In the biblical narrative, the provision for priests and Levites is a significant aspect of the covenantal relationship between God and the people of Israel. The tribe of Levi was set apart for religious duties, with the priests coming from the lineage of Aaron, Moses' brother. The Levites were responsible for various tasks related to the tabernacle (and later the temple), including its maintenance and the facilitation of worship.

Levitical Cities and Pasturelands

The Levites were not given a specific territory like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were allocated 48 cities scattered throughout the land, along with surrounding pasturelands for their livestock. Numbers 35:2-3 states, "Command the Israelites to give the Levites cities to live in from the inheritance the Israelites will possess. You are also to give the Levites pasturelands around the cities. The cities will be theirs to live in, and the pasturelands will be for their cattle, flocks, and all their other livestock."

Tithes and Offerings

The primary means of support for the Levites came from the tithes of the Israelites. The people were commanded to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to the Levites, as they had no inheritance of their own. Numbers 18:21 declares, "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."

In turn, the Levites were required to offer a tenth of the tithes they received to the priests, as stated in Numbers 18:26 : "Speak to the Levites and tell them: ‘When you receive from the Israelites the tithe I have given you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as the LORD’s offering."

Portions from Sacrifices

The priests, specifically, were provided for through portions of the sacrifices and offerings brought by the people. Leviticus 7:31-34 outlines the portions designated for the priests, including the breast and right thigh of the peace offerings. Additionally, the priests received the firstfruits and other dedicated offerings, as seen in Deuteronomy 18:3-5 : "This shall be the priests’ share from the people who offer sacrifices, whether bull or 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. For the LORD your God has chosen him and his descendants out of all your tribes to stand and minister in His name always."

Sabbath and Jubilee Provisions

The Sabbath and Jubilee years also provided for the Levites. During these times, the land was to rest, and the people were reminded of their dependence on God’s provision. Leviticus 25:6 notes that the Sabbath produce was for everyone, including the Levites: "Whatever the land yields during the Sabbath year will be food for you—for yourself, your manservant and maidservant, the hired hand or foreigner who stays with you."

Support in the New Testament

The New Testament continues the theme of supporting those who minister in spiritual matters. While the Levitical priesthood is fulfilled in Christ, the principle of providing for those who serve in ministry remains. 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 states, "Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of its food, and those who attend to the altar share in the offerings? In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel."

The provision for priests and Levites underscores the importance of supporting those dedicated to spiritual service, ensuring they can focus on their God-given duties without the distraction of material concerns.