Joshua 21:26

In all, ten cities, together with their pasturelands, were given to the rest of the Kohathite clans.

Study Bible

All ten cities
This phrase highlights the completeness and sufficiency of God's provision for the Kohathite clans. The number ten often symbolizes completeness in the Bible, suggesting that God's provision is perfect and lacking nothing. Historically, the allocation of cities to the Levites, including the Kohathites, was a fulfillment of God's promise to provide for those who served Him. It reflects the divine order and care for those dedicated to His service.

along with their pasturelands
The inclusion of pasturelands signifies the practical and necessary provision for the sustenance of the Levites and their families. In ancient Israel, pasturelands were essential for grazing livestock, which was a primary source of food and economic stability. This provision underscores God's attention to the physical needs of His people, ensuring that those who ministered in spiritual matters were not neglected in their material needs.

were given
This phrase indicates the act of granting or bestowing, emphasizing that the cities and pasturelands were not earned but were a gift. This reflects the grace of God in providing for His people. The Levites, who had no inheritance of land like the other tribes, relied on God's provision through the generosity of the other tribes, illustrating the principle of mutual support within the community of faith.

to the rest of the Kohathite clans
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Kohath, a son of Levi. This phrase specifies that the allocation was for the remaining Kohathite clans, distinct from those who had already received their inheritance. It highlights the orderly distribution of resources among God's people, ensuring that each group received its due portion. This reflects God's justice and fairness, ensuring that all who serve Him are cared for according to His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kohathites
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. Levitical Cities
Cities allocated to the Levites throughout the tribes of Israel. These cities provided the Levites with places to live and pasturelands for their livestock.

3. Pasturelands
Areas surrounding the Levitical cities designated for the grazing of livestock, ensuring the Levites had means to sustain themselves.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites demonstrates God's provision for those dedicated to His service. It reminds us that God provides for those who serve Him faithfully.

The Importance of Community Support
The Levites relied on the other tribes for their sustenance, highlighting the importance of community support within the body of believers. We are called to support those who minister among us.

Inheritance Beyond Material Wealth
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the privilege of serving God. This teaches us to value spiritual inheritance and service to God over material possessions.

Faithfulness in Assigned Roles
The Kohathites had specific duties related to the sanctuary. This encourages us to be faithful in the roles God assigns us, knowing each role is vital to His plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Kohathites reflect God's care for those who serve Him? Consider how this applies to modern-day ministry support.

2. In what ways can we, as a church community, better support those who are dedicated to full-time ministry, similar to the support given to the Levites?

3. Reflect on the concept of spiritual inheritance. How can we prioritize our spiritual inheritance over material wealth in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Kohathites' specific roles in the sanctuary that apply to our own roles within the church?

5. How do the provisions for the Levites in Joshua 21:26 connect with the broader biblical theme of God's provision for His people? Consider other scriptures that illustrate this theme.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command from God to Moses regarding the allocation of cities to the Levites, providing a foundational understanding of why the Levites received these cities.

1 Chronicles 6
Chronicles the genealogies and duties of the Levites, including the Kohathites, offering further insight into their roles and responsibilities.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the provisions for the Levites, emphasizing their dependence on the offerings and support from the other tribes, as they had no inheritance of land like the other tribes.