The "Portion of the Priests" refers to the specific allocations and provisions designated for the Levitical priests in the Old Testament. These allocations were established by God to ensure that the priests, who were set apart for sacred duties and service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, were adequately provided for, given that they did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of the priests' portion is rooted in the Mosaic Law, where God delineated the means by which the priests would be sustained. In Numbers 18:20-21, the LORD declares to Aaron, "You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them; I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites. Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the work of the Tent of Meeting" . This passage underscores the unique relationship between God and the priestly tribe, emphasizing their reliance on divine provision rather than land ownership.

Tithes and Offerings

The primary means of support for the priests came through the tithes and offerings of the people. The Israelites were commanded to bring a tenth of their produce, livestock, and other resources to the Levites, who in turn would give a tenth of that to the priests (Numbers 18:26-28). This system ensured that the priests could focus on their spiritual duties without the distraction of agricultural or commercial endeavors.

In addition to tithes, the priests received portions of various offerings. Leviticus 7:31-34 specifies that the breast and right thigh of the peace offerings were to be given to the priests. Similarly, the grain offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings also included portions designated for the priests (Leviticus 2:3, 6:26, 7:6).

Firstfruits and Other Provisions

The firstfruits of the harvest were another significant provision for the priests. As stated in Deuteronomy 18:3-5, "This shall be the priests’ share from the people, from those who offer sacrifices, whether bull or sheep: They are to give the priest the shoulder, the jowls, and the stomach. You are to give him the firstfruits of your grain, new wine, and oil, and the first wool sheared from your flock. For the LORD your God has chosen him and his descendants out of all your tribes to stand and minister in His name for all time" . These offerings symbolized the dedication of the best and first to God, acknowledging His provision and sovereignty.

Cities and Pasturelands

While the priests did not receive a tribal inheritance, they were allotted cities and surrounding pasturelands within the territories of the other tribes. Joshua 21 details the distribution of these Levitical cities, providing the priests with places to live and land to support their livestock. This arrangement facilitated their service throughout Israel, allowing them to minister to the people while maintaining a presence in various regions.

Spiritual Significance

The Portion of the Priests highlights the principle of divine provision and the importance of supporting those dedicated to spiritual leadership. It reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship, where God's people are called to honor Him with their resources and ensure the well-being of those who serve in His name. The priests' reliance on God's provision through the community serves as a model of faith and dependence on the Lord's faithfulness.

In summary, the Portion of the Priests was a divinely ordained system that provided for the material needs of the Levitical priesthood, enabling them to fulfill their sacred duties without distraction. This system underscores the value placed on spiritual service and the community's role in sustaining those who minister before the Lord.