Joshua 21:35

Dimnah, and Nahalal--four cities, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

Dimnah
The name "Dimnah" is derived from the Hebrew root "דִּמְנָה" (Dimnah), which is not widely mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, making it somewhat obscure. The inclusion of Dimnah in this list of Levitical cities highlights the importance of even lesser-known locations in the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. This reflects God's attention to detail and His provision for all His people, ensuring that the Levites, who had no inheritance of their own, were cared for. Historically, the exact location of Dimnah is uncertain, but its mention signifies the comprehensive nature of the land allotment.

Nahalal
"Nahalal" comes from the Hebrew "נַחֲלָל" (Nahalal), meaning "pasture" or "meadow." This city was originally allotted to the tribe of Zebulun (Joshua 19:15) and later given to the Levites. The name itself evokes images of fertile land, suitable for grazing and agriculture, which would have been essential for sustaining the Levites and their families. The pastoral imagery associated with Nahalal can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual nourishment and the sustenance provided by God to His people.

together with their pasturelands
The phrase "together with their pasturelands" emphasizes the provision of not just the cities but also the surrounding lands necessary for the livelihood of the Levites. The Hebrew term "מִגְרָשׁ" (migrash) refers to the open land around a city used for grazing livestock. This allocation underscores the practical needs of the Levites, who relied on these lands for their sustenance. It also reflects the broader biblical principle of stewardship, where God provides for His people and expects them to manage His gifts wisely.

four cities
The mention of "four cities" in this context is part of a larger enumeration of Levitical cities throughout the land of Israel. The number four, while not as symbolically significant as other numbers in the Bible, represents completeness in this context, as it completes the list of cities given to the Levites from the tribe of Zebulun. This allocation is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Levites, ensuring they had a place within the Promised Land despite not receiving a tribal inheritance. It also serves as a reminder of the unity and interdependence among the tribes of Israel, as they shared their inheritance with the Levites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dimnah
A Levitical city allocated to the tribe of Zebulun. The Levites were given specific cities to dwell in, as they did not receive a large inheritance of land like the other tribes.

2. Nahalal
Another Levitical city within the territory of Zebulun. It served as a place for the Levites to live and perform their priestly duties.

3. Levitical Cities
These were cities designated for the Levites, who were the priestly tribe of Israel. They were spread throughout the land to ensure that the spiritual needs of the Israelites were met.

4. Tribe of Zebulun
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, whose territory included the cities of Dimnah and Nahalal.

5. Pasturelands
The surrounding lands of these cities were designated for the Levites' livestock, ensuring their sustenance and ability to serve the community.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's care and provision for those who serve Him. Just as God provided for the Levites, He provides for those who dedicate their lives to His service today.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
The distribution of Levitical cities throughout Israel ensured that spiritual guidance was accessible to all tribes. This highlights the importance of having spiritual leaders within our communities.

Community Responsibility
The other tribes were responsible for providing for the Levites, teaching us the importance of supporting those who minister to us spiritually.

Integration of Faith in Daily Life
The presence of Levitical cities within each tribe's territory served as a constant reminder of God's presence and the need to integrate faith into daily life.

Stewardship and Sharing Resources
The pasturelands provided to the Levites remind us of the importance of stewardship and sharing our resources with those who serve the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of Levitical cities reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting our spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways does the presence of spiritual leaders within a community impact the spiritual health of that community?

3. How can we ensure that our faith is integrated into our daily lives, similar to how the Levitical cities served as a reminder of God's presence?

4. What responsibilities do we have as a community to support those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, and how can we fulfill these responsibilities?

5. How can the concept of stewardship and sharing resources, as seen in the provision of pasturelands for the Levites, be applied in our personal and communal lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the commandment given by God to Moses regarding the allocation of cities to the Levites, emphasizing their role and the importance of their presence among the tribes.

1 Chronicles 6
This passage provides a genealogical record of the Levites and lists the cities given to them, reinforcing the distribution of Levitical cities across Israel.

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