The "Cities of the Priests" refers to specific towns allocated to the Levitical priesthood in ancient Israel. These cities were designated as part of the broader distribution of Levitical cities, which were given to the tribe of Levi, the tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service. The Levites, including the priests, did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given cities scattered throughout the land, allowing them to fulfill their religious and educational roles among the people.

Biblical Foundation

The allocation of cities to the Levites, including the priests, is detailed in the Book of Joshua. According to Joshua 21, the Levites received forty-eight cities with their surrounding pasturelands. Among these, certain cities were specifically designated for the priests, who were descendants of Aaron, the first high priest. These priestly cities were strategically located to ensure that the priests could perform their duties and maintain the spiritual well-being of the nation.

Key Cities

1. Hebron: Located in the hill country of Judah, Hebron was one of the most significant cities given to the priests. It was also a city of refuge, providing asylum for those who accidentally committed manslaughter. Joshua 21:13 states, "So to the descendants of Aaron the priest they gave Hebron (a city of refuge for the manslayer), with its pasturelands, and Libnah."

2. Anathoth: Situated in the territory of Benjamin, Anathoth was another city given to the priests. It is notably the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah. Joshua 21:18 lists Anathoth among the cities given to the descendants of Aaron.

3. Gibeon: Also in the territory of Benjamin, Gibeon was a significant city for the priests. It was known for the Gibeonite deception during the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 9) and later became a center of worship during the reign of Solomon.

4. Juttah: Located in the hill country of Judah, Juttah was another city given to the priests. It is mentioned in Joshua 21:16 as part of the allocation to the descendants of Aaron.

Role and Significance

The cities of the priests served several important functions in ancient Israelite society. They were centers of religious instruction, where the priests taught the Law and guided the people in worship and moral conduct. The priests also performed sacrifices and maintained the rituals necessary for the atonement of sins and the maintenance of the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Moreover, the distribution of these cities throughout the land ensured that the spiritual influence of the priesthood was pervasive, reaching all the tribes of Israel. This arrangement underscored the centrality of worship and obedience to God's commandments in the life of the nation.

Theological Implications

The establishment of priestly cities highlights the importance of holiness and the mediatory role of the priesthood in the Old Testament. The priests acted as intermediaries between God and the people, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who would mediate a new covenant through His sacrificial death and resurrection. As Hebrews 4:14 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess."

In summary, the cities of the priests were integral to the spiritual and communal life of Israel, serving as hubs of religious activity and instruction, and pointing forward to the greater priestly ministry of Christ.