Study Joshua 21 and the Levitical cities, revealing God's faithful provision and the complete fulfillment of every promise to Israel.
The division of the Promised Land continued with a special provision for the tribe of Levi. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. The Lord had declared that He Himself was their inheritance (Numbers 18:20). Instead of a distinct region, the Levites received cities scattered throughout the tribes of Israel. These cities provided homes for the priests and Levites who served at the tabernacle.
The heads of the fathers of the Levites came to Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the tribes of Israel. They presented their request for cities to dwell in and suburbs for their cattle. The Lord had commanded through Moses that cities be given to the Levites. The leaders responded in obedience to this command. The distribution of Levitical cities demonstrated God's provision for those who served Him.
The total number of cities given to the Levites was forty-eight. These included the six cities of refuge and forty-two other cities. The cities were distributed among the families of the Levites: the Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites. The priests, who were descendants of Aaron, received thirteen cities in the territories of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin. The rest of the Levites received cities throughout the other tribes. God's careful provision for the Levites showed His commitment to every part of His covenant with Israel.
The Request of the Levites
The Leaders Approach
Then came near the heads of the fathers of the Levites unto Eleazar the priest, and unto Joshua the son of Nun, and unto the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel (Joshua 21:1). The Levites approached the leadership of the nation with their request. The approach was made with respect and proper order.
The Levites did not demand but requested. They spoke at Shiloh in the land of Canaan. The tabernacle was established at Shiloh. The Levites served at the tabernacle and required proximity to it. The request was presented in the proper setting.
The Command of the Lord
The Levites declared: The Lord commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle (Joshua 21:2). The request was based on a previous command from God. Numbers 35:1-8 had given the instruction for Levitical cities.
The command required that cities be given to the Levites throughout the land. The suburbs were to be measured around the cities. The Levites needed land for their livestock. The command was clear and specific.
The Response of the Leaders
The leaders gave to the Levites these cities and their suburbs (Joshua 21:3). The response was immediate and obedient. The leaders did not hesitate to fulfill the command of the Lord. The distribution was conducted in the proper manner.
The children of Israel gave to the Levites out of their inheritance. The giving came from the territories of the other tribes. The process was orderly and fair. The leaders acted according to the will of God.
The Number and Distribution of Levitical Cities
The Total Number of Cities
All the cities of the Levites within the possession of the children of Israel were forty and eight cities with their suburbs (Joshua 21:41). The total number of Levitical cities was forty-eight. These included the six cities of refuge. The other forty-two cities were distributed among the three Levitical families.
The number forty-eight was significant. It represented the complete provision for the Levites. The cities were spread throughout the entire nation. Every tribe contributed to the support of the Levites.
The Distribution Among the Families
The Levites were divided into three families: the Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites. The Kohathites received twenty-three cities. The Gershonites received thirteen cities. The Merarites received twelve cities.
The priests, who were descendants of Aaron, were part of the Kohathites. The priests received thirteen cities in the territories of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin. The distribution was determined by lot. The casting of lots acknowledged God's sovereignty.
The Cities of the Priests
The priests received thirteen cities. These included Hebron in the mountain of Judah, Libnah, Jattir, Eshtemoa, Holon, Debir, Ain, Juttah, and Beth-shemesh with their suburbs. They also received Gibeon, Geba, Anathoth, and Almon from the tribe of Benjamin (Joshua 21:9-19).
The cities of the priests were located in the southern part of the land. The proximity to Jerusalem was significant. The priests served at the tabernacle and later the temple. The distribution reflected God's wisdom.
The Cities of the Kohathites
The Families of the Kohathites
The children of Kohath were divided into two groups: the priests and the rest of the Kohathites. The priests received thirteen cities. The rest of the Kohathites received ten cities from the tribes of Ephraim, Dan, and Manasseh (Joshua 21:20-26).
The cities of the Kohathites included Shechem in mount Ephraim, Gezer, Kibzaim, and Beth-horon. They also received Aijalon and Gath-rimmon from the tribe of Dan. The distribution reflected the central location of the Kohathites.
The Total for the Kohathites
The total number of cities for the Kohathites was twenty-three. The priests received thirteen and the rest of the Kohathites received ten. The total was the largest among the Levitical families.
The Kohathites were responsible for the most sacred items of the tabernacle. They carried the ark, the table, the candlestick, the altars, and the holy vessels. Their placement throughout the land reflected their importance in Israel's worship.
The Cities of the Gershonites
The Families of the Gershonites
The children of Gershon received thirteen cities throughout the tribes of Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Manasseh in Bashan (Joshua 21:27-33). The cities were distributed across the northern part of the land.
The cities of the Gershonites included Golan in Bashan, Beeshterah, Kishion, Daberath, Jarmuth, and En-gannim. They also received Mishal, Abdon, Helkath, and Rehob. The distribution reflected the northern location of the Gershonites.
The Total for the Gershonites
The total number of cities for the Gershonites was thirteen. The Gershonites were responsible for the curtains, coverings, hangings, and cords of the tabernacle. Their placement throughout the northern tribes provided access to the entire nation.
The Cities of the Merarites
The Families of the Merarites
The children of Merari received twelve cities throughout the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun (Joshua 21:34-40). The cities were distributed across the eastern and western sides of the Jordan.
The cities of the Merarites included Jokneam, Kartah, Dimnah, and Nahalal from the tribe of Zebulun. From the tribe of Reuben they received Bezer, Jahazah, Kedemoth, and Mephaath. From the tribe of Gad they received Ramoth in Gilead, Mahanaim, Heshbon, and Jazer.
The Total for the Merarites
The total number of cities for the Merarites was twelve. The Merarites were responsible for the boards, bars, pillars, sockets, and all the furniture of the tabernacle. Their placement throughout the land provided support for the worship of God.
The Cities of Refuge Within the Levitical Cities
The Six Cities of Refuge
The law of Moses required that six cities of refuge be established. These cities were among the forty-eight Levitical cities. The cities of refuge provided safety for those who accidentally killed another person.
The cities of refuge included Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjath-arba which is Hebron in the mountain of Judah. On the east side were Bezer in the wilderness, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan in Bashan. These cities were set apart for the protection of the innocent.
The Connection Between the Levites and Refuge
The connection between the Levitical cities and the cities of refuge was significant. The Levites were the ministers of God. The cities of refuge were under their care and oversight. The connection showed that mercy and justice were intertwined in God's system.
The Fulfillment of God's Promise
The Land Given
The Lord gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein (Joshua 21:43). The land was fully given to Israel. God fulfilled His promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The possession of the land demonstrated God's faithfulness.
The promise of the land was ancient. God had promised the land to Abraham in Genesis 15:18-21. The fulfillment took centuries. Yet God was faithful to His word. The possession of the land was proof of God's covenant faithfulness.
The Rest Given
The Lord gave them rest round about, according to all that he sware unto their fathers (Joshua 21:44). The rest from war was complete. The enemies of Israel were subdued. The people could dwell in safety and peace.
The rest was a gift from God. The Israelites did not achieve it by their own strength. God fought for them and gave them victory. The rest pointed forward to the greater rest that believers have in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10).
The Promise Kept
There failed not ought of any good thing which the Lord had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass (Joshua 21:45). This verse is a summary of the entire conquest and settlement. Every promise of God was fulfilled. Not one word failed.
The faithfulness of God is the central message of Joshua 21. God's promises are sure and certain. The apostle Paul writes: For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us (2 Corinthians 1:20). The fulfillment of the promises to Israel is a pattern for the fulfillment of all God's promises.
Lessons from Joshua 21
God's Provision for His Servants
The Levites were provided for through the generosity of the other tribes. The cities and suburbs were given out of the inheritance of the people. The system ensured that those who served God were supported by the community.
The apostle Paul writes: Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:14). The provision for the Levites is a pattern for the support of ministers today. God's people are called to support those who serve in the work of the ministry.
The Importance of God's Word
The Levites based their request on the word of the Lord. The leaders responded in obedience to that word. The distribution was conducted according to the command of God. The entire process was governed by divine revelation.
The psalmist writes: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105). The word of God provides direction and guidance. The obedience of Israel to God's word resulted in blessing and fulfillment.
The Faithfulness of God
The summary of Joshua 21 emphasizes God's faithfulness. God kept every promise He made. The land was given, the rest was provided, and the promises were fulfilled. The lesson is clear: God can be trusted.
The apostle Paul writes: God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Corinthians 1:9). The faithfulness of God is the foundation of the believer's faith. God's promises are sure and certain.
The Unity of the Nation
The distribution of the Levitical cities promoted unity among the tribes. Every tribe contributed to the support of the Levites. The Levites were scattered throughout the nation. The arrangement bound the tribes together in service to God.
The unity of Israel under the covenant was essential for the nation. The Levites served as teachers of the law. Their presence throughout the land spread the knowledge of God. The distribution of the cities served the spiritual needs of the entire nation.
Connections to Scripture
The Promise to Abraham
The fulfillment of the promise to Abraham is central to Joshua 21. Genesis 12:1-3 records the original promise. Genesis 15:18-21 specifies the boundaries of the land. The possession of the land was the fulfillment of this promise.
The apostle Paul writes: Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made (Galatians 3:16). The promises to Abraham find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ. The land was a type of the spiritual inheritance that believers have in Christ.
The Covenant with Israel
The covenant with Israel is recorded in Exodus and Deuteronomy. The covenant included blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. The possession of the land was conditional upon obedience. The fulfillment of the promise demonstrated God's grace.
The book of Joshua records the fulfillment of the covenant promises. The people had been obedient to the commands of God. The result was blessing and rest. The lesson for believers is the importance of obedience to God.
The Rest in Christ
The rest that Israel experienced in Canaan points to the rest that believers have in Christ. The author of Hebrews writes: For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God (Hebrews 4:8-9).
The physical rest in Canaan was temporary. The spiritual rest in Christ is eternal. Believers enter into rest through faith in Christ. The lesson of Joshua 21 points forward to the greater rest that is yet to come.
The Priesthood of Believers
The tribe of Levi did not receive a land inheritance because the Lord was their inheritance. This principle foreshadows the priesthood of all believers. The apostle Peter writes: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people (1 Peter 2:9).
Believers have a spiritual inheritance that is greater than any earthly possession. The Lord is their portion. The example of the Levites encourages believers to find their sufficiency in God and to serve Him with their whole hearts.
Conclusion
The distribution of the Levitical cities completed the work of dividing the Promised Land. The leaders gave the cities according to the command of God. The forty-eight cities were distributed among the families of the Levites. The cities provided homes for those who served at the tabernacle. The arrangement ensured that the worship of God was maintained throughout the land.
The cities of the Levites demonstrate God's provision for those who serve Him. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance but were supported through the generosity of the other tribes. The cities provided homes and pastures for their cattle. The provision for the Levites shows that God cares for those who are dedicated to His service. The lessons from Joshua 21 apply to believers today. Those who serve God can trust Him to supply their needs.
The summary of Joshua 21 is one of the most powerful statements in scripture. There failed not ought of any good thing which the Lord had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass. The faithfulness of God is the foundation of all hope. If God kept every promise to Israel, He will keep every promise to believers. The account of Joshua 21 calls believers to trust in God's faithfulness, to serve Him with dedication, and to rest in His promises. The fulfillment of God's word to Israel is a testimony to His unchanging character and His commitment to His people.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many cities did the Levites receive and how were they distributed?
The Levites received forty-eight cities with their suburbs. The priests, descendants of Aaron, received thirteen cities in the territories of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin. The rest of the Kohathites received ten cities. The Gershonites received thirteen cities. The Merarites received twelve cities. The distribution was determined by lot.
2. Why did the Levites not receive a territorial inheritance?
The Lord had declared that He Himself was the inheritance of the Levites (Numbers 18:20). The Levites were set apart for service at the tabernacle. They did not own land like the other tribes. Instead, they received cities and suburbs throughout the land of Israel. The arrangement allowed them to serve the spiritual needs of the entire nation.
3. What cities of refuge were included among the Levitical cities?
Six cities of refuge were included among the forty-eight Levitical cities. These were Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjath-arba which is Hebron in the mountain of Judah on the west side. On the east side were Bezer in the wilderness, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan in Bashan. These cities provided safety for those who accidentally killed another person.
4. What is the significance of Joshua 21:45?
Joshua 21:45 declares that not one good thing failed of all that the Lord had spoken. Every promise of God to Israel was fulfilled. The verse emphasizes the faithfulness of God in keeping His covenant. The possession of the land, the rest from war, and the provision for the Levites all demonstrate God's faithfulness to His word.
5. How does the rest in Canaan point to the rest in Christ?
The physical rest that Israel experienced in Canaan points to the spiritual rest that believers have in Christ. The author of Hebrews explains that there remains a rest for the people of God. Believers enter into rest through faith in Christ. The rest in Canaan was temporary and incomplete. The rest in Christ is eternal and complete.
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