1 Chronicles 6:74

From the tribe of Asher they were given Mashal, Abdon,

Study Bible

From the tribe of Asher
The tribe of Asher is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Asher, the eighth son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Asher's name means "happy" or "blessed," reflecting the tribe's anticipated prosperity and abundance. Historically, the tribe of Asher was located in the fertile region of northern Canaan, which aligns with Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:20, where Asher's food is described as rich and fit for a king. This context highlights the divine provision and favor upon Asher, symbolizing spiritual abundance and blessing for believers.

they received
The phrase "they received" indicates the allocation of land, a fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites. This distribution of land was not merely a physical inheritance but a spiritual one, signifying God's faithfulness and the establishment of His people in the Promised Land. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience and trust in His promises.

Mashal
Mashal, one of the cities given to the tribe of Asher, is not widely mentioned elsewhere in Scripture, but its inclusion here signifies the completeness of God's provision. The name "Mashal" can be associated with the Hebrew root meaning "to rule" or "to have dominion," which may symbolize the authority and stewardship entrusted to God's people over the land.

Abdon
Abdon is another city allocated to the tribe of Asher. The name "Abdon" means "servant" or "service," reflecting the call to servanthood and humility in the life of a believer. This city, like others, represents the diverse roles and responsibilities within the community of faith, emphasizing that each place and person has a purpose in God's plan.

Hukok
Hukok, also known as Hukkok, is a city whose name means "decree" or "statute." This name underscores the importance of God's law and commandments in the life of His people. The allocation of Hukok to the tribe of Asher serves as a reminder of the centrality of God's Word and the need for His statutes to guide and govern the lives of believers.

Rehob
Rehob, meaning "broad" or "spacious," suggests a place of enlargement and freedom. This city represents the expansive nature of God's blessings and the freedom found in living according to His will. Rehob's inclusion in the inheritance of Asher highlights the breadth of God's grace and the spaciousness of His provision for His people.

together with their pasturelands
The mention of "pasturelands" indicates the provision for sustenance and livelihood. Pasturelands were essential for grazing livestock, which was a primary source of wealth and sustenance in ancient Israel. This provision reflects God's care for the physical needs of His people, paralleling the spiritual nourishment He provides. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual pastures where believers find rest and sustenance in God's presence, as echoed in Psalm 23:2, where the Lord leads His people beside quiet waters and makes them lie down in green pastures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Asher
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Asher, the eighth son of Jacob and Zilpah. Known for its rich land and abundance, Asher's territory was located in the northern part of Israel.

2. Mashal
A town allocated to the Levites within the territory of Asher. The name "Mashal" can be associated with the Hebrew root meaning "to rule" or "to have dominion."

3. Abdon
Another town given to the Levites in the region of Asher. The name "Abdon" is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "servant" or "service," reflecting the Levitical role in serving God and the community.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for Service
The allocation of towns like Mashal and Abdon to the Levites demonstrates God's provision for those dedicated to His service. It reminds us that God equips and provides for those He calls to serve Him.

The Role of Community in Supporting Ministry
The distribution of land to the Levites highlights the importance of community support for those in ministry. As believers, we are called to support and uphold those who dedicate their lives to serving God.

Heritage and Responsibility
The tribe of Asher's role in providing for the Levites reflects the broader responsibility of each tribe to contribute to the spiritual well-being of the nation. We, too, have a responsibility to contribute to the spiritual health of our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the allocation of towns like Mashal and Abdon to the Levites teach us about God's provision for those in ministry today?

2. How can we, as a community, better support those who are dedicated to serving God, similar to how the tribes supported the Levites?

3. In what ways does the heritage of the tribe of Asher, as described in Genesis 49:20, influence our understanding of their role in supporting the Levites?

4. How does the concept of "service" reflected in the name "Abdon" apply to our personal lives and ministries?

5. Reflecting on Numbers 18:20-24, how can we ensure that our contributions to the church and community align with God's intentions for His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21:30-31
This passage lists the towns given to the Levites from the tribe of Asher, including Mashal and Abdon, confirming the allocation of these towns for Levitical service.

Genesis 49:20
Jacob's blessing over Asher highlights the tribe's prosperity, which is reflected in the fertile lands that included towns like Mashal and Abdon.

Numbers 18:20-24
These verses explain the Levites' inheritance, emphasizing their role in serving God and the community, which is supported by the towns allocated to them.