Numbers 18:20

Then the LORD said to Aaron, "You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites.

Study Bible

The LORD said to Aaron
This phrase establishes the divine authority and direct communication from God to Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. The Hebrew name for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. Aaron, as the high priest, represents the priestly line chosen by God, highlighting the special role and responsibilities bestowed upon him and his descendants.

You will have no inheritance in their land
The term "inheritance" in Hebrew is "nachalah," which refers to a possession or property passed down through generations. In the context of ancient Israel, land was a crucial aspect of identity and sustenance. By stating that Aaron and his descendants would have no land inheritance, God sets the Levites apart from the other tribes, who each received a portion of the Promised Land. This separation underscores the unique calling of the Levites to serve God directly, rather than being tied to earthly possessions.

nor will you have any portion among them
The word "portion" in Hebrew is "cheleq," meaning a share or allotment. This reiterates the idea that the Levites, unlike the other tribes, would not receive a territorial share. Historically, this meant that the Levites were to rely on the tithes and offerings of the people for their sustenance, reinforcing their dependence on God and their role as spiritual leaders and mediators between God and Israel.

I am your portion and your inheritance
Here, God Himself declares to be the "portion" and "inheritance" for Aaron and the Levites. This profound statement elevates their calling, as their reward and sustenance come directly from God, not from material possessions. The Hebrew word "ani" (I) emphasizes the personal nature of this promise. This divine provision signifies a deeper spiritual truth: the ultimate fulfillment and satisfaction for God's people are found in Him alone, not in worldly wealth or land.

among the Israelites
This phrase situates the Levites within the broader community of Israel. Although they do not share in the land inheritance, they hold a vital role "among" the people as spiritual leaders and servants of the tabernacle. This positioning highlights the interconnectedness of the tribes and the essential function of the Levites in maintaining the spiritual health and covenant relationship of the nation with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks directly to Aaron in this passage.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, representing the Levitical priesthood.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, among whom the Levites serve but do not receive a land inheritance.

4. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land that God is giving to the Israelites, where each tribe receives a portion except the Levites.

5. The Levitical Priesthood
The tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service to God, receiving no land inheritance.

Teaching Points

Divine Inheritance Over Earthly Possessions
The Levites' lack of land inheritance highlights the value of spiritual over material wealth. Believers today are called to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly possessions.

God as Our Portion
Just as God was the portion for the Levites, He is our portion today. This means finding our identity, security, and satisfaction in Him rather than in temporal things.

Priestly Calling of Believers
As New Testament believers, we are called to a priestly role, serving God and others. This involves living a life set apart, much like the Levites, with God as our ultimate inheritance.

Trust in God's Provision
The Levites depended on God's provision through the offerings of the people. Similarly, we are to trust in God's provision for our needs, both physical and spiritual.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God being our portion challenge the way we view material possessions and wealth?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, live out our priestly calling in our daily lives?

3. How does understanding God as our inheritance influence our trust in His provision?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to prioritize our relationship with God over worldly pursuits?

5. How can the example of the Levites encourage us to find contentment in God's presence and promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 10:9
Reinforces the idea that the Levites have no land inheritance because the LORD is their inheritance.

Joshua 13:33
Reiterates that the tribe of Levi receives no land because the LORD is their inheritance.

Psalm 16:5
David speaks of the LORD as his portion, echoing the sentiment of divine inheritance.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the Levitical calling.