The "Conclusion of Allotments" refers to the final distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as detailed in the Book of Joshua. This event marks the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the inheritance of the land of Canaan by their descendants. The allotment process is a significant moment in Israelite history, symbolizing the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to a settled existence in the land God had promised.

Biblical Context

The allotment of the land is primarily recorded in Joshua chapters 13 through 21. After the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, had conquered much of Canaan, the land was divided among the twelve tribes. The process was conducted by casting lots, a method believed to reflect God's sovereign will in the distribution. Joshua 14:2 states, "Their inheritance was assigned by lot in the presence of the LORD, as the LORD had commanded through Moses for the nine and a half tribes."

Tribal Allotments

1. Eastern Tribes: Before crossing the Jordan River, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan. This was in accordance with the agreement made with Moses, as recorded in Numbers 32.

2. Western Tribes: The remaining nine and a half tribes received their portions west of the Jordan. The land was divided among Judah, Ephraim, the other half of Manasseh, Benjamin, Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan.

3. Levitical Cities: The tribe of Levi, set apart for priestly duties, did not receive a territorial inheritance. Instead, they were given cities scattered throughout the other tribes, along with surrounding pasturelands. Joshua 21:3 notes, "So by the command of the LORD, the Israelites gave the Levites these cities and their pasturelands out of their own inheritance."

4. Caleb's Inheritance: Caleb, one of the two faithful spies, was granted Hebron as his inheritance, as promised by Moses. Joshua 14:13-14 records, "Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly."

Significance

The conclusion of the allotments signifies the establishment of Israel as a nation in their own land, fulfilling the covenantal promise made by God. It underscores the faithfulness of God in delivering His promises and the importance of obedience and faithfulness among His people. The division of the land also highlights the unity and diversity within the nation, as each tribe received its portion according to divine providence.

Spiritual Lessons

The allotment process teaches several spiritual lessons. It emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's timing and methods, as the Israelites had to wait for the right moment to receive their inheritance. It also illustrates the concept of stewardship, as each tribe was responsible for managing and cultivating their allotted land in accordance with God's laws. Furthermore, the inclusion of Levitical cities among all tribes serves as a reminder of the centrality of worship and the presence of God in the life of the community.

Conclusion of the Allotment Process

The allotment process concludes with the establishment of the cities of refuge and the final distribution of Levitical cities, as detailed in Joshua 20 and 21. Joshua 21:43-45 summarizes the fulfillment of God's promises: "So the LORD gave Israel all the land He had sworn to give their fathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. And the LORD gave them rest on every side, just as He had sworn to their fathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hands. Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; everything was fulfilled."