Joshua 21:19
New International Version
The total number of towns for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, came to thirteen, together with their pasturelands.

New Living Translation
So in all, thirteen towns with their pasturelands were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

English Standard Version
The cities of the descendants of Aaron, the priests, were in all thirteen cities with their pasturelands.

Berean Standard Bible
In all, thirteen cities, together with their pasturelands, were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

King James Bible
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

New King James Version
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their common-lands.

New American Standard Bible
All the cities of the sons of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.

NASB 1995
All the cities of the sons of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.

NASB 1977
All the cities of the sons of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.

Legacy Standard Bible
All the cities of the sons of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.

Amplified Bible
All the cities of the sons of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.

Christian Standard Bible
All thirteen cities with their pasturelands were for the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
All 13 cities with their pasturelands were for the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

American Standard Version
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

English Revised Version
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
In all, 13 cities with pasturelands were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

Good News Translation
Thirteen cities in all, with their pasture lands, were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

International Standard Version
All of the cities allocated to the priests, who were descendants of Aaron, numbered thirteen, along with their pasture lands.

NET Bible
The priests descended from Aaron received thirteen cities and their grazing areas.

New Heart English Bible
All the cities of the descendants of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

Webster's Bible Translation
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
In all, thirteen cities, together with their pasturelands, were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.

World English Bible
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their pasture lands.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
all the cities of the sons of Aaron the priests, [are] thirteen cities and their outskirts.

Young's Literal Translation
all the cities of the sons of Aaron the priests, are thirteen cities and their suburbs.

Smith's Literal Translation
All the cities of the sons of Aaron the priests, thirteen cities and their areas.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
All the cities together of the children of Aaron the priest, were thirteen, with their suburbs.

Catholic Public Domain Version
All the cities together of the sons of Aaron, the priest, were thirteen, with their suburbs.

New American Bible
These cities which with their pasture lands belonged to the priestly descendants of Aaron, were thirteen in all.

New Revised Standard Version
The towns of the descendants of Aaron—the priests—were thirteen in all, with their pasture lands.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priest, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
All the cities of the children of Aaron the Priest were thirteen, and their fields
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with the open land about them.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
All the cities of the sons of Aaron the priests, thirteen.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Forty-Eight Cities for the Levites
18Anathoth, and Almon—four cities, together with their pasturelands. 19In all, thirteen cities, together with their pasturelands, were given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron. 20The remaining Kohathite clans of the Levites were allotted these cities: From the tribe of Ephraim…

Cross References
Numbers 35:1-8
Again the LORD spoke to Moses on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho: / “Command the Israelites to give, from the inheritance they will possess, cities for the Levites to live in and pasturelands around the cities. / The cities will be for them to live in, and the pasturelands will be for their herds, their flocks, and all their other livestock. ...

Joshua 14:4
The descendants of Joseph became two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim. And no portion of the land was given to the Levites, except for cities in which to live, along with pasturelands for their flocks and herds.

1 Chronicles 6:54-60
Now these were the territories assigned to the descendants of Aaron from the Kohathite clan for their settlements, because the first lot fell to them: / They were given Hebron in the land of Judah and its surrounding pasturelands. / But the fields and villages around the city were given to Caleb son of Jephunneh. ...

Deuteronomy 18:1-2
The Levitical priests—indeed the whole tribe of Levi—shall have no portion or inheritance with Israel. They are to eat the food offerings to the LORD; that is their inheritance. / Although they have no inheritance among their brothers, the LORD is their inheritance, as He promised them.

Leviticus 25:32-34
As for the cities of the Levites, the Levites always have the right to redeem their houses in the cities they possess. / So whatever belongs to the Levites may be redeemed—a house sold in a city they possess—and must be released in the Jubilee, because the houses in the cities of the Levites are their possession among the Israelites. / But the open pastureland around their cities may not be sold, for this is their permanent possession.

Joshua 13:14
To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The food offerings to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, just as He had promised them.

Joshua 13:33
To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, just as He had promised them.

1 Chronicles 6:64-70
So the Israelites gave to the Levites these cities and their pasturelands. / They assigned by lot the cities named above from the tribes of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin. / And some of the clans of the Kohathites were given cities from the tribe of Ephraim for their territory: ...

Hebrews 7:5
Now the law commands the sons of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people—that is, from their brothers—though they too are descended from Abraham.

Numbers 18:20-24
Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites. / Behold, I have given to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the service of the Tent of Meeting. / No longer may the Israelites come near to the Tent of Meeting, or they will incur guilt and die. ...

Joshua 20:1-9
Then the LORD said to Joshua, / “Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses, / so that anyone who kills another unintentionally or accidentally may flee there. These will be your refuge from the avenger of blood. ...

1 Chronicles 6:77-81
The Merarites (the rest of the Levites) received the following: From the tribe of Zebulun they were given Rimmono and Tabor, together with their pasturelands. / From the tribe of Reuben east of the Jordan opposite Jericho they were given Bezer in the wilderness, Jahzah, / Kedemoth, and Mephaath, together with their pasturelands. ...

Ezekiel 44:28
In regard to their inheritance, I am their inheritance. You are to give them no possession in Israel, for I am their possession.

Matthew 10:10
Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions.

Luke 10:7
Stay at the same house, eating and drinking whatever you are offered. For the worker is worthy of his wages. Do not move around from house to house.


Treasury of Scripture

All the cities of the children of Aaron, the priests, were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

Joshua 21:5
And the rest of the children of Kohath had by lot out of the families of the tribe of Ephraim, and out of the tribe of Dan, and out of the half tribe of Manasseh, ten cities.

1 Chronicles 6:66
And the residue of the families of the sons of Kohath had cities of their coasts out of the tribe of Ephraim.

Jump to Previous
Aaron Children Cities Descendants Lands Open Pasture Pasturelands Priests Suburbs Thirteen Together Towns
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Aaron Children Cities Descendants Lands Open Pasture Pasturelands Priests Suburbs Thirteen Together Towns
Joshua 21
1. Forty-eight cities given by lot, out of the other tribes unto the Levites.
43. God gives the land, and rest unto the Israelites, according to his promise














In all, thirteen cities, together with their pasturelands,
The allocation of thirteen cities to the priests highlights the importance of providing for those who serve in the religious and spiritual leadership of Israel. These cities were scattered throughout the tribal territories, ensuring that the priests could minister to the people across the nation. The inclusion of pasturelands indicates the practical needs of the priests, allowing them to sustain livestock and support their families. This provision reflects the broader biblical principle of supporting those who dedicate their lives to God's service, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 9:13-14.

were given to the priests,
The priests were descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and were set apart for specific religious duties, including offering sacrifices and maintaining the sanctuary. Their role was crucial in mediating between God and the people, and their presence in these cities ensured that the spiritual needs of the Israelites were met. This allocation underscores the importance of the priesthood in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

the descendants of Aaron.
Aaron's lineage was chosen by God to serve as priests, a role that was both a privilege and a responsibility. This priestly line is significant in biblical history, as it points to the continuity of God's covenant promises. The priesthood of Aaron is also a type of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who mediates a new covenant between God and humanity, as explained in Hebrews 4:14-16. The faithfulness of the Aaronic priesthood in the Old Testament foreshadows the perfect priesthood of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Kohathite Clans
A division of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects.

2. Cities with Pasturelands
These were specific cities allocated to the Levites, including the Kohathites, as their inheritance. The pasturelands were essential for their livestock and sustenance.

3. Levitical Inheritance
Unlike the other tribes of Israel, the Levites did not receive a contiguous territory. Instead, they were given cities scattered throughout the other tribes' lands, emphasizing their role as spiritual leaders and servants.
Teaching Points
God's Provision and Faithfulness
God fulfills His promises to His people, as seen in the allocation of cities to the Levites. This reminds us of His faithfulness and provision in our lives.

Role of Spiritual Leadership
The Levites' scattered cities symbolize their role as spiritual leaders among the tribes. This calls us to recognize and support spiritual leadership within our communities.

Inheritance Beyond Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was not land but a spiritual role and relationship with God. This challenges us to value spiritual inheritance over material wealth.

Community and Interdependence
The distribution of Levitical cities among the tribes illustrates the importance of community and interdependence within the body of Christ.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Joshua 21:19?

2. How does Joshua 21:19 reflect God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises?

3. What role did the Levites play, as seen in Joshua 21:19?

4. How can we ensure our communities support spiritual leaders like in Joshua 21:19?

5. What connections exist between Joshua 21:19 and God's provision throughout Scripture?

6. How can we apply the principles of provision from Joshua 21:19 today?

7. What is the significance of the 13 cities given to the priests in Joshua 21:19?

8. How does Joshua 21:19 reflect God's provision for the Levites?

9. Why were the Levites given specific cities in Joshua 21:19?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Joshua 21?

11. How plausible is it that every tribe simultaneously relinquished these cities to the Levites (Joshua 21:8-16) without recorded opposition?

12. How does Deuteronomy 10:8's statement that Levi had no land inheritance align with inherited lands described in other biblical texts?

13. How can we confirm the historical accuracy of the 48 Levitical cities listed in Joshua 21:1-42, given limited archaeological evidence?

14. What are Jacob's prophetic blessings for his sons?
What Does Joshua 21:19 Mean
In all

Joshua records, “In all,” to underscore the completeness of God’s fulfillment of His promise. Nothing was left undone. Every allotment commanded in Numbers 35:1-8 was carried out precisely, and Joshua 21:43-45 affirms, “Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made… failed.”

• God’s provisions are never partial; He finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6).

• The phrase also draws our attention to unity: the entire nation cooperated to honor the LORD’s directive (Joshua 22:1-4).


thirteen cities

The priests of Aaron received thirteen cities—literally counted and geographically identifiable. This number fits within the larger total of forty-eight Levitical cities (Joshua 21:41; Numbers 35:7).

• The distribution shows order: Kehathite priests first (Joshua 21:4-5), then Gershonites and Merarites, reflecting God’s detailed organization.

• It reminds us that ministry happens among the people, not isolated from them (Deuteronomy 33:10; Matthew 5:14-16).


together with their pasturelands

Pasturelands surrounded each priestly city (Numbers 35:2). The LORD provided not only places to live but resources to live on—fields for livestock, gardens for food.

• God’s servants depend on His people’s generosity, yet ultimately on His faithfulness (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

• These green spaces offered refuge for worship and teaching, echoing Psalm 23:1-2: “He makes me lie down in green pastures.”


were given to the priests

The land wasn’t earned; it was “given,” highlighting grace. The nation recognized their responsibility to support those who ministered before the LORD (Deuteronomy 18:1-5).

• Priests represented the people, taught the Law, and interceded with sacrifices (Leviticus 10:11; Malachi 2:7).

• By giving land, Israel honored God Himself (Proverbs 3:9-10).


the descendants of Aaron

Only Aaron’s line could serve as high priests (Exodus 28:1). Their inheritance was unique: “The LORD Himself is their inheritance” (Deuteronomy 18:2).

• These cities enabled them to live among every tribe, making instruction accessible (2 Chronicles 17:7-9).

• The arrangement prefigures our Great High Priest, Jesus, who dwells among His people and intercedes perpetually (Hebrews 7:24-25).


summary

Joshua 21:19 reveals a faithful God who meticulously supplies for His servants. Thirteen cities, complete with pasturelands, were graciously granted to Aaron’s descendants so they could minister effectively among all Israel. The verse showcases God’s precision, generosity, and desire for His people to honor and support those who lead them in worship—truths still vital for believers today.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Altogether
כָּל־ (kāl-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

thirteen
שְׁלֹשׁ־ (šə·lōš-)
Number - feminine singular construct
Strong's 7969: Three, third, thrice

cities
עָרֵ֥י (‘ā·rê)
Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 5892: Excitement

with their pasturelands
וּמִגְרְשֵׁיהֶֽן׃ (ū·miḡ·rə·šê·hen)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person feminine plural
Strong's 4054: A suburb, the area around a, building, the margin of the sea

[were given] to the priests,
הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֑ים (hak·kō·hă·nîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3548: Priest

the descendants
בְנֵֽי־ (ḇə·nê-)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Aaron.
אַהֲרֹ֖ן (’a·hă·rōn)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 175: Aaron -- an elder brother of Moses


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OT History: Joshua 21:19 All the cities of the children (Josh. Jos)
Joshua 21:18
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