Joshua 21:31

Helkath, and Rehob--four cities, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

Helkath
Helkath is one of the cities allocated to the Levites from the tribe of Asher. The name "Helkath" means "portion" or "inheritance," which is fitting given its designation as a Levitical city. The Levites were given cities throughout Israel as they did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes. This allocation reflects the importance of the Levites' role in religious and communal life, serving as priests and teachers of the Law. Helkath's location in the territory of Asher places it in the northern part of Israel, an area known for its fertile land and proximity to trade routes.

and Rehob
Rehob is another city given to the Levites in the territory of Asher. The name "Rehob" means "broad" or "spacious," suggesting a place of openness or abundance. Rehob is mentioned in other parts of the Bible, such as in the context of the spies sent by Moses to explore the land (Numbers 13:21). Its inclusion as a Levitical city underscores the distribution of spiritual leadership throughout the land, ensuring that the teachings and practices of the faith were accessible to all tribes. The presence of Levites in Rehob would have provided spiritual guidance and maintained the religious practices among the people.

four cities
The mention of "four cities" refers to the total number of cities given to the Levites from the tribe of Asher. This allocation is part of a larger distribution of 48 cities to the Levites throughout Israel, as commanded by God (Numbers 35:7). The number four may symbolize completeness or universality, indicating that the Levites' presence was meant to permeate the entire nation. This distribution ensured that the Levites could fulfill their duties of teaching, worship, and maintaining the spiritual health of the nation.

together with their pasturelands
The inclusion of "pasturelands" highlights the practical needs of the Levites, who, unlike other tribes, did not have a large inheritance of land for agriculture. These pasturelands provided for their livestock, which was essential for their sustenance and for the offerings required in their religious duties. The provision of pasturelands alongside the cities reflects God's care for the Levites' physical needs, allowing them to focus on their spiritual responsibilities. This arrangement also symbolizes the integration of spiritual and everyday life, as the Levites' presence and work were meant to influence all aspects of Israelite society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Helkath
A city allocated to the Levites within the territory of the tribe of Asher. It served as a place for the Levites to live and perform their priestly duties.

2. Rehob
Another city given to the Levites in the land of Asher. Like Helkath, it provided a home and resources for the Levitical priests.

3. Levites
The priestly tribe of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were given cities throughout Israel instead of a contiguous territory.

4. Tribe of Asher
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, whose land included the cities of Helkath and Rehob. The tribe was responsible for supporting the Levites in their midst.

5. Pasturelands
The surrounding lands of these cities, used for grazing livestock, which were essential for the sustenance of the Levites and their families.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's care and provision for those who serve Him. Just as the Levites were provided for, God ensures that those who dedicate their lives to His service are supported.

Community Responsibility
The tribes of Israel were responsible for supporting the Levites, teaching us the importance of community and mutual support within the body of Christ.

Spiritual Inheritance
While the Levites did not receive a large territory, their inheritance was spiritual and tied to their service to God. This reminds us that our true inheritance is spiritual and eternal.

Integration of Faith and Life
The presence of Levites in various cities ensured that spiritual guidance was integrated into daily life, encouraging us to incorporate our faith into every aspect of our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting our church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the responsibility of the tribes to support the Levites parallel the responsibilities of Christians to support one another in the church community?

3. Considering the spiritual inheritance of the Levites, how can we prioritize our spiritual inheritance over material possessions in our daily lives?

4. How can we ensure that our faith is integrated into all areas of our life, similar to how the Levites were integrated into the communities of Israel?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in your life. How can this encourage you to trust Him more fully in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the commandment from God to allocate cities to the Levites, emphasizing their role and the importance of their sustenance.

1 Chronicles 6
Provides a genealogical record of the Levites and lists the cities given to them, reinforcing the distribution of cities as seen in Joshua 21.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the provisions for the Levites, highlighting their dependence on the offerings and support from the other tribes.