1 Chronicles 6:70

And from the half-tribe of Manasseh the remaining clans of the Kohathites were given Aner and Bileam, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

And from the half-tribe of Manasseh
The half-tribe of Manasseh refers to the division of the tribe of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, into two parts. This division is significant in the history of Israel, as it reflects the allocation of land on both sides of the Jordan River. The half-tribe mentioned here is the one settled on the western side of the Jordan. This allocation underscores God's provision and the fulfillment of His promises to the descendants of Joseph, highlighting the importance of inheritance and divine faithfulness.

they were given
The phrase "they were given" indicates a transfer of land, a common practice in the distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. This act of giving is rooted in the Hebrew word "nathan," which means to give, bestow, or grant. It reflects the divine authority and order in the distribution of land, emphasizing that the land ultimately belongs to God, who apportions it according to His will.

Aner and Bileam
Aner and Bileam are specific locations within the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh. These towns, along with their surrounding pasturelands, were designated for the Kohathites, a clan within the Levites. The mention of these towns highlights the detailed and organized manner in which the land was distributed, ensuring that the needs of the Levitical priesthood were met. This allocation underscores the importance of supporting those who serve in the temple, as they had no inheritance of their own.

together with their pasturelands
The inclusion of pasturelands is significant, as it provided the necessary resources for the Kohathites to sustain their livestock and, by extension, their families. The Hebrew term for pasturelands, "migrash," refers to open land surrounding a city, used for grazing. This provision reflects God's care for the practical needs of the Levites, ensuring they had the means to live and serve without the burden of agricultural labor, thus allowing them to focus on their spiritual duties.

for the clans of the remaining Kohathites
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Kohath, the son of Levi. This specific mention of the "remaining Kohathites" indicates a subset of the Kohathite clan that had not yet received their allocation of land. The Levites, including the Kohathites, were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities and pasturelands throughout Israel. This arrangement highlights the special role of the Levites in Israelite society, serving as a reminder of the importance of spiritual leadership and the community's responsibility to support those who minister in God's name.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
This refers to one of the two divisions of the tribe of Manasseh, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe was split between land on the east and west of the Jordan River.

2. Aner
A city given to the Levites, specifically to the Kohathites, as part of their inheritance. It was located in the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh.

3. Bileam
Another city allocated to the Kohathites, also within the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh.

4. Kohathites
A clan within the Levites, descendants of Kohath, who was one of the sons of Levi. The Kohathites had specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple.

5. Pasturelands
These were lands surrounding the cities given to the Levites for their livestock, as they did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites demonstrates God's faithfulness in providing for those who serve Him. This reminds us that God is attentive to the needs of His people, especially those dedicated to His service.

The Role of the Levites
The Levites were set apart for specific duties related to worship and the tabernacle. This calls us to recognize and respect the roles and responsibilities within the body of Christ today.

Community Support and Responsibility
The provision for the Levites came from the other tribes, illustrating the importance of community support. In the church, we are called to support one another, especially those in ministry.

Inheritance Beyond Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the Lord Himself. This challenges us to value our spiritual inheritance in Christ above material possessions.

Faithfulness in Fulfilling God's Commands
The distribution of cities to the Levites was a fulfillment of God's command. It encourages us to be faithful in carrying out God's instructions in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for the Levites in 1 Chronicles 6:70 reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites in the Old Testament parallel the roles within the church today, and how can we honor these roles?

3. How does the concept of community support in the allocation of cities to the Levites challenge us to support one another in our local church?

4. What does the Levites' inheritance teach us about valuing our spiritual inheritance in Christ, and how can this perspective influence our daily lives?

5. How can we ensure that we are faithful in fulfilling God's commands, as seen in the distribution of cities to the Levites, in our personal and communal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter provides a parallel account of the allocation of cities to the Levites, including the cities of Aner and Bileam. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to provide for the Levites.

Numbers 35
This passage outlines the command from God to give cities and pasturelands to the Levites, emphasizing their unique role and provision within Israel.

Deuteronomy 18
This chapter discusses the inheritance of the Levites, underscoring their dependence on the Lord and the community for their sustenance.