Joshua 21:20

The remaining Kohathite clans of the Levites were allotted these cities: From the tribe of Ephraim

Study Bible

The rest of the Kohathite clans of the Levites
This phrase refers to the descendants of Kohath, one of Levi's three sons. The Kohathites were a significant Levitical clan responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects. Historically, the Levites were set apart for religious duties, and the Kohathites, in particular, had the honor of carrying the Ark of the Covenant and other holy items during the Israelites' travels. This highlights the importance of their role in maintaining the spiritual life of Israel, emphasizing the sacred trust and responsibility given to them by God.

were allotted cities
The allocation of cities to the Levites, including the Kohathites, was a fulfillment of God's command to provide for the tribe that had no inheritance of land like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities within the territories of other tribes. This arrangement ensured that the Levites were dispersed throughout Israel, allowing them to perform their priestly duties and teach the Law to the people. It underscores the principle of God's provision and the integration of spiritual leadership within the community.

from the tribe of Ephraim
Ephraim was one of the prominent tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's younger son. The tribe of Ephraim held a central position in the land of Canaan, both geographically and politically. By assigning cities to the Kohathites within Ephraim, there is a symbolic connection between the spiritual leadership of the Levites and the influential role of Ephraim among the tribes. This allocation reflects the unity and interdependence of the tribes, as well as the centrality of worship and religious instruction in the life of the nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kohathites
A division of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects.

2. Levites
The tribe set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle and later the Temple. They did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in.

3. Tribe of Ephraim
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Ephraim. This tribe was allotted a significant portion of land in the central region of Canaan.

4. Cities of Refuge
Among the cities given to the Levites, some were designated as cities of refuge, where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum.

5. Allotment of Cities
The distribution of cities to the Levites was part of the broader division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as commanded by God through Moses and executed by Joshua.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's provision and order. He ensures that those who serve Him are cared for, even without a traditional inheritance.

Role of the Levites
The Levites' role as spiritual leaders and caretakers of the sacred is a reminder of the importance of spiritual leadership and service in the community of faith.

Community and Responsibility
The integration of the Levites into various tribal territories highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility in the life of God's people.

Spiritual Inheritance
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the Lord Himself, pointing to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can this principle be applied in the church today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites as spiritual leaders inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the New Testament church?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge relate to the New Testament understanding of Christ as our refuge?

4. What can we learn from the Levites' lack of a traditional inheritance about the nature of our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

5. How does the integration of the Levites into the territories of other tribes illustrate the importance of community and shared responsibility among believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command given by God to Moses regarding the provision of cities for the Levites, including cities of refuge.

1 Chronicles 6
Provides a genealogical record of the Levites, including the Kohathites, and details their assigned cities.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood and the role of the Levites, contrasting it with the priesthood of Melchizedek, which is fulfilled in Christ.