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Joshua 21:3

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And the children of Israel gave unto the Levites out of their inheritance, at the commandment of the LORD, these cities and their suburbs.

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} gave {H5414} unto the Levites {H3881} out of their inheritance {H5159}, at the commandment {H6310} of the LORD {H3068}, these cities {H5892} and their suburbs {H4054}.

So out of their inheritance the people of Isra'el gave the L'vi'im the following cities with the surrounding open land:

So by the command of the LORD, the Israelites gave the Levites these cities and their pasturelands out of their own inheritance:

And the children of Israel gave unto the Levites out of their inheritance, according to the commandment of Jehovah, these cities with their suburbs.

Commentary

Joshua 21:3 marks a pivotal moment in the distribution of the promised land, detailing the provision made for the tribe of Levi. Unlike the other tribes who received territorial inheritances, the Levites were set apart for sacred service, and their portion was to be the Lord Himself.

Context of Joshua 21:3

Following the conquest of Canaan and the initial land allotments to the other eleven tribes, the focus shifts to the Levites. This verse describes the direct action taken by the children of Israel in fulfilling a divine directive. The Levites, descendants of Levi, were designated to serve in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), manage its sacred vessels, and teach God's law to the people. Consequently, they were not given a specific tribal territory like Reuben or Judah. Instead, God commanded that they be provided with cities and their surrounding pasturelands (known as 'suburbs' or common lands) from the inheritances of the other tribes. This command was first given through Moses in Numbers 35:1-8, emphasizing that these cities were to be scattered throughout the land, allowing the Levites to be accessible to all tribes for their spiritual duties.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Obedience to Divine Command: The phrase "at the commandment of the LORD" is central, highlighting the Israelites' faithful adherence to God's specific instructions. This act demonstrates their commitment to God's established order for their nation.
  • Divine Provision and Order: God ensures that those dedicated to His service are provided for, albeit in a unique way. The scattering of the Levites among all the tribes facilitated their role as spiritual guides and teachers, showing God's wise and orderly arrangement for His people.
  • Fulfillment of Promise: This verse is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling every word He spoke. The provision for the Levites was a long-standing command, now brought to fruition as Israel settled in the land. This echoes the broader theme of God's promises being fulfilled, as seen in Joshua 21:45.
  • Interdependence within the Community: The act of the other tribes giving from their own inheritance underscores the principle of mutual support within the community of faith. Those who received land were responsible for supporting those dedicated to spiritual ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The term "suburbs" in the KJV translates the Hebrew word migrash (מִגְרָשׁ). This is not merely a small plot of land next to a house but refers to the pasturelands and common ground surrounding the city. These areas were essential for the Levites' livestock and served as vital resources, demonstrating a comprehensive provision for their needs beyond just dwelling places.

Practical Application

Joshua 21:3 offers timeless principles for believers today:

  • Supporting Ministry: Just as the tribes supported the Levites, believers are called to support those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service and teaching, whether through financial means, prayer, or practical assistance. This reflects the New Testament principle of supporting those who preach the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:14).
  • Obedience and Trust: The Israelites' obedience reminds us of the importance of heeding God's commands, trusting that His plans, even when unconventional, are always for the good of His people and the advancement of His kingdom.
  • God's Faithfulness: The verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His promises. If He provided for the Levites as He commanded, He will also provide for us according to His will and purpose.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 49:7 (3 votes)

    Cursed [be] their anger, for [it was] fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel: I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel.

  • Deuteronomy 33:8 (2 votes)

    ¶ And of Levi he said, [Let] thy Thummim and thy Urim [be] with thy holy one, whom thou didst prove at Massah, [and with] whom thou didst strive at the waters of Meribah;

  • Deuteronomy 33:10 (2 votes)

    They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put incense before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:54 (2 votes)

    ¶ Now these [are] their dwelling places throughout their castles in their coasts, of the sons of Aaron, of the families of the Kohathites: for theirs was the lot.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:81 (2 votes)

    And Heshbon with her suburbs, and Jazer with her suburbs.