What is the meaning of Numbers 18:14? Every • The term “Every” signals an all-inclusive scope; nothing that falls within the defined category is exempt. • This mirrors God’s comprehensive claim over certain offerings in Leviticus 27:28: “But nothing that a man owns and devotes to the LORD… may be sold or redeemed.” • It reminds Israel that selective obedience is not acceptable; everything God designates is to be handled exactly as He commands, just as Exodus 22:29 states, “You must not hold back offerings from your granaries or vats.” Devoted thing • A “devoted thing” (ḥerem) is something irrevocably set apart to the LORD—often through a vow or by God’s direct decree. • Such items could be people, animals, land, or spoils of war (Joshua 6:17–19). • Because they are “devoted,” they cannot return to ordinary use (Deuteronomy 13:17). • God assigns these objects to the priests for their sustenance, linking spiritual service with physical provision, as seen earlier in Numbers 18:9–10. In Israel • The phrase grounds the command within the covenant community, distinguishing Israel from surrounding nations that misused sacred things. • It underscores collective responsibility; every tribe must honor this directive (Deuteronomy 12:5–6). • By locating the practice “in Israel,” the text ties priestly provision to the land and people God has chosen (Deuteronomy 7:6). Belongs to you • “You” addresses Aaron and his sons—the priestly line—affirming their God-given right to receive what is devoted (Numbers 18:8: “I give you charge of My offerings…”). • This is not a privilege earned but a provision granted by covenant, safeguarding priests from dependence on worldly income (Deuteronomy 18:1). • The transfer also benefits worshipers: by giving to the priests, they tangibly surrender what is holy to God (Proverbs 3:9). Summary Numbers 18:14 declares that absolutely everything irrevocably set apart to the LORD within Israel is assigned to the priests. The verse secures the priests’ livelihood, reinforces total obedience in handling sacred things, and weaves together worship, community, and divine provision. |
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