Joshua 21:10

to the descendants of Aaron from the Kohathite clans of the Levites, because the first lot fell to them:

Study Bible

to the descendants of Aaron
The descendants of Aaron were the priestly line within the tribe of Levi. Aaron, the brother of Moses, was appointed by God as the first high priest, and his descendants were given the responsibility of serving in the tabernacle and later the temple. This priestly lineage is significant in maintaining the religious and ceremonial practices of Israel. The role of the priests was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sanctuary. This lineage is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is described in the New Testament as our High Priest, mediating a new covenant between God and humanity.

from the Kohathite clans of the Levites
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, the others being the Gershonites and the Merarites. The Kohathites were responsible for the most sacred parts of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils. This responsibility highlights the importance of holiness and reverence in worship, as they were entrusted with the most sacred objects. The Levites, as a whole, were set apart for service to God, and the Kohathites had a special role within this service, emphasizing the theme of being chosen and set apart for God's purposes.

because the first lot fell to them
The casting of lots was a common biblical method for making decisions and determining God's will. It was believed that God controlled the outcome, ensuring that His divine plan was followed. The first lot falling to the descendants of Aaron signifies their priority and importance in the distribution of the Levitical cities. This method of allocation underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of His people, ensuring that each tribe and clan received their rightful inheritance according to His divine plan. The concept of divine selection and order is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God's providence and meticulous care in the establishment of His covenant community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and ancestor of the priestly line. His descendants were given specific cities as part of their inheritance.

2. Kohathite Clans
A division of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, one of Levi's sons. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects.

3. Levites
The tribe set apart for religious duties and service to the tabernacle and later the temple. They did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in.

4. The First Lot
Refers to the method of distributing the land among the tribes and clans of Israel. The casting of lots was seen as a way to discern God's will.

5. Inheritance
The allocation of land and cities to the tribes of Israel, which was a fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment
God's allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs and His care for those set apart for His service.

The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood's role in Israel was crucial for maintaining the spiritual health of the nation. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and service in the church today.

Inheritance Beyond Land
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the privilege of serving God. This teaches us to value spiritual blessings and service over material possessions.

Divine Order and Structure
The casting of lots and the specific allocation of cities show God's order and structure in His plans, reminding us of the importance of seeking His guidance in our decisions.

Community and Provision
The provision of cities for the Levites within other tribes' territories illustrates the importance of community support and interdependence among God's people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

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

3. How does the role of the priesthood in the Old Testament inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the church today?

4. What can we learn from the method of casting lots about seeking God's guidance in our own decision-making processes?

5. How can the concept of community support seen in the Levites' provision be applied to our church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 18
Discusses the duties and privileges of the Levites and the priesthood, providing context for why the descendants of Aaron received specific cities.

1 Chronicles 6
Lists the genealogies of the Levites, including the Kohathites, and details their assigned cities, reinforcing the historical and spiritual significance of their role.

Hebrews 7
Explores the priesthood of Jesus as superior to the Levitical priesthood, offering a New Testament perspective on the priestly lineage.