Numbers 35:8

The cities that you apportion from the territory of the Israelites should be given to the Levites in proportion to the inheritance of each tribe: more from a larger tribe and less from a smaller one."

Study Bible

The cities that you apportion from the territory of the Israelites
This phrase refers to the allocation of specific cities within the Promised Land to the Levites. The Levites, being the priestly tribe, did not receive a large contiguous territory like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities scattered throughout Israel. This ensured their presence and priestly duties were accessible to all Israelites, facilitating worship and maintaining the spiritual health of the nation. This distribution also reflects the principle of communal responsibility for spiritual leadership.

should be given to the Levites
The Levites were set apart for religious duties, serving in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. They were not to engage in typical agricultural or commercial activities, so they required support from the other tribes. This arrangement underscores the importance of spiritual service and the community's role in sustaining those dedicated to it. The Levites' role as mediators between God and the people prefigures the mediating work of Christ, who is our ultimate High Priest.

in proportion to the inheritance of each tribe
This phrase indicates a fair and equitable distribution based on the size and resources of each tribe. Larger tribes were expected to provide more cities, while smaller tribes provided fewer. This principle of proportionality ensured that the burden of supporting the Levites was shared according to each tribe's capacity. It reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and fairness, as seen in the New Testament teaching of giving according to one's means (2 Corinthians 8:12-14).

more from a larger tribe and less from a smaller one.
This final phrase reiterates the principle of proportionality and fairness. It acknowledges the varying capacities of the tribes and ensures that the support of the Levites does not become an undue burden on any single tribe. This system of distribution also highlights the unity and interdependence of the tribes, as they collectively support the spiritual leadership of the nation. This mirrors the New Testament concept of the body of Christ, where each member contributes according to their gifts and abilities (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were not given a specific territory like other tribes but were instead given cities to dwell in.

2. Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel, each receiving a portion of the Promised Land as their inheritance.

3. Tribes of Israel
The twelve tribes, each with varying sizes and land allocations, responsible for providing cities to the Levites.

4. Cities of Refuge
Among the cities given to the Levites, some were designated as cities of refuge, providing asylum for those accused of manslaughter.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

Proportional Giving
The principle of proportionality in giving reflects fairness and equity, ensuring that each tribe contributes according to its capacity. This can be applied to how we give and serve in our communities today.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites were responsible for the welfare of the Levites, highlighting the importance of supporting those dedicated to spiritual service. This teaches us to value and support our spiritual leaders and workers.

God's Provision
God's provision for the Levites through the cities given by the tribes demonstrates His care for those who serve Him. We can trust in God's provision for our needs as we serve Him faithfully.

Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy, providing protection for the innocent while upholding the law. This encourages us to seek justice tempered with compassion in our dealings with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the principle of proportional giving in Numbers 35:8 apply to our financial and time commitments in the church today?

2. In what ways can we support those who are dedicated to full-time ministry, similar to how the Israelites supported the Levites?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge reflect God's character, and how can we create environments of refuge and safety in our communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the allocation of cities to the Levites about God's provision and our trust in His plans?

5. How do the roles and responsibilities of the Levites compare to the roles of spiritual leaders in the New Testament, and what implications does this have for the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Deuteronomy 18:1-2
Explains the Levites' unique inheritance, emphasizing their role and provision through the offerings of the people.

Hebrews 7:5
Discusses the Levitical priesthood and their right to receive tithes from the people, connecting to their provision through the cities.