Numbers 35:4

The pasturelands around the cities you are to give the Levites will extend a thousand cubits from the wall on every side.

Study Bible

The pastureland
The Hebrew word for "pastureland" is "migrash," which refers to open land surrounding a city. This land was designated for the Levites, who were the priestly tribe of Israel. The pastureland was not just for agricultural purposes but also served as a buffer zone, providing space for the Levites to live and work. This allocation underscores the importance of supporting those who serve in spiritual roles, ensuring they have the necessary resources to fulfill their duties.

around the cities
The cities mentioned here are the Levitical cities, which were distributed among the tribes of Israel. The Levites did not receive a specific territory like the other tribes but were given cities within each tribe's land. This arrangement highlights the integration of spiritual leadership within the community, ensuring that the Levites were accessible to all Israelites for religious instruction and guidance.

you give to the Levites
The Levites were set apart for service to God and the community, and their sustenance was provided by the other tribes. This phrase emphasizes the communal responsibility to support those dedicated to spiritual service. It reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and the importance of providing for those who minister in the name of the Lord.

will extend a thousand cubits
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The specification of "a thousand cubits" indicates a defined and significant area surrounding each city. This measurement ensured that the Levites had adequate space for their livestock and other needs, symbolizing God's provision and care for His servants.

from the city wall
The city wall represents protection and boundary. The measurement from the city wall signifies the beginning of the Levites' allotted land, marking a clear distinction between the city proper and the surrounding pastureland. This separation underscores the idea of sacred space, where the Levites could carry out their duties without interference, yet remain connected to the community they served.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
A tribe of Israel set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle. They were not given a specific territory like other tribes but were provided with cities and surrounding pasturelands.

2. Cities of Refuge
These were specific cities designated for the Levites, which also served as places of asylum for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally.

3. Pasturelands
The lands surrounding the Levitical cities, designated for their livestock and sustenance, extending a thousand cubits from the city wall.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
God provides for those who serve Him, ensuring that the Levites, who had no inheritance of land, were cared for through designated cities and pasturelands.

Community and Responsibility
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites underscores the importance of community support and shared responsibility in God's design.

Spiritual Refuge
The cities of refuge symbolize the spiritual refuge we find in Christ, who offers protection and forgiveness for our sins.

Stewardship of Resources
The specific measurement of the pasturelands (a thousand cubits) reflects God's attention to detail and the importance of stewardship over the resources He provides.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways do the cities of refuge point to the concept of spiritual refuge in Christ, and how can we seek refuge in Him in our daily lives?

3. How does the detailed allocation of land to the Levites demonstrate the importance of stewardship, and what practical steps can we take to be good stewards of the resources God has given us?

4. Considering the role of the Levites, how can we as believers serve our communities and support the spiritual needs of others?

5. How does the concept of community responsibility seen in the provision for the Levites challenge us to engage with and support our local church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter details the allocation of cities to the Levites, fulfilling the command given in Numbers 35.

Leviticus 25:32-34
Discusses the perpetual possession of the Levitical cities, emphasizing their unique role and provision among the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 7:11-28
Explores the priesthood of the Levites and contrasts it with the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, highlighting the temporary nature of the Levitical system.