Topical Bible: Priest: Benefits of Part of the Plunder of War, Including Captives

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In the Old Testament, the role of the priest was integral to the religious and social life of Israel. Priests were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and instructing the people in the Law. As part of their duties and as a provision for their sustenance, priests were entitled to certain benefits, including a portion of the plunder from war.

Biblical Foundation

The allocation of war spoils to the priests is rooted in the instructions given by God to Moses. In Numbers 31, after the Israelites defeated the Midianites, God commanded Moses to take a census of the plunder and divide it between the soldiers who fought in the battle and the rest of the community. From the soldiers' portion, a tribute was to be given to the LORD, which was then allocated to the priests. Numbers 31:28 states, "Set aside a tribute for the LORD from the spoils, one out of every five hundred, whether people, cattle, donkeys, or sheep."

This directive highlights the principle that the priests, as representatives of God, were to receive a share of the spoils as a form of divine provision. The tribute served as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the priests' role in mediating between God and the people.

Inclusion of Captives

The inclusion of captives as part of the plunder is a sensitive topic, yet it is addressed in the biblical narrative. In the ancient Near Eastern context, captives were often considered part of the spoils of war. However, the Israelites were given specific instructions on how to treat captives, particularly women. Deuteronomy 21:10-14 provides guidelines for marrying a captive woman, ensuring her dignity and rights were respected.

While the priests did not directly receive captives as part of their portion, the broader context of war spoils, including captives, underscores the complex social and ethical dynamics of ancient warfare. The priests' share of the plunder was primarily focused on livestock and goods, which were used to support their ministry and the sacrificial system.

Theological Implications

The allocation of war spoils to the priests reflects the broader theological theme of God's provision for those who serve Him. The priests, who had no inheritance of land like the other tribes, relied on the offerings and tithes of the people, as well as portions of sacrifices and plunder, for their sustenance. This system emphasized the community's responsibility to support the spiritual leaders and maintain the worship of God.

Furthermore, the distribution of plunder, including the tribute to the priests, served as a tangible expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's role in granting victory. It reinforced the understanding that all blessings, including military success, ultimately come from God and should be used to honor Him.

Historical Context

In the historical context of ancient Israel, warfare was a common occurrence, and the distribution of plunder was a practical necessity. The priests' share of the spoils ensured that they could continue their sacred duties without the distraction of economic concerns. This provision also reinforced the social structure of Israel, where the priesthood played a central role in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Overall, the benefits of part of the plunder of war, including captives, to the priests highlight the intersection of divine command, social order, and religious practice in the life of ancient Israel.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 31:25-29
And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... by the priests and prophets of Jahveh, a priest of the ... it is Judah that plays the
principal part: it is ... to bring home to the people the benefits which their ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... two months, Khelbes ten months, the high priest Abbar three ... in Mysia, and that they
form part of the various measures taken after the Median war to achieve ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... regarded as a prelude to the main part of the ... was Constantius who, after the renewed
Persian war (337-350 ... reverence to the Deity the greatest benefits accrue to ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm