Numbers 18:11

And this is yours as well: the offering of their gifts, along with all the wave offerings of the Israelites. I have given this to you and your sons and daughters as a permanent statute. Every ceremonially clean person in your household may eat it.

Study Bible

And this is yours
This phrase signifies a divine allocation. In the Hebrew context, the word "yours" (לְךָ, lecha) indicates possession and responsibility. God is establishing a clear delineation of what belongs to the priests, emphasizing His provision and care for those serving in the priestly role.

the offering of their gift
The Hebrew word for "offering" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah) refers to a contribution or a lifted portion. This was a sacred portion set aside for the priests, symbolizing the people's dedication to God. The "gift" (מַתָּנָה, mattanah) underscores the voluntary and generous nature of the Israelites' offerings, reflecting their gratitude and worship.

all the wave offerings of the Israelites
The "wave offerings" (תְּנוּפָה, tenuphah) were portions of sacrifices that were waved before the Lord as a symbolic gesture of presentation and consecration. This act was a physical demonstration of offering something to God and then receiving it back for use by the priests, signifying God's acceptance and blessing.

I have given them to you and to your sons and daughters
This phrase highlights the hereditary nature of the priestly provisions. The use of "I have given" (נָתַתִּי, natati) emphasizes God's sovereign choice and generosity. The inclusion of "sons and daughters" indicates the familial and generational aspect of the priestly service, ensuring the sustenance and continuity of the priestly line.

as a permanent statute
The term "permanent statute" (חֻקַּת עוֹלָם, chukat olam) signifies an enduring ordinance. This was not a temporary provision but an everlasting decree, underscoring the unchanging nature of God's laws and His faithfulness to His promises.

This is an everlasting covenant of salt
The "everlasting covenant" (בְּרִית עוֹלָם, berit olam) denotes a perpetual agreement. The "covenant of salt" (מֶלַח, melach) is a metaphor for preservation and purity. In ancient Near Eastern culture, salt was a symbol of enduring agreements due to its preservative qualities. This covenant signifies the enduring and unbreakable nature of God's promises to the priestly line.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" (לִפְנֵי יְהוָה, lifnei YHWH) indicates the divine witness and approval of this covenant. It underscores the sacredness and solemnity of the agreement, reminding the priests that their service and sustenance are under God's watchful eye.

for you and your offspring
This final phrase reiterates the personal and generational promise. The provision is not only for the current priests but also for their descendants, ensuring the continuity of God's care and the priestly service. It highlights the importance of legacy and faithfulness in the service of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are given specific laws and statutes to follow.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who establishes laws and statutes for His people and their worship practices.

3. Aaron and His Descendants
The priestly family chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple, responsible for offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the worship practices.

4. Wave Offering
A type of offering presented to the LORD, symbolically waved before Him, signifying dedication and consecration.

5. Covenant of Salt
A symbol of an enduring and unbreakable covenant, representing preservation and permanence in the relationship between God and His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Role of Offerings
Offerings in the Old Testament were not just ritualistic but were acts of worship and dedication to God. They remind us of the importance of giving our best to God in all aspects of life.

The Perpetual Nature of God's Promises
The covenant of salt signifies the eternal and unchanging nature of God's promises. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness and His enduring commitment to His people.

Priestly Responsibilities and Privileges
Aaron and his descendants were given specific roles and privileges, highlighting the importance of obedience and service in God's kingdom. As believers, we are called to serve God faithfully in our own roles.

Symbolism of Salt
Salt as a preservative and purifying agent symbolizes the believer's role in the world. We are called to preserve the truth and purity of the Gospel in our lives and communities.

Generational Blessings and Responsibilities
The statute was for Aaron's offspring, reminding us of the importance of passing down faith and responsibilities to future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "covenant of salt" deepen your understanding of God's promises to His people?

2. In what ways can you offer your "wave offerings" to God in your daily life, symbolizing dedication and consecration?

3. How does the role of Aaron and his descendants as priests relate to the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers?

4. What are some practical ways you can be the "salt of the earth" in your community, preserving and promoting the truth of the Gospel?

5. How can you ensure that the faith and responsibilities entrusted to you are passed down to the next generation in your family or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2:13
Discusses the use of salt in offerings, emphasizing its role in the covenant and its preservative qualities.

2 Chronicles 13:5
Refers to the covenant of salt as a symbol of God's enduring promise to David and his descendants.

Matthew 5:13
Jesus calls His followers the "salt of the earth," connecting the idea of preservation and influence to the lives of believers.