Numbers 35:7

The total number of cities you give the Levites will be forty-eight, with their corresponding pasturelands.

Study Bible

forty-eight cities
The phrase "forty-eight cities" refers to the specific number of cities allocated to the Levites among the tribes of Israel. In the Hebrew context, the number forty-eight is significant as it represents completeness and provision. The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties, did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were given these cities to dwell in, scattered throughout the land of Israel. This distribution ensured that the Levites could fulfill their priestly and teaching roles among all the tribes, symbolizing God's provision and the importance of spiritual leadership within the community.

together with their pasturelands
The inclusion of "together with their pasturelands" highlights the practical needs of the Levites. The Hebrew term for pasturelands, "migrash," refers to the open lands surrounding the cities, used for grazing livestock and agriculture. This provision underscores God's care for the Levites' sustenance and livelihood, allowing them to focus on their spiritual duties without neglecting their physical needs. Historically, this arrangement reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where land and livestock were essential for survival and prosperity. It also illustrates the balance between spiritual service and practical living, a principle that resonates with the holistic approach to life encouraged in Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
The tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle, and later the Temple. They were not given a specific territory like other tribes but were instead given cities to dwell in.

2. Cities of Refuge
Among the forty-eight cities given to the Levites, six were designated as cities of refuge, where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum.

3. Pasturelands
The areas surrounding the Levitical cities, provided for the sustenance of their livestock, ensuring the Levites could maintain their livelihood.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who, under God's direction, allocated these cities to the Levites as part of the broader division of the Promised Land.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and where the Israelites settled after their exodus from Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's care and provision for those dedicated to His service. It reminds us of the importance of supporting those who minister in spiritual capacities today.

The Role of the Levites as Mediators
The Levites served as mediators between God and the people, a role that foreshadows the ultimate mediation of Christ. This calls us to appreciate and understand the significance of Christ's priestly role in our lives.

Community Responsibility
The other tribes were responsible for providing for the Levites, illustrating the principle of communal support and interdependence within the body of believers.

Sanctity of Life and Justice
The cities of refuge highlight the value God places on life and justice, providing a system for protection and fair trial. This encourages us to uphold justice and mercy in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision of cities for the Levites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting our church leaders today?

2. In what ways do the cities of refuge illustrate God's justice and mercy, and how can we implement these values in our own lives and communities?

3. How does the role of the Levites as mediators between God and the Israelites point to the work of Jesus Christ, and what does this mean for our relationship with God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the communal responsibility of the Israelites to provide for the Levites, and how can this be applied to the church community today?

5. How does the allocation of pasturelands to the Levites demonstrate the balance between spiritual and practical needs, and how can we ensure this balance in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter details the actual allocation of the forty-eight cities to the Levites, fulfilling the command given in Numbers 35.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the role and provision for the Levites, emphasizing their dependence on the offerings and support from the other tribes.

Hebrews 7
Reflects on the priesthood, drawing connections between the Levitical priesthood and the priesthood of Jesus Christ, highlighting the fulfillment and transformation of these Old Testament roles.