Numbers 35:7

Commentary on Numbers 35:7 (KJV)

Numbers 35:7 specifies the total number of cities to be allocated to the Levites within the Promised Land. This verse is part of a larger divine directive detailing the provisions for the Levite tribe and the establishment of cities of refuge.

Historical and Cultural Context

As the Israelites prepared to enter the land of Canaan, God gave Moses specific instructions for its division among the twelve tribes. Unique among them were the Levites, who were consecrated for service to the Lord in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance of their own (as seen in Numbers 18:20 and Deuteronomy 10:9). Instead, God commanded that cities and their surrounding pasturelands be given to them from the inheritances of the other tribes. This ensured their sustenance and allowed them to be dispersed throughout Israel, fulfilling their roles as teachers of the law, judges, and spiritual guides.

The "suburbs" (Hebrew: migrash) mentioned here refer to the common lands and pasture areas surrounding these cities, vital for the Levites' livestock and overall livelihood. This passage lays the groundwork for the actual distribution of these cities, which is later recorded in the book of Joshua 21:41.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Provision: This verse highlights God's meticulous care for His servants. Even though the Levites had no land inheritance, God ensured their needs were met through the provision of cities and pasturelands. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to those dedicated to His service.
• Order and Structure: The precise number of cities (forty-eight) underscores the divine order and detailed planning involved in the establishment of the Israelite nation. God's blueprint for their society was comprehensive, covering every aspect of tribal life and religious duty.
• Levitical Dispersion and Purpose: By distributing the Levites across all the tribal territories, God ensured that spiritual instruction, justice, and the knowledge of His laws would be accessible throughout the land. This dispersion facilitated their crucial role in maintaining the religious and moral fabric of Israel.
• Integration of Cities of Refuge: Within these forty-eight cities were six designated cities of refuge, a concept also introduced in this chapter. These cities provided sanctuary for those who had accidentally killed someone, demonstrating God's concern for justice and the sanctity of life, even in cases of unintentional homicide.

Linguistic Insights

The term "suburbs" is translated from the Hebrew word migrash (מִגְרָשׁ), which specifically denotes the open land or pasture ground surrounding a city. It wasn't merely vacant land but designated and measured areas crucial for the economic well-being of the Levites, who would rely on their livestock for sustenance. This detail shows the practical and comprehensive nature of God's provision.

Practical Application

Numbers 35:7 reminds us of God's faithfulness in providing for those who dedicate their lives to His service. Just as He made specific provisions for the Levites, He continues to care for His people today. It also speaks to the importance of order and intentionality in community and ministry. Every part of God's plan, down to the number and location of cities, serves a divine purpose. For believers, this verse can encourage trust in God's provision and a recognition that even seemingly small details in His plan contribute to a larger, perfect design.