The concept of "The Portion for the Priests" is rooted in the Old Testament, where God established specific provisions for the Levitical priesthood. These provisions were designed to support the priests and Levites, who were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, and who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel.

Biblical Foundation

The primary biblical foundation for the portion for the priests is found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. In Leviticus 7:35-36 , it is stated: "This is the portion of the offerings made by fire to the LORD for Aaron and his sons on the day they were presented to serve the LORD as priests. On that day the LORD commanded that the Israelites give this to them as their perpetual portion for the generations to come."

Types of Portions

1. Sacrificial Offerings: The priests were entitled to specific parts of the sacrificial offerings. 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 eaten in a clean place.

2. Tithes: The Levites received tithes from the Israelites as their inheritance, as they had no share in the land. 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."

3. Firstfruits and Firstborn: The firstfruits of the harvest and the firstborn of animals were also designated for the priests. Deuteronomy 18:3-5 specifies, "This shall be the priests’ share from the people, from those 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."

4. Dedicated Gifts: Items and offerings dedicated to the Lord were also part of the priests' portion. Numbers 18:8 mentions, "Then the LORD said to Aaron, 'I have given you charge of the contributions made to Me. As an inheritance for your sons, I have given you all the holy offerings of the Israelites.'"

Purpose and Significance

The portion for the priests served several purposes. It provided for the material needs of the priests and Levites, allowing them to focus on their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor. This system underscored the principle that those who serve at the altar should share in the offerings of the altar (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

Moreover, the portions given to the priests symbolized the Israelites' acknowledgment of God's provision and their dependence on Him. By supporting the priesthood, the people of Israel were reminded of their covenant relationship with God and their responsibility to maintain the worship and service of the Lord.

New Testament Reflection

While the New Testament does not prescribe a similar system for church leaders, the principle of supporting those who minister spiritually is echoed. In 1 Timothy 5:17-18 , Paul writes, "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, 'Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,' and 'The worker deserves his wages.'"

The Portion for the Priests, therefore, reflects a divinely instituted system of provision and honor for those dedicated to spiritual service, a principle that continues to resonate in various forms within the Christian community today.