Joshua 13:14

To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The offerings made by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, just as He had promised them.

Study Bible

To the tribe of Levi alone
The Levites were set apart for a unique role among the tribes of Israel. The Hebrew root for "Levi" is "לוי" (Levi), which is associated with the idea of joining or being attached. Historically, the Levites were chosen for their faithfulness during the incident of the golden calf (Exodus 32:26-29). This special calling set them apart for service to God, emphasizing the principle that spiritual service is a higher calling than material possession.

Moses had given no inheritance
The absence of a land inheritance for the Levites is significant. In the Hebrew context, "inheritance" (נחלה, nachalah) often refers to a tangible, physical possession. However, the Levites' lack of land underscores their dependence on God and the community of Israel for sustenance. This arrangement highlights the spiritual truth that God Himself is the ultimate inheritance for His people, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (Psalm 16:5).

the offerings made by fire to the LORD
The phrase "offerings made by fire" refers to the sacrifices and offerings presented at the altar, which were a central part of Israelite worship. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קרבן" (korban), meaning something brought near. These offerings were a means of drawing near to God, and the Levites were sustained by portions of these sacrifices. This provision illustrates the principle that those who serve at the altar share in the altar's offerings (1 Corinthians 9:13).

the God of Israel
This title emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people, Israel. The Hebrew name for God here is "יהוה" (YHWH), often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. It signifies the eternal, self-existent nature of God, who is faithful to His promises. The Levites' role was to facilitate the people's worship of this covenant-keeping God, reminding them of His holiness and their identity as His people.

are their inheritance
The Levites' inheritance being the offerings signifies a deeper spiritual truth: their portion is the Lord Himself. This concept is a profound reminder that true fulfillment and security come not from earthly possessions but from a relationship with God. It calls believers to prioritize spiritual riches over material wealth, echoing Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21 about storing up treasures in heaven.

as He promised them
God's promises are central to the narrative of Scripture. The phrase "as He promised" underscores God's faithfulness to His word. The Levites' unique inheritance was not an afterthought but a fulfillment of divine promise, reflecting God's sovereign plan and His commitment to His people. This assurance of God's faithfulness encourages believers to trust in His promises, knowing that He is unchanging and true to His word (Hebrews 10:23).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Levi
The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were not given a specific territory like the other tribes but were instead given cities to dwell in and were supported by the offerings made by the other tribes.

2. Offerings Made by Fire
These were sacrifices offered to God, which included burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings. They were a significant part of the Levitical priesthood's duties and were considered holy.

3. The LORD, the God of Israel
This refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who established the laws and commandments for His people, including the role and inheritance of the Levites.

4. Inheritance
In the context of the Israelites, inheritance typically referred to the land apportioned to each tribe. For the Levites, their inheritance was unique as it was not land but the offerings made to God.

5. Promise
This refers to God's covenantal promise to the Levites that their inheritance would be the offerings made by fire, as stated in earlier scriptures such as Numbers 18:20-24.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The Levites' inheritance was a reminder that God provides for those who serve Him. In our lives, we can trust that God will meet our needs as we dedicate ourselves to His service.

Spiritual Inheritance Over Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was spiritual rather than material, teaching us to value our spiritual blessings in Christ over earthly possessions.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
The offerings made by fire were central to the Levites' role, highlighting the importance of sacrifice in our worship and relationship with God.

Living as a Set-Apart People
Just as the Levites were set apart for God's work, believers today are called to live distinct lives, dedicated to God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the unique inheritance of the Levites challenge our understanding of what it means to be blessed by God?

2. In what ways can we, like the Levites, find our inheritance and identity in God rather than in material possessions?

3. How does the concept of offerings and sacrifices in the Old Testament relate to our worship practices today?

4. What can we learn from the Levites about living a life set apart for God's service in our current context?

5. How does the New Testament concept of believers as a "royal priesthood" connect to the role and inheritance of the Levites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 18:20-24
This passage outlines God's instructions to Aaron and the Levites regarding their inheritance, emphasizing that they would not receive land but would be sustained by the offerings of the people.

Deuteronomy 18:1-2
These verses reiterate that the Levites have no portion or inheritance with Israel because the LORD is their inheritance.

1 Peter 2:9
This New Testament verse speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the unique calling and inheritance of the Levites.