The allotment for the priests and Levites is a significant aspect of the Old Testament, reflecting God's provision for those who were set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The tribe of Levi, from which the priests and Levites descended, was chosen by God to perform sacred functions and maintain the spiritual life of Israel.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation for the allotment to the priests and Levites is laid out in several key passages of the Old Testament. In Numbers 18:20-24, the LORD speaks to Aaron, saying, "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." This declaration underscores the unique role of the Levites, who were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, their inheritance was the LORD Himself, and they were sustained through the offerings and tithes of the people.

Tithes and Offerings

The Levites were supported by the tithes of the Israelites. Numbers 18:21 states, "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 system of tithing ensured that the Levites could focus on their religious duties without the need to engage in agricultural or commercial activities for sustenance.

In addition to the tithes, the priests, who were a subset of the Levites descended from Aaron, received portions of certain sacrifices. Leviticus 7:31-34 outlines the portions of the peace offerings that were to be given to the priests, including the breast and the right thigh. These provisions were part of the broader sacrificial system that supported the priestly class.

Cities and Pasturelands

While the Levites did not receive a contiguous territory, they were allotted cities and surrounding pasturelands within the territories of the other tribes. Joshua 21 details the distribution of these Levitical cities, which totaled 48, including cities of refuge. This arrangement allowed the Levites to live among the people they served, providing spiritual guidance and instruction in the Law.

Role and Responsibilities

The Levites had a range of responsibilities, including the care and transport of the Tabernacle, as described in Numbers 3 and 4. They also served as musicians, gatekeepers, and assistants to the priests. The priests, on the other hand, were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the altar, and interceding on behalf of the people.

Deuteronomy 33:10 highlights the teaching role of the Levites: "They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob and Your law to Israel; they shall set incense before You and whole burnt offerings on Your altar." This educational function was crucial in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the priesthood of all believers is emphasized, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9, which states, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession." While the specific roles of the Levitical priesthood are not carried over into the New Covenant, the principles of dedication to God's service and reliance on His provision continue to be relevant for Christian ministry.

The allotment for the priests and Levites in the Old Testament serves as a testament to God's provision and the importance of dedicated service in the spiritual life of His people. Through these provisions, the Levites were able to fulfill their God-given roles, ensuring the proper worship and instruction of the nation of Israel.