Joshua 21:26

All the cities [were] ten with their suburbs for the families of the children of Kohath that remained.

All the cities {H5892} were ten {H6235} with their suburbs {H4054} for the families {H4940} of the children {H1121} of Kohath {H6955} that remained {H3498}.

All the cities of the families of the rest of the descendants of K'hat numbered ten with their surrounding open land.

In all, ten cities, together with their pasturelands, were given to the rest of the Kohathite clans.

All the cities of the families of the rest of the children of Kohath were ten with their suburbs.

Commentary

Joshua 21:26 concludes the specific list of cities allocated to the non-priestly families of the Kohathites within the tribe of Levi. This verse summarizes that these particular Kohathite families received a total of ten cities along with their surrounding pasturelands, known as suburbs.

Context

This verse is situated within Joshua chapter 21, which meticulously details the fulfillment of God's command to provide cities for the Levites among the tribes of Israel. Unlike the other eleven tribes who received large territories for inheritance, the Levites, consecrated for service to God, were not given a tribal land inheritance in the same way. Instead, they were distributed throughout Israel, receiving specific cities and their adjacent "suburbs" (pasturelands) from each tribe. This ensured their access to all parts of Israel for their priestly and teaching duties, and that they would be supported by the other tribes. The Kohathites were one of three main divisions of the Levites, known for their responsibility in carrying the most sacred articles of the tabernacle (and later, the temple) during the wilderness wanderings, as described in Numbers 3:31. This verse distinguishes these Kohathites from the descendants of Aaron (the priests), who were also Kohathites but received their cities earlier, as seen in Joshua 21:13-19.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Provision: The precise enumeration of cities for each Levitical family demonstrates God's meticulous planning and faithfulness in providing for those dedicated to His service. This detailed allocation highlights the divine order established for the nascent nation of Israel.
  • Fulfillment of Promise: The distribution of these cities, including those for the Kohathites, was a direct fulfillment of the instructions given by God through Moses, ensuring the Levites had a place and means of sustenance among their brethren. This echoes the broader theme of God fulfilling all His promises to Israel, as summarized later in Joshua 21:45.
  • Levitical Responsibility: By being dispersed throughout the land, the Levites, including the Kohathites, were positioned to serve as spiritual guides, teachers of the Law, and administrators of justice, ensuring the spiritual health and unity of the twelve tribes.

Significance and Application

Joshua 21:26, though a seemingly simple tally, underscores profound theological principles. It reminds us of God's commitment to His covenant and His people. It also illustrates the principle of supporting those who minister spiritually. Just as the tribes provided for the Levites, there is a biblical precedent for the community of faith to care for those who are called to full-time spiritual service. This verse is a testament to God's faithfulness in providing for all His people, not just in broad strokes but with specific, detailed care. It reinforces the idea that God is a God of order and that His plans are always brought to fruition.

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Cross-References

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