1 Chronicles 6:77

The Merarites (the rest of the Levites) received the following: From the tribe of Zebulun they were given Rimmono and Tabor, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

The Merarites (the rest of the Levites) received the following:
The Merarites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, alongside the Kohathites and the Gershonites. The Levites were set apart for religious duties and service in the tabernacle, and later the temple. The Merarites specifically were responsible for the care and transportation of the tabernacle's structural components, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases. This allocation of cities to the Merarites reflects the fulfillment of God's command to provide for the Levites, who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel (Numbers 18:20-24).

From the tribe of Zebulun they were given Rimmono and Tabor,
The tribe of Zebulun was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's tenth son. Zebulun's territory was located in the northern part of Israel, which was fertile and strategically positioned for trade. Rimmono, also known as Rimmon, is a location that is not extensively detailed in biblical records, but it is understood to be within Zebulun's territory. Tabor is more significant, as it is associated with Mount Tabor, a prominent hill in the region. Mount Tabor is traditionally identified as the site of the Transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-9), making it a place of prophetic and typological significance, pointing to the revelation of Christ's divine nature.

together with their pasturelands.
The inclusion of pasturelands was essential for the Levites, as they needed resources to sustain their families and livestock. These lands provided the necessary means for the Levites to live, given that they did not have a large inheritance of land for agriculture. The provision of pasturelands underscores the practical care and provision God made for those dedicated to His service. This allocation also reflects the broader biblical principle of God's provision for His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 23:1, where the Lord is described as a shepherd who provides for all needs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Zebulun
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Zebulun, the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe was known for its maritime activities and settled in the northern part of Canaan.

2. Rimmono
A town allocated to the Levites from the tribe of Zebulun. Its exact location is uncertain, but it was part of the Levitical cities given for their service to God.

3. Tabor
A significant mountain in the region of Zebulun, often associated with biblical events. It was also a Levitical city, indicating its importance in religious and cultural contexts.

4. Levitical Cities
Cities allocated to the Levites, who were the priestly tribe of Israel. These cities were spread throughout the tribes of Israel to ensure the Levites could perform their religious duties.

5. Pasturelands
The lands surrounding the Levitical cities, used for grazing livestock. These lands were essential for the sustenance of the Levites, who did not have a tribal inheritance of their own.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Faithfulness
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites demonstrates God's provision for those who serve Him. It reminds us of His faithfulness in meeting the needs of His people.

The Role of the Levites
The Levites were set apart for God's service, and their distribution among the tribes ensured spiritual guidance and teaching throughout Israel. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and community support.

Significance of Place in God's Plan
The specific mention of places like Rimmono and Tabor underscores the importance of geographical locations in God's redemptive plan. It encourages us to consider how God uses our own places and circumstances for His purposes.

Inheritance Beyond Material Wealth
The Levites' inheritance was not land but their service to God and His people. This teaches us to value spiritual inheritance and service over material possessions.

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 we apply this principle in supporting our spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites among the tribes of Israel parallel the role of the church in society today?

3. How can we find significance and purpose in the places and circumstances God has placed us, as seen in the allocation of Rimmono and Tabor?

4. What does the concept of spiritual inheritance mean to you, and how can you prioritize it over material wealth in your life?

5. How do the blessings and prophecies concerning the tribe of Zebulun in Genesis and Deuteronomy encourage us to trust in God's promises for our future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter provides a detailed account of the allocation of cities to the Levites, including those from the tribe of Zebulun. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the distribution of the land.

Genesis 49:13
Jacob's blessing to Zebulun, indicating their future dwelling by the sea and involvement in trade, which connects to their geographical location and economic activities.

Deuteronomy 33:18-19
Moses' blessing to Zebulun, emphasizing their joy and prosperity, which can be seen in the allocation of fertile lands and significant locations like Tabor.