Numbers 35:4

The pasturelands around the cities you are to give the Levites will extend a thousand cubits from the wall on every side.

Study Bible

The pasturelands around the cities
The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties, were given specific cities to inhabit. These cities were surrounded by pasturelands, which were essential for their livestock and sustenance. This allocation reflects the importance of providing for those dedicated to spiritual service, ensuring they had the necessary resources to live and perform their duties. The concept of designated land for religious purposes is seen throughout Scripture, emphasizing the need for a community to support its spiritual leaders.

you are to give the Levites
The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given cities within the territories of other tribes. This arrangement highlights their unique role as priests and caretakers of the tabernacle, serving all of Israel rather than a single tribe. This distribution also symbolizes the idea that spiritual service is integrated into the life of the entire community, not isolated from it.

will extend a thousand cubits
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Therefore, a thousand cubits would be approximately 1,500 feet or 450 meters. This specific measurement ensured that the Levites had adequate space for their needs without encroaching too much on the land of the other tribes. The precision of this measurement underscores the order and structure God intended for the community.

from the wall on every side
The mention of the wall indicates that these cities were fortified, providing protection for the inhabitants. The extension of the pasturelands from the city walls on every side suggests a balanced and equitable distribution of land. This arrangement ensured that the Levites had access to resources while maintaining the integrity and security of the city. The concept of boundaries and protection is a recurring theme in Scripture, often symbolizing God's provision and care for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
A tribe of Israel set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle. They were not given a specific territory like other tribes but were provided with cities and surrounding pasturelands.

2. Cities of Refuge
These were specific cities designated for the Levites, which also served as places of asylum for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally.

3. Pasturelands
The lands surrounding the Levitical cities, designated for their livestock and sustenance, extending a thousand cubits from the city wall.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
God provides for those who serve Him, ensuring that the Levites, who had no inheritance of land, were cared for through designated cities and pasturelands.

Community and Responsibility
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites underscores the importance of community support and shared responsibility in God's design.

Spiritual Refuge
The cities of refuge symbolize the spiritual refuge we find in Christ, who offers protection and forgiveness for our sins.

Stewardship of Resources
The specific measurement of the pasturelands (a thousand cubits) reflects God's attention to detail and the importance of stewardship over the resources He provides.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision of cities and pasturelands for 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 do the cities of refuge point to the concept of spiritual refuge in Christ, and how can we seek refuge in Him in our daily lives?

3. How does the detailed allocation of land to the Levites demonstrate the importance of stewardship, and what practical steps can we take to be good stewards of the resources God has given us?

4. Considering the role of the Levites, how can we as believers serve our communities and support the spiritual needs of others?

5. How does the concept of community responsibility seen in the provision for the Levites challenge us to engage with and support our local church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter details the allocation of cities to the Levites, fulfilling the command given in Numbers 35.

Leviticus 25:32-34
Discusses the perpetual possession of the Levitical cities, emphasizing their unique role and provision among the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 7:11-28
Explores the priesthood of the Levites and contrasts it with the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, highlighting the temporary nature of the Levitical system.