The concept of the priestly portion and provision is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where God established specific guidelines for the sustenance and support of the Levitical priesthood. The tribe of Levi was set apart for religious duties, and as such, they did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, God provided for them through the offerings and tithes of the people.

Levitical Inheritance

The Levites were given no land inheritance because "the LORD is their inheritance, as He promised them" (Deuteronomy 18:2). This unique arrangement underscored their special role in Israel's spiritual life. The Levites were to focus on their duties in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, serving as mediators between God and the people.

Tithes and Offerings

The primary means of provision for the priests and Levites came through the tithes and offerings of the Israelites. Numbers 18:21 states, "Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do—the work of the Tent of Meeting." This tithe, a tenth of the produce and livestock, was collected from the people and served as the Levites' inheritance.

In addition to the tithes, the priests received portions of certain sacrifices. For instance, Leviticus 7:31-34 details that the breast of the wave offering and the right thigh of the peace offerings were given to the priests. These portions were considered holy and were to be consumed in a state of ritual purity.

Firstfruits and Other Contributions

The Israelites were also commanded to bring the firstfruits of their harvests to the priests. Deuteronomy 18:3-5 specifies, "This shall be the priests’ share from the people, from those who offer sacrifices, whether an ox or a sheep: They are to give the priest the shoulder, the jowls, and the stomach. You are to give him the firstfruits of your grain, new wine, and oil, and the first wool sheared from your flock."

These offerings were not merely practical provisions but also acts of worship, acknowledging God's provision and the priests' role in the spiritual life of the nation.

Cities and Pasturelands

While the Levites did not receive a tribal territory, they were allotted cities and surrounding pasturelands within the territories of the other tribes. Numbers 35:2-3 instructs, "Command the Israelites to give the Levites cities to live in from the inheritance they possess, and you are also to give the Levites pasturelands around the cities." These cities provided the Levites with places to live and land to sustain their livestock.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the principle of supporting those who minister spiritually is echoed. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 , draws a parallel between the Old Testament provision for priests and the support of Christian ministers: "Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of the temple’s offerings, and those who attend to the altar share in the altar’s offerings? In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel."

The priestly portion and provision reflect a divinely ordained system ensuring that those dedicated to spiritual service are supported by the community they serve. This system underscores the value placed on spiritual leadership and the communal responsibility to sustain those who guide and intercede for the people before God.