1 Chronicles 6:69

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 6:69 (KJV)

1 Chronicles 6:69 is part of an extensive genealogical and geographical record detailing the allocation of cities to the Levites, specifically the Kohathite branch, in the land of Israel. This verse precisely names two such cities: "And Aijalon with her suburbs, and Gathrimmon with her suburbs:"

Historical and Cultural Context

The book of 1 Chronicles meticulously records the lineage of Israel and the organization of its tribes and religious services. Chapter 6 focuses heavily on the tribe of Levi, whose members were set apart by God for priestly and temple duties. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites did not receive a contiguous territorial inheritance but were instead allotted specific cities scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes, along with surrounding pasturelands known as "suburbs" (Hebrew: migrāsh). This strategic distribution ensured that spiritual instruction, judicial oversight, and the administration of God's law were accessible throughout all of Israel.

This particular verse lists cities from the territory of Ephraim that were given to the Kohathites. Aijalon was a significant city, located in a valley often associated with the tribe of Dan but bordering Ephraim and Benjamin. It is famously known as the valley where Joshua commanded the sun and moon to stand still. Gathrimmon was another Levite city within Ephraim's territory. These lists in Chronicles often parallel those found in Joshua 21, confirming the historical accuracy of these divine arrangements.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Provision and Order: The meticulous listing of these cities underscores God's detailed planning and faithfulness in providing for those dedicated to His service. The Levites, who had no land of their own, were fully sustained by the Lord's provision.
• Fulfillment of Covenant: This allocation of cities fulfills God's earlier commands regarding the Levites' role and sustenance, demonstrating His commitment to His covenant people and their specific callings.
• Importance of Spiritual Leadership: By scattering the Levitical cities, God ensured that spiritual leaders and teachers were present among all the tribes, making access to God's law and instruction readily available to the entire nation.
• Historical Record and Continuity: The Chronicler's emphasis on such detailed records highlights the importance of Israel's history and the continuity of God's work through generations.

Linguistic Insights

The term "suburbs" (Hebrew: migrāsh) is crucial here. It refers to the common land surrounding the Levitical cities, designated for their livestock and agricultural use. This was not merely empty space but vital pastureland that ensured the Levites' economic sustenance, as they were not to own fields or vineyards like the other tribes (compare Numbers 18:20).

The name Aijalon (אַיָּלוֹן - `Ayyālōn`) means "place of deer" or "gazelle," reflecting the local wildlife. Gathrimmon (גַּת־רִמּוֹן - `Gath-Rimmōn`) translates to "winepress of the pomegranate," suggesting its agricultural significance, likely for vineyards or pomegranate groves.

Practical Application

While seemingly a dry list of names, 1 Chronicles 6:69 speaks to profound truths. It reminds us that God is a God of order and provision. He meticulously cares for those who are called to serve Him, ensuring their needs are met. For believers today, this can be an encouragement that as we commit to God's work, He will provide for us. It also highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and instruction being accessible to all, a principle that underpins the church's mission to spread the Gospel and teach God's Word globally.