was a widely accepted unit of measurement in antiquity, typically ranging from 18 to 21 inches (approximately 45-53 cm), making "two thousand cubits" a substantial and clearly defined area, roughly equivalent to 3,000-3,500 feet or 900-1,000 meters. This meticulous divine planning underscores God's foresight in establishing a sustainable infrastructure for the priestly tribe, seamlessly integrating their sacred duties with their essential practical needs within the emerging nation of Israel.

Key Themes

Numbers 35:5 significantly contributes to several overarching theological and narrative themes within the Pentateuch and the Book of Numbers. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Order and Provision. The meticulous detail in this verse, down to the specific measurements and cardinal directions, highlights God's precise planning and His faithful, comprehensive provision for the Levites. This demonstrates that even without a traditional tribal land inheritance, their needs were abundantly met through specific divine instructions, a powerful testament to God's holistic care for those dedicated to His service, a principle echoed in the New Testament's assurance of God's care for His people, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34. Secondly, the verse emphasizes Stewardship of Resources. The clearly defined boundaries for the pasture lands underscore the importance of proper land management and responsible resource allocation within the Israelite community. It ensured the land could sustainably support their herds and flocks, which were vital for their economy and daily life, illustrating a foundational principle of responsible dominion over creation first articulated in Genesis 1. Lastly, it speaks to the theme of Separation and Practicality. While the Levites were consecrated and set apart for sacred duties, they also had practical, earthly 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 enabling their focused devotion to ministry, aligning with the broader concept of holiness and practical living seen throughout Leviticus 11.

Exposition and Analysis

Key Word Analysis

measure mâdad' H4058

From a primitive root meaning "to stretch," this term implies measuring as if by stretching a line, or figuratively, to be extended. In Numbers 35:5, it signifies the precise and deliberate act of demarcating the boundaries of the Levitical pasture lands. This highlights the divine command for exactness and order in the allocation of resources, ensuring a clear and undisputed area for the Levites' sustenance.

cubits ʼammâh' H520

Properly, a "mother" (i.e., unit of measure), or the fore-arm (below the elbow), referring to an ancient unit of linear measurement. While its exact length varied, it typically ranged from 18 to 21 inches (approximately 45-53 centimeters). The specification of "two thousand cubits" indicates a substantial and precisely measured area, emphasizing the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the ample practical provision for the Levites' needs.

suburbs migrâsh' H4054

This term denotes a suburb, specifically open country where flocks are driven from pasture, or the area around a building. In this context, it refers to the common land or pasture fields designated for grazing livestock, distinct from the dwelling areas within the city itself. It signifies an area of shared use crucial for the economic sustenance of the Levites, who, unlike other tribes, did not receive agricultural land. The migrâsh was vital for their livelihood, allowing them to maintain their herds and flocks, which were essential for their daily needs and for certain sacrificial offerings.

Verse Breakdown

"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"

This initial clause provides meticulous and symmetrical instructions for the land allocation. The repetition of "two thousand cubits" for each of the four cardinal directions (east, south, west, north) emphasizes the divine command's exactness, comprehensiveness, and uniformity. This ensured a perfectly square and ample pasture area surrounding each Levitical city, underscoring God's attention to detail in providing for His servants and establishing order within the community.

"and the city [shall be] in the midst"

This phrase highlights the central positioning of the Levitical city within its designated common land. It signifies a harmonious and practical integration of the urban dwelling space with the surrounding pasture, ensuring convenient and equitable access to grazing areas for the Levites' livestock. The city's central location within its migrāš reflects a well-planned, self-sustaining community structure designed for efficiency and ease of living.

"this shall be to them the suburbs of the cities"

This concluding statement serves as a definitive clarification of the purpose and designation of the measured land. It formally identifies the entire area as the "suburbs" or pasture lands belonging to the Levitical cities, explicitly stating its function as common ground for the sustenance of the Levites and their herds. This reinforces the divine intent behind this unique land allocation, ensuring the Levites' practical needs were met to facilitate their sacred duties.

Literary Devices

Numbers 35:5 employs several literary devices to convey its message with clarity and authority. The most prominent is Precision and Detail, evident in the exact numerical measurements ("two thousand cubits") and the explicit specification of each cardinal direction (east, south, west, north). This meticulousness underscores the divine authorship of the law and the importance of exact adherence to God's commands, reflecting His perfect order and comprehensive planning. Repetition of the phrase "two thousand cubits" for each side serves to emphasize the uniformity and completeness of the provision, ensuring no direction is neglected and the total area forms a perfectly symmetrical square. This repetition also creates a rhythmic quality, reinforcing the command's authoritative and unchangeable nature. Furthermore, there is an element of Symbolism present; the ordered, symmetrical layout of the Levitical cities and their surrounding pasture lands can be seen as symbolizing God's desire for order, peace, and abundance within His covenant community, and His faithful, comprehensive provision for those dedicated to His service.

Theological and Thematic Connections

Numbers 35:5, while appearing to be a technical land law, is profoundly theological, revealing core aspects of God's character and His covenant faithfulness. It demonstrates God's meticulous care for His people, particularly those set apart for sacred service. The precise provision for the Levites' practical needs underscores the enduring principle that those who minister spiritually should be adequately supported, enabling them to focus on their divine calling without undue worldly distraction. This divine blueprint for communal living emphasizes order, clear boundaries, and responsible stewardship of resources, reflecting God's own orderly and provident nature. It also highlights the unique status of the Levites, whose ultimate inheritance was not earthly land but the Lord Himself, yet whose physical needs were still met through specific divine instruction, showcasing God's holistic and compassionate provision for His servants.

Numbers 18:20 Deuteronomy 12:5-7 1 Corinthians 9:14

Reflection and Application

Numbers 35:5, though rooted in ancient Israelite land law, offers profound and timeless principles for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order, precision, and faithful provision, even in the seemingly mundane details of life. Just as He meticulously planned for the physical sustenance of the Levites, He continues to care for the practical needs of His people today, especially those dedicated to ministry. This verse challenges us to consider our own stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us—whether financial, material, or temporal—and to manage them with wisdom, intentionality, and order, reflecting God's own precise design for flourishing. It also calls us to actively participate in God's provision for His servants, ensuring that those who minister the Gospel are adequately supported so they can devote themselves fully to their calling, thereby fostering a healthy, vibrant, and spiritually fruitful community within the body of Christ.

Questions for Reflection

How does God's meticulous provision for the Levites, as detailed in this verse, challenge my understanding of His comprehensive care for His servants and His people today?
In what areas of my personal life, or within my community, can I demonstrate greater order, wisdom, and responsible stewardship, reflecting God's precise design for flourishing?
How can I practically contribute to ensuring that those dedicated to spiritual ministry are adequately supported, allowing them to focus on their calling without unnecessary worldly burdens?

FAQ

Why did the Levites need these specific "suburbs" or pasture lands?

The Levites, unlike the other Israelite tribes, did not receive a territorial inheritance of agricultural land because their primary role was to serve the Lord in the tabernacle and later the temple, and the Lord Himself was explicitly declared to be their inheritance (Numbers 18:20). However, they still had practical needs for sustenance. These "suburbs" (migrāš) were divinely designated common lands around their cities, primarily for grazing their livestock. This provision allowed them to maintain their herds and flocks, which were essential for their livelihood and for certain offerings, ensuring their practical needs were met while they focused entirely on their spiritual duties. It was a crucial divine provision to enable their dedicated service without being dependent on cultivating land.

What is the significance of the "two thousand cubits" measurement?

The "two thousand cubits" measurement (approximately 3,000-3,500 feet or 900-1,000 meters) signifies a substantial and precisely defined area of land surrounding each Levitical city. This exactness underscores God's meticulous planning and His desire for order, clarity, and ample provision within the community. Practically, it ensured that there was abundant pasture land for the Levites' livestock, providing sufficient space for grazing and preventing disputes over boundaries. This precise allocation reflects God's comprehensive care, providing not only for their spiritual roles but also for their physical well-being and economic stability within the land of Israel, aligning with the principles of wise land management found in Leviticus 25.

Christ-Centered Fulfillment

Numbers 35:5, with its detailed provision for the Levites' physical sustenance, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Levites, set apart for sacred service and dependent on divine provision, foreshadow the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the priestly ministry. While the "suburbs" provided earthly sustenance for a temporary priesthood, Christ offers spiritual and eternal sustenance for all who believe. He is the true Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, rendering the Levitical sacrificial system complete and obsolete. Furthermore, the meticulous order and divine provision seen in the Old Testament law point to Christ as the one through whom all things were created and in whom all things hold together (Colossians 1:16-17). Just as God meticulously provided for the Levites' physical needs, Christ assures His disciples of divine care, urging them not to worry about what they will eat or drink, for their heavenly Father knows their needs (Matthew 6:25-34). Ultimately, the Levites' inheritance was the Lord, and for believers today, our ultimate and eternal inheritance is found in Christ, who is our life, our complete provision, and our eternal dwelling place (Ephesians 1:11). He is the true spiritual "pasture" and "suburb" of our souls, providing abundant life and eternal rest.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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