Numbers 35:2

"Command the Israelites to give, from the inheritance they will possess, cities for the Levites to live in and pasturelands around the cities.

Study Bible

Command the Israelites
The Hebrew word for "command" is "צַו" (tsav), which implies a direct order or decree. This is not a suggestion but a divine mandate from God to Moses, emphasizing the authority and seriousness of the instruction. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, are to follow His commands as a demonstration of their covenant relationship with Him. This command underscores the importance of obedience in the life of faith, reflecting a broader biblical theme where God's people are called to live according to His statutes.

to give the Levites cities
The Levites, descendants of Levi, were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities to dwell in. The Hebrew word for "give" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to bestow or grant. This act of giving cities to the Levites highlights the communal responsibility of the Israelites to support those who serve in the temple and religious life. It reflects the principle of providing for those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, a concept echoed in the New Testament regarding the support of ministers and church leaders.

to live in
The phrase "to live in" indicates a permanent dwelling place, not just a temporary residence. The Levites were to have a stable home base from which they could perform their duties. This stability was crucial for maintaining the religious and social order of Israel. The Hebrew root "יָשַׁב" (yashav) means to sit, dwell, or remain, suggesting a sense of belonging and permanence. It underscores the idea that those who serve God should have a secure place within the community.

from the inheritance the Israelites will possess
The term "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) refers to the land that God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This inheritance was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and covenant with His people. By allocating part of this inheritance to the Levites, the Israelites acknowledged that their blessings were from God and were to be shared for the common good. This sharing of the inheritance is a reminder of the communal nature of God's blessings and the call to generosity and stewardship.

You are also to give the Levites pasturelands around the cities
The provision of "pasturelands" (מִגְרָשׁ, migrash) was essential for the Levites' sustenance, allowing them to keep livestock and support themselves. These lands were not just for economic purposes but also served as a buffer zone, creating a sacred space around the cities. This allocation reflects God's care for the practical needs of His servants and the integration of spiritual and physical life. It also symbolizes the idea that those who serve God are to be provided for by the community, ensuring their well-being as they fulfill their spiritual duties.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are about to enter the Promised Land.

2. The Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties and service to God, not given a specific territory like other tribes.

3. Cities of Refuge
Specific cities designated for the Levites, which also serve as places of asylum for those accused of manslaughter.

4. Inheritance
The land that the Israelites are to possess, divided among the tribes, except for the Levites who receive cities and pasturelands.

5. Pasturelands
Areas surrounding the Levite cities, meant for their livestock and sustenance.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The Levites were provided for by God through the inheritance of the other tribes, showing God's care for those dedicated to His service.

The Role of the Levites
The Levites were set apart for spiritual leadership and service, reminding us of the importance of dedicating our lives to God's work.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were responsible for supporting the Levites, teaching us about the importance of supporting those in ministry today.

Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the Levites' inheritance was the Lord, believers today are called to find their inheritance in Christ, not in earthly possessions.

Sanctuary and Refuge
The cities of refuge symbolize the safety and sanctuary found in God, pointing to Christ as our ultimate refuge.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for the Levites in Numbers 35:2 reflect God's care for those who serve Him? How can we apply this principle in supporting our church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites as spiritual leaders parallel the role of believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge in Numbers 35 relate to the refuge we find in Christ? What does this teach us about God's justice and mercy?

4. Considering Deuteronomy 18:1-2, how can we understand the idea of God being our inheritance in a practical sense in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on Hebrews 7:11-28. How does the temporary nature of the Levitical priesthood enhance our understanding of the eternal priesthood of Jesus? How does this impact our faith and worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
Details the fulfillment of this command, listing the specific cities given to the Levites.

Deuteronomy 18:1-2
Explains that the Levites have no inheritance among the Israelites because the Lord is their inheritance.

Hebrews 7:11-28
Discusses the priesthood of the Levites and contrasts it with the priesthood of Jesus, highlighting the temporary nature of the Levitical priesthood.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the set-apart nature of the Levites.