Joshua 21:23

From the tribe of Dan they were given Elteke, Gibbethon,

Study Bible

And from the tribe of Dan
The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Historically, the tribe of Dan was known for its struggles in securing its allotted territory, as described in the Book of Judges. The mention of Dan here signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to provide for all tribes, even those who faced challenges. The Hebrew root for Dan means "judge," reflecting the tribe's role in the broader narrative of Israel's history.

they gave
The act of giving here is significant in the context of the Levitical cities. The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties, did not receive a specific territory like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities within the territories of other tribes. This act of giving underscores the communal responsibility and unity among the tribes of Israel, ensuring that the Levites had places to live and serve. It reflects the principle of generosity and provision within the covenant community.

Eltekeh
Eltekeh is one of the cities given to the Levites. Its exact location is not definitively known today, but it is believed to have been situated in the lowland region of the tribe of Dan. The name Eltekeh may derive from a root meaning "God is my fear" or "God is my reverence," indicating a place of spiritual significance. This allocation to the Levites highlights the integration of worship and daily life, as the Levites were responsible for maintaining the spiritual health of the nation.

Gibbethon
Gibbethon is another city allocated to the Levites. Archaeological evidence suggests it was a fortified city, which played a role in various military campaigns, as mentioned in the books of Kings. The name Gibbethon may mean "mound" or "height," suggesting its strategic importance. The inclusion of such a city in the Levitical allotment emphasizes the need for spiritual oversight even in places of military significance, reminding the Israelites of God's sovereignty over all aspects of life.

with their pasturelands
The provision of pasturelands alongside the cities was crucial for the Levites, as it allowed them to sustain themselves and their families. This allocation ensured that the Levites could focus on their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor. The Hebrew term for pasturelands indicates open fields suitable for grazing, symbolizing God's provision and care for His people. It reflects the holistic approach to community life in Israel, where spiritual and physical needs were both addressed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Dan
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and Bilhah. The tribe was allocated land in the northern part of Israel.

2. Eltekeh
A city given to the Levites from the tribe of Dan. It was one of the cities with pasturelands for the Levites to dwell in and sustain themselves.

3. Gibbethon
Another city given to the Levites from the tribe of Dan. Like Eltekeh, it included surrounding pasturelands.

4. Levites
The priestly tribe of Israel, descendants of Levi. They were given specific cities and pasturelands throughout Israel as they did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes.

5. Allocation of Cities
This event is part of the broader distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, with specific cities designated for the Levites.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's provision for those who serve Him. Just as the Levites were provided for, God ensures that those who dedicate their lives to His service are cared for.

The Importance of Community Support
The tribes of Israel were responsible for supporting the Levites, illustrating the importance of community and mutual support within the body of believers.

Faithfulness in Fulfilling God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in distributing the land as commanded by God serves as a model for us to faithfully follow God's instructions in our lives.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
The Levites were set apart for spiritual leadership and service. This reminds us of the importance of supporting and respecting those who lead and serve in our spiritual communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the allocation of cities to the Levites teach us about God's provision for those who serve Him?

2. How can we, as a community of believers, support those who are dedicated to spiritual leadership and service today?

3. In what ways does the obedience of the Israelites in distributing the land challenge us to be faithful in our own lives?

4. How does the concept of community support seen in the allocation of Levitical cities apply to the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in your life. How can this encourage you to trust Him more fully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command from God to give the Levites cities to dwell in, along with pasturelands. It provides the background for the allocations seen in Joshua 21.

1 Chronicles 6
This passage lists the Levitical cities, providing a parallel account to Joshua 21 and emphasizing the importance of the Levites' role in Israel.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the inheritance of the Levites, highlighting their unique role and the provision made for them by the other tribes.