Josué 21
Bob Utley · Citado em PreceptAustin
Josué 21
Utley - “not one of the good promises..." - This is our great hope: when God speaks, we can depend upon His word (cf. 23:14; 1 Kgs. 8:56; and note Isa. 55:11). Yet covenant disobedience can negate the blessings of the promises of God! There is an inseparable bond between a faithful God and a faithful people. Covenant has privileges and responsibilities. (Commentary) Cyril
Josué 21
Utley - the heads of households of the Levites” There are going to be forty-eight Levitical cities (cf. vv. 41 and Num. 35:1–8). There are three major households (sons) of the tribe of Levi (cf. Gen. 46:11; Exod. 6:16). The first is the Kohathites, found in vv. 10–19 and 20–26. The second major group is the Gershonites, found in vv. 27–33, the third group is the Merarites, found in vv. 34–40. When discussing “Levites” in the historical literature of early Israel, there is no distinction made between “Levites” and “priests”; both are allowed to serve YHWH and eat from His offerings (cf. Deuteronomy 18). As the years passed, there developed a specialized recognition of the family of Aaron as denoting priests (which was for life and passed on through families). (Commentary) Ryrie - Forty-eight cities and their suburbs were given to the Levites as Moses had commanded (Joshua 21:4-7; Num. 35:1-5). Since the Levites were to teach Israel the Law (Dt. 33:10), it was necessary that these cities be scattered throughout the land (ED: FULFILLING DEATHBED PROPHECY - Ge 49:7b). (Ryrie Study Bible) While Ryrie's point about the Levites being scattered throughout the land that they might instruct the Israelites on the God's Word, unfortunately this ideal objective was not always realized. Donald Campbell in fact points out that "The Levites did not live up to their potential or fulfill their mission. Declared William Blaikie, "If the Levites had all been consecrated men, idolatry and its great brood of corruptions would never have spread over the land of Israel" (The Book of Joshua)." Perhaps too many of the Levites succumbed, as many of us do, to the softening influences of the "good life." When Eddie Arcaro retired as one of the nation's most successful racing jockeys back in 1962, a reporter asked him if he still got up early to walk his mounts around the track while the dew was still on the ground. Arcaro confessed frankly, "It becomes difficult to get up early once a guy starts wearing silk pajamas." (No Time for Neutrality: A Study of Joshua) Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary - Verses 1-8. The Levites waited till the other tribes were provided for, before they preferred their claim to Joshua. They build their claim upon a very good foundation; not their own merits or services, but the Divine precept. The maintenance of ministers is not a thing left merely to the will of the people, that they may let them starve if they please; they which preach the gospel should live by the gospel, and should live comfortably. GEORGE BUSH Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 21 The heads of the fathers of the Levites. The most distinguished persons among the fathers, chiefs, or elders of the three families of Kohath, Gershom, and Merari, which constituted the body of the tribe of Levi. They here make their petition precisely at the time when it could be most conveniently granted, viz. just after the allotments had been made to the other tribes. Whether this was prior or subsequent to the designation of the cities of refuge, mentioned in the foregoing chapter, it is not possible to determine. Utley - The timing and method of the composition of Joshua is unclear. Many of the accounts go back to Joshua’s time. However, some of the events could not have occurred until later. This is especially true of some of the forty-eight Levitical cities. Merrill F. Unger, Archaeology and the Old Testament, p. 210, lists several cities not under Israelite control until the United Monarchy. (Commentary) 1. Gezer 2. Ibleam 3. Taanach, v. 25 4. Rehob in Asher, v. 31 5. Jokneam, v. 34 6. Nahalal, v. 35 7. Elteke, v. 23 8. Gibbethon, v. 23 9. Anathoth 10. Alemoth (pp. 201–211) QUESTION - What is the difference between priests and Levites? ANSWER - The Levites were the tribe of Israelites descended from Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (ED: see chart above). The priests of Israel were a group of qualified men from within the tribe of the Levites who had responsibility over aspects of tabernacle or temple worship. All priests were to be Levites, according to the Law, but not all Levites were priests. Priests existed prior to the Levites in a general sense. For example, we first see the role of a priest in Genesis 14:18 during Abraham’s time, long before Levi was born. Melchizedek was the king of the town of Salem, which later became Jerusalem. Melchizedek was also said to be “a priest forever” (Psalm 110:4; cf. Hebrews 6:20; 7:17). Pagan nations also had priests for their religious activities. Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, was the priest of Midian (Exodus 3:1;18:1). When the Jews received the Law of Moses at Sinai, the Lord gave commands regarding a formal priesthood for Israel. The priests would be males from the tribe of Levi and must meet certain physical and age qualifications in order to serve. In addition, they had to remain ceremonially clean to perform their duties before a holy God. The priests served as mediators between the Israelites and God. They were the ones who performed animal sacrifices on behalf of the people. It was only the priests who were permitted to enter the Holy Place in the tabernacle and, later, the temple. A more detailed description of the Levitical priesthood can be found in our article “What was the Levitical priesthood?” Among these Levitical priests was the high priest. The first high priest was Aaron, the brother of Moses. His sons and their descendants were to serve as the future high priests of the nation of Israel (Exodus 29). Only the high priest was permitted to enter the Most Holy Place in the tabernacle and temple, and that only once per year on the Day of Atonement. A more detailed description of the work of the high priest can be found in our article “What was the biblical role of the high priest?” Ezra, one of the leaders of the Jews who returned from Babylon, was a Levitical priest (Nehemiah 12:1). Zechariah and Elizabeth, John the Baptist’s parents, were both Levites descended from Aaron (see Luke 1:5). Zechariah was a priest, but his son, John, also a Levite, was a prophet, not a priest. By the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry, the Jewish priesthood held much spiritual and political power. In fact, the Jewish chief priests were involved in sentencing Jesus to death. Following the resurrection of Jesus, believers now live under a new covenant in which all Christians are priests: “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). We no longer need an earthly mediator between us and God because Jesus has made the final sacrifice on our behalf and acts as our Mediator (Hebrews 10:19–23; 1 Timothy 2:5). The Jewish role of high priest is now fulfilled by Jesus, who serves as our high priest. Jesus’ sacrifice ended our need for continued sacrifices. The Holy Spirit guides and counsels us. The Levitical priesthood was part of the old covenant system of sacrifices. It has been fulfilled in Jesus, and we are now under the new covenant. There is no longer a biblical mandate for priests. Every follower of Christ has access to God, regardless of gender, race, or tribe (Hebrews 7:11–28; Ephesians 3:11–12; Colossians 3:11).GotQuestions.org Related Resources: What can we learn from the tribe of Levi / the Levites? | GotQuestions.org What was the Levitical priesthood? | GotQuestions.org Joshua 21:2 They spoke to them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, "The LORD commanded through Moses to give us cities to live in, with their pasture lands for our cattle." Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Numbers 35:1-8+ Now the LORD spoke to Moses in the plains of Moab by the Jordan opposite Jericho, saying, 2 “Command the sons of Israel that they give to the Levites from the inheritance of their possession cities to live in; and you shall give to the Levites pasture lands around the cities. 3 “The cities shall be theirs to live in; and their pasture lands shall be for their cattle and for their herds and for all their beasts. 4 “The pasture lands of the cities which you shall give to the Levites shall extend from the wall of the city outward a thousand cubits around. 5 You shall also measure outside the city on the east side two thousand cubits, and on the south side two thousand cubits, and on the west side two thousand cubits, and on the north side two thousand cubits, with the city in the center. This shall become theirs as pasture lands for the cities. 6 “The cities which you shall give to the Levites shall be the six cities of refuge (ED: Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan), which you shall give for the manslayer to flee to; and in addition to them you shall give forty-two cities. 7 “All the cities which you shall give to the Levites shall be forty-eight cities, together with their pasture lands. 8 “As for the cities which you shall give from the possession of the sons of Israel, you shall take more from the larger and you shall take less from the smaller; each shall give some of his cities to the Levites in proportion to his possession which he inherits.” Deuteronomy 33:10+ (GOD'S PURPOSE FOR SCATTERING LEVITES THROUGHOUT THE LAND) “They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob, And Your law to Israel. They shall put incense before You, And whole burnt offerings on Your altar. 2 Chronicles 17:7-9 He (GODLY KING JEHOSHAPHAT ca. 873–ca. 849 BC) took great pride in the ways of the LORD and again removed the high places and the Asherim from Judah. 7 Then in the third year of his reign he sent his officials, Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel and Micaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah; 8 and with them the Levites, Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah and Tobadonijah, the Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests. 2 Chronicles 35:3 He (GODLY KING JOSIAH 640 to 609 B.C) also said to the Levites who taught all Israel and who were holy to the LORD, “Put the holy ark in the house which Solomon the son of David king of Israel built; it will be a burden on your shoulders no longer. Now serve the LORD your God and His people Israel. Nehemiah 8:7-9 Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, explained the law to the people while the people remained in their place. 8 They read from the book, from the law of God, translating to give the sense so that they understood the reading. 9 Then Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping when they heard the words of the law. LEVITES "NAME AND CLAIM" GOD'S PROMISE They spoke to them at Shiloh (Josh 18:1+) in the land of Canaan, saying, "The LORD commanded through Moses to give us cities to live in, with their pasture lands for our cattle - In making their formal request, the Levites illustrate legitimate "name it, claim it" theology, in contrast to what is often taught today (see Related Resources below). While God Himself was to be their inheritance (Joshua 13:14+, Nu 18:20-24+, Dt 10:9+), God had instructed Israel to give them cities in which to live and they were to have pasture lands to graze their cattle. See notes on Nu 35:1-8. The Levites were given 48 cities (6 being cities of refuge) with their pasture lands. This distribution provided a spiritual influence over all the people, since it is estimated that no one lived more than 10 miles from a city in which Levites lived. Cyril Barber on the meaning of cities to live in - This does not mean that the Israelites to whom these cities had been assigned were dispossessed of their inheritance, but only that some of Israel’s religious leaders came and lived among them. This system insured that there was a continuous spiritual influence over all the people. In the plan and purpose of God the tribe of Levi was not only to serve in the central sanctuary but also to be teachers of the Law (Dt 33:8–11; see also 2 Chr 17:7–9; 35:3; Neh 8:7–9) Unhappily, the priesthood deteriorated until a time came when God, speaking through His prophet, Malachi, had to rebuke their faithlessness (see Malachi 2:4–7+)! (Joshua: A Devotional Exposition:) Related Resource: What is the meaning of the term “Shiloh”? Is it a Messianic prophecy? | GotQuestions.org Is “name it claim it” teaching biblical? | GotQuestions.org How was God Himself the inheritance of the Levites? | GotQuestions.org Joshua 21:3 So the sons of Israel gave the Levites from their inheritance these cities with their pasture lands, according to the command of the LORD. the Levites: Ge 49:7 De 33:8-10 1Ch 6:54-81 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Genesis 49:7 (YAHWEH TURNED THE CURSE INTO A BLESSING FOR THE NATION) “Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce; And their wrath, for it is cruel. I will disperse them in Jacob, And scatter them in Israel (THE LEVITES WOULD BE EVENLY DISPERSED). SONS OF ISRAEL FREELY GIVE TO LEVITES So the sons of Israel gave the Levites from their inheritance these cities with their pasture lands, according to the command of the LORD - Note that six of the Levites’ cities were designated as cities of refuge . There is no record of any of the tribes complaining, grumbling or murmuring that they had to give to the Levites, so they appear to do so freely and in complete obedience with the LORD's instructions. Utley on pasture lands - We learn from Nu 35:4 that around the walls of the Levitical cities each Levitical family was given land extending a thousand cubits (for “cubit” see Cubit). This was apparently to be used for growing crops or to keep a few animals in order to supplement their food supply which was provided by one of the three tithes of the people. (Commentary) Hess - “For Christians, the allotment of Levitical towns from each tribe illustrates the principle of returning to God a portion of what has been given to them. These gifts are then used to support others in need and to encourage the proclamation of the faith (cf. Acts 2:44–47; Rom. 15:26–27; Phil. 4:10–18).” (Joshua: An Introduction and Commentary) Gary D. Baldwin has an excellent discussion to help understand the Levitical Cities - Residence and pasture lands provided the priestly tribe of Levi in lieu of a tribal inheritance. Because of their priestly duties, the tribe of Levi did not receive any part of the land of Canaan as an inheritance (Numbers 18:20-24; Numbers 26:62; Deuteronomy 10:9; Deuteronomy 18:1-2; Joshua 18:7 ). To compensate them for this, they received the tithes of Israelites for their support (Nu 18:21), and 48 cities were allotted to them from the inheritance of the other tribes. On the average, four cities from each tribe were Levitical cities. The practice of setting cities aside in this manner was a common Ancient Near Eastern practice. The Levites were not the sole possessors or occupiers of these cities. They were simply allowed to live in them and have fields to pasture their herds. These cities did not cease to belong to the tribes within which they were located. Although six of the 48 were asylums for those guilty of manslaughter (Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron in Canaan, Bezer, Ramoth-Gilead, and Golan), Levitical cities and cities of refuge are not synonymous. The privilege of asylum was not extended to all 48 Levitical cities. The aim of having cities of refuge was to control blood revenge by making it possible for public justice to intervene between the slayer and the victim's avenger of blood. The cities of refuge were probably priestly cities containing important shrines. Cities of refuge also served as punitive detention centers. The slayer was not permitted to leave until the death of the high priest. This was possibly interpreted as a vicarious expiation of life by life. Levitical cities were a series of walled cities, apart from the lands surrounding them. Unwalled suburbs and fields outside the cities remained tribal property. The Levites could not sell any open plots of land. The legal status of Levitical houses within these cities differed from ordinary property. To prevent the dispossession of Levites , it was ordained that they might at any time redeem houses in their own cities which they had been forced by need to sell. Moreover, such a house, if not redeemed, reverted to its original Levitical owner during the year of Jubilee. See Jubilee, Year of). Pastureland belonging to Levites could not be sold (Leviticus 25:32-34 ). Theological, political, and economic reasons led to establishing the cities. The cities formed bases of operation so that the Levites could better infiltrate each of the tribes to instruct them in God's covenant. Such bases would be most needed precisely where one finds them: in those areas least accessible to the central sanctuary. Obviously, there was also a political dimension. Certainly, the Levitical desire to secure Israel's loyalty to the Lord of the covenant would also imply a commitment to secure loyalty to the Lord's anointed, the king. There was a blending of covenant teaching and political involvement. The economic factor may have been the most significant. The list of cities describes the dispersion of the Levites who were not employed at the large sanctuaries, had no steady income, and who belonged, therefore, in the category of widows and orphans. The cities were established for men needing economic relief. GEORGE BUSH Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 21 The children of Israel gave unto the Levites. They cheerfully obeyed the divine command. They gave them cities out of their several inheritances, without any fear of being impoverished by the appropriation. Nor will men ever find themselves sufferers in their temporal interests, in consequence of a liberal allowance to the ministers of the sanctuary. These cities were assigned by lot, that it might fully appear that God designed the Levites their habitations, as he designed the others their inheritances The result of this arrangement would naturally be, that the Levites would be dispersed in every part of the land, to instruct the people in the knowledge of the divine law, to edify them by their example, to restrain them from idolatry, and prompt them to a constant adherence to the worship of Jehovah, the only true God. Thus the prophetic sentence of the patriarch, Gen. 49:7, that they should be ‘divided in Jacob, and scattered in Israel,’ though originally carrying with it a punitive import, was through the special mercy of heaven converted to a blessing to themselves and to the nation. These cities. Referring to those which are enumerated in the sequel of this chapter. Today in the Word - A proverb about courage attributed to Aesop reads, “It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.” The Levites were not afforded that luxury. One might think that the priests of Israel, the Levites, would have been set apart and isolated from the other tribes of Israel, but God didn't plan it that way. They weren't a safe distance away from the people they were supposed to lead spiritually, and as God's handpicked representatives, they were to be close to the Almighty as well. Several times throughout Joshua we've been reminded that the Levites' inheritance was the Lord Himself; serving Him was their reward. But they still needed a place to live. God provided for them in a unique way, bringing provision from every other tribe in Israel. Consulting a map will show that the Levites were spread so evenly across the land that no one was very far from a city of priests. This wasn't a last-minute decision. God commanded Moses that the land be shared with the priests in this way. The book of Numbers describes the parameters for the Levite cities, and they include generously sized pastures around each one. God didn't overlook His priests; He was determined to show His provision to them in a way that creatively taught the truth of God with unforgettable permanence and profound symbolism. God's pattern for sustaining the priests had always been for the people to support them according to each one's possessions and income. The distribution of Levite cities was no different. God commanded the larger territories to yield more cities and the smaller to give up less. This fair and wise method provided ample space for the Levites and even distribution of priests throughout the land. It also rooted all of the tribes in the truth that the land was given to them by God and should be shared generously with His servants. Six of the Levite cities also became the cities of refuge we read about yesterday. It's interesting to note that God chose priests to be a symbol of protection in times of trouble. “City of refuge” may sound like a military term, but it's men of faith, not weapon-bearing warriors, who provide asylum from vengeance. TODAY ALONG THE WAY - As salt and light in the world, we can't be satisfied living a safe distance from the world. God has placed you in a position to be a spiritual leader to those around you. Stay close to Him through your personal time with God, and make the most of your place in the world so that the spiritually needy can come to you for help. The Lord will be with you; don't fear those who don't believe. God is greater than the world, and He can give you victory over your own flaws and fears. Joshua 21:4 Then the lot came out for the families of the Kohathites. And the sons of Aaron the priest, who were of the Levites, received thirteen cities by lot from the tribe of Judah and from the tribe of the Simeonites and from the tribe of Benjamin. the sons of Aaron the priest Jos 21:8-19 24:33 1Ch 6:54-60 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Map to help visualize cities of refuge - UNDERLINED Zondervan Atlas of the Bible: C. Rasmussen (recommended resource - do not reproduce) AARONIC KOHATHITES RECEIVE 13 CITIES FROM JUDAH, SIMEON & BENJAMIN Then the lot (goral) came out for the families of the Kohathites - The Kohathites had special responsibilities related to the Tabernacle. Some were responsible for moving the vessels of the Tabernacle (Nu 4:1-20, including the Ark of the Covenant), some were designated by David to bring the ark to Jerusalem (Nu 15:4-5), and some (1Chr 6:33) were assigned to a ministry of praise. This would be significant in the future when the Temple was built in Jerusalem as Aaronic Kohathites were in this area by It is worth noting that in Numbers 16:1-50+ Korah, a Kohathite (the grandson of Kohath), along with part of the tribe of Reuben (Dathan, Abiram and On), rebelled against Moses and Aaron and were destroyed (while the sons of Korah, perhaps too young to understand their father’s uprising or maybe too cognizant of God’s authority to join in the revolt, were spared - Nu 26:9-11). . In Numbers we see the "numbers" of Kohathites -- "In the numbering of every male (in the Kohathite lineage - all 4 sons of Kohath) from a month old and upward, there were 8,600, performing the duties of the sanctuary." (Nu 3:28+) Background Note on Kohathites and relation to the sons of Aaron - In Exodus 28:1-43+ the Lord told Moses to make holy garments for Aaron (a descendant of Kohath) and his sons and anoint them as priests to Him. Only those Kohathites of the line of Aaron would be priests. So while all the priests were Levites, specifically Levites from the line of Aaron and Kohath, not all Levites from the line of Kohath were priests. It follows that the rest of the sons of Kohath (same phrase Josh 21:5) and all the sons of Gershon and Merari (the other two sons of Levi) were Levites who served the priests (Nu 3:6; 8: 19+). If you find this somewhat confusing (as I do), take a moment to read it again and look at the Family Tree from Abraham (suggestion open this in a new window - on your mouse hold pointer over this link and right click - select "Open in a New Window"). In Numbers 3:27+ we see the 4 sons of Kohath which are also shown on the Family Tree - "Of Kohath was the family of the Amramites and the family of the Izharites and the family of the Hebronites and the family of the Uzzielites; these were the families of the Kohathites." Only the descendants of Kohath who came through Amram (father of Aaron) and Aaron were qualified to be priests. Utley on “the lot came out for the families of the Kohathites” The “lot” is not understood exactly. Some believe that it refers to the Urim and Thummim in the breastplate of the High Priest, while others believe it refers to black or white stones which were cast like dice or drawn from a pouch. (Commentary) And the sons of Aaron the priest, who were of the Levites, received thirteen cities by lot from the tribe of Judah and from the tribe of the Simeonites and from the tribe of Benjamin - The phrase the sons of Aaron refers to the family from the tribe of Levi from which the High Priests and other Priests would come (cf Ex 28:1 - see chart above). So within the group of Kohathites, this group of Kohathites is separated from non-Aaronic Kohathites. In Joshua 21:5 the lot is given to Kohathites who were not descended from Aaron (see family tree - suggestion open this in a new window - on your mouse hold pointer over this link and right click - select "Open in a New Window"), which is why they are referred to as the rest of the sons of Kohath. The Kohathites who descended from Aaron received thirteen towns in Judah, Simeon and Benjamin (Joshua 21:4). The specific Aaronic Kohathite cities are - Hebron, Libnah, Jattir, Eshtemoa, Holon, Debir, Ain, Juttah, Beth-shemesh, Gibeon, Geba, Anathoth, Almon. Identify these cities by the green triangles on the map. Notice that 4 of these cities are very close to Jerusalem (Gibeon, Geba, Almon, Anathoth). This is significant because the Aaronic Kohathites were the priests who ministered in the future Temple in Jerusalem because they handled the vessels of the Tabernacle. Paul Enns explains the significance of the distribution to the Aaronic Kohathites commenting that the "Kohathites who descended through Aaron received thirteen towns in Judah, Simeon. and Benjamin. (Joah 21:4). The providence of God is clearly seen since the Aaronic Kohathites would be ministering in the Temple that would ultimately be established in Jerusalem. The Kohathites that were not descendents of Aaron received ten towns in Ephraim, Dan, and the western half of the tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 21:5)" (Joshua, Bible Study Commentary:) Notice also on the map the fact that there are no Levitical cities actually within the territory allocated to Simeon and yet here they are recorded in the text as contributing land, a fact I cannot completely understand. TSK Note - Judah and Benjamin furnished more habitation to the Levites, in proportion, than any of the other tribes, because they possessed a more extensive inheritance, agreeably to what Moses had commanded (Nu 35:8.) It is worthy of remark, that the principal part of this tribe, whose business was to minister at the sanctuary, which sanctuary was afterwards established at Jerusalem, had their appointment nearest to that city; so that they were always within reach of the sacred work which God had appointed them. Related Resources: Who was Korah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was the significance of the rebellion of Korah? | GotQuestions.org Who were the sons of Korah in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Lot (01486)(goral) refers to any kind of small object (e.g., stick, pebble, shard) used for making decisions by a "random" outcome (see Pr 16:33 on what controls "random") or for determining the will of God. Lot is often translated in the Septuagint with kleros which can also mean inheritance. Baker - A masculine noun indicating a portion or lot. A lot was cast, probably a stone or stones, to decide questions or appoint persons for various reasons; for apportioning land (Num. 26:55; 33:54; Josh. 18:6, 11); for assignments of various kinds, such as goats on the Day of Atonement (Lev. 16:8–10); priests, singers, musicians, etc. to their duties (1 Chr. 24:5, 31; 25:8; 26:13); for living in Jerusalem (Neh. 11:1), etc. (Judg. 20:9; Neh. 10:34[35]); for allotting slaves (Joel 3:3[4:3]). Lots were cast to distribute garments (Ps. 22:18[19]). The word also is used to refer to things allotted such as land (Josh. 15:1; 17:1; 21:40[38]) or even the boundary itself of an allotment (Josh. 18:11). It refers figuratively to one’s destiny or fortune (Prov. 1:14) but notes an allotted share or portion in the age to come (Dan. 12:13). Finally, it can designate a portion or allotment for someone in the sense of recompense or retribution (Isa. 17:14; Jer. 13:25). (Old Testament Word Study) Vine on Lot - Gôrâl (גֹּרָל, Strong's #1486), “lot.” This word is attested 77 times and in all periods of the language (if a traditional view of the formation of the canon is accepted). Gôrâl represents the “lot” which was cast to discover the will of God in a given situation: “And Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats; one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scapegoat” (Lev. 16:8—the first occurrence). Exactly what casting the “lot” involved is not known. Since the land of Palestine was allocated among the tribes by the casting of the “lot,” these allotments came to be known as their lots: “This then was the lot of the tribe of the children of Judah by their families; even to the border of Edom …” (Josh. 15:1). In an extended use the word gôrâl represents the idea “fate” or “destiny”: “And behold at eveningtide trouble; and before the morning he is not. This is the portion of them that spoil us, and the lot of them that rob us” (Isa. 17:14). Since God is viewed as controlling all things absolutely, the result of the casting of the “lot” is divinely controlled: “The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD.” (Pr 16:33). Thus, providence (divine control of history) is frequently (ED: I WOULD SAY ALWAYS) figured as one’s “lot.” Goral - 77x in 67v all translated "lot" - Lev. 16:8; Lev. 16:9; Lev. 16:10; Num. 26:55; Num. 26:56; Num. 33:54; Num. 34:13; Num. 36:2; Num. 36:3; Jos. 14:2; Jos. 15:1; Jos. 16:1; Jos. 17:1; Jos. 17:14; Jos. 17:17; Jos. 18:6; Jos. 18:8; Jos. 18:10; Jos. 18:11; Jos. 19:1; Jos. 19:10; Jos. 19:17; Jos. 19:24; Jos. 19:32; Jos. 19:40; Jos. 19:51; Jos. 21:4; Jos. 21:5; Jos. 21:6; Jos. 21:8; Jos. 21:10; Jos. 21:20; Jos. 21:40; Jdg. 1:3; Jdg. 20:9; 1 Chr. 6:54; 1 Chr. 6:61; 1 Chr. 6:63; 1 Chr. 6:65; 1 Chr. 24:5; 1 Chr. 24:7; 1 Chr. 24:31; 1 Chr. 25:8; 1 Chr. 25:9; 1 Chr. 26:13; 1 Chr. 26:14; Neh. 10:34; Neh. 11:1; Est. 3:7; Est. 9:24; Ps. 16:5; Ps. 22:18; Ps. 125:3; Prov. 1:14; Prov. 16:33; Prov. 18:18; Isa. 17:14; Isa. 34:17; Isa. 57:6; Jer. 13:25; Ezek. 24:6; Dan. 12:13; Joel 3:3; Obad. 1:11; Jon. 1:7; Mic. 2:5; Nah. 3:10 Albert Bean on Lots - Objects of unknown shape and material used to determine the divine will. Often in the Ancient Near East people, especially priests, made difficult and significant decisions by casting lots on the ground or drawing them from a receptacle. Several times Scripture mentions the practice. We do not know exactly what the lots looked like. Nor do we know how they were interpreted. We do know that people of the Old and New Testaments believed God (or gods in the case of non-Israelites or non-Christians) influenced the fall or outcome of the lots (Proverbs 16:33 ). Thus, casting lots was a way of determining God's will. One of the best examples of this use of lots is in Acts. Matthias was chosen to be Judas' successor by lot (Acts 1:26 ). The apostles' prayer immediately before shows the belief that God would express His will through this method. In the Old Testament Saul was chosen as Israel's first king through the use of lots (1 Samuel 10:20-24 ). In a similar fashion God communicated knowledge unknown to human beings through lots. Saul called for the casting of lots to determine who sinned during his day-long battle with the Philistines. Specifically, he called for the use of the Urim and Thummim (1 Samuel 14:41-42; See Joshua 7:10-15 ). Lots helped God's people make a fair decision in complicated situations. God commanded that the Promised Land be divided by lot (Numbers 26:52-56 ). Later, lots established the Temple priests' order of service (1 Chronicles 24:5-19 ). This practice continued into Jesus' day. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, was burning incense in the holy place when the angel spoke to him. Zechariah was there because the lot fell to him (Luke 1:9 ). The awful picture of soldiers casting lots for Jesus' garments was this kind of “fair play” use of lots (Matthew 27:35 ). Proverbs teaches that the use of lots is one way to put an end to a dispute when decisions are difficult (Proverbs 18:18 ). Lots are memorialized in the Jewish Feast of Purim. Purim, the Akkadian word for lots, celebrates the frustration of Haman's plan to destroy the Jews in Persia. Haman had used lots to find the best day for the destruction (Esther 3:7 ). Finally, the word lot came to refer to one's portion or circumstance of life. The righteous could confess that God was their lot ( Psalm 16:5 ). The lot of those who violated the people of God was terror and annihilation (Isaiah 17:14 ). See Oracles; Urim and Thummim (Holman Bible Dictionary ) Related Resources: Hastings' Dictionary of the New Testament Lots The Jewish Encyclopedia Lots J. Lindlom, “Lot-casting in the OT.” VT:12:164–66 Old Testament Lot-Casting: Divination Or Providence Mark A. Snoeberger DBSJ 16 (2011): 3–18 GEORGE BUSH Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 21 And the lot came out. It would seem that a certain number of cities were previously designated and set apart en masse, as the habitations of the Levites, and that the particular appropriation of them to the several families and their branches was then determined by lot. The children of Aaron the priest. All the Kohathites were children of Aaron, in being lineally descended from him, but they were not all priests; whereas the phrase ‘children of Aaron’ here is but another name for the priests, his successors in office; and these had their allotment of cities in the tribes of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin; the rest, who were merely Levites and not priests, had their lot, as appears from v. 5, in the tribes of Ephraim, Dan, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The providence of God in this assignment is very remarkable, as in consequence of it the priestly part of Aaron’s posterity, who were the stated ministers of the sanctuary, the seat of which was afterwards to be fixed at Jerusalem, had their location nearest to that city, so that they were always conveniently situated with reference to the work to which they were appointed. Thirteen cities. This was a large proportion for the present number of priests, which was small, but in view of the prospective increase of this body, and their future wants, it was no more than was requisite. As to the nature of the tenure by which the Levites held these appropriated cities, the probability is that they had no other property in them than merely the right to certain places of habitation, which they might let or sell, but always with the right of perpetual redemption; and with the understanding that they were to return to them in the year of jubilee. But on this head see Notes on Lev. 25:32, 33. Kohathites - Holman Bible Dictionary The descendants of Kohath, the son of Levi (Exodus 6:16; see Kohath). Since Kohath was the grandfather of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam (Exodus 6:20; Numbers 26:59; see Amram), the Kohathites were considered the most important of the three major Levitical families (that is, Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites). The Kohathites were further divided into four branches according to the four sons of Kohath: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel (Exodus 6:18; Numbers 3:19; 1Chronicles 6:1-3,1Chronicles 6:16,1Chronicles 6:18,1Chronicles 6:33,1 Chronicles 6:38; 1Chronicles 23:6,1Chronicles 23:12-13,1 Chronicles 23:18-20; 1 Chronicles 26:23 ). The Kohathites were active throughout Israel's history. The Kohathites, along with the Gershonites and Merarites, were placed around the tabernacle and were charged with caring for and moving it. The Kohathites were to camp on the south side of the tabernacle and were responsible to care for and move the ark, table, lampstand, altars, vessels of the sanctuary, and the screen (Numbers 3:29-31 ). The Kohathites could not touch these objects and could move them only after they had been properly prepared by Aaron and his sons. The result of attempting to move these objects without their first being fit with poles for carrying was death (Numbers 4:15 ,Numbers 4:15,4:17-20; Numbers 7:9; compare 1 Samuel 5-6; 2 Samuel 6:6-11 ). After the conquest, Kohathites descended from Aaron received thirteen cities from the tribes of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin (Joshua 21:4 ,Joshua 21:4,21:9-19; 1 Chronicles 6:54-60 ). The remaining Kohathites received ten cities from the tribes of Dan, Ephraim, and Manasseh (Joshua 21:5 ,Joshua 21:5,21:20-26; 1Chronicles 6:61,1 Chronicles 6:66-70 ). One of the latter ten was Shechem, a city of refuge. See Levitical Cities; Cities of Refuge . David appointed 120 Kohathites under the leadership of Uriel to bring the ark to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:5 ). When Jehoshaphat sought deliverance from the Moabites and Ammonites, the Kohathites led the people in prayer and praise (2 Chronicles 20:19 ). Mahath and Joel of the Kohathites helped in the purification of Israel's worship during the time of Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29:12 ). During Josiah's religious reforms, two Kohathite priests (Zechariah and Meshullam) helped supervise the work (2 Chronicles 34:12 ). When the Israelites returned from the Exile, some of the Kohathites were placed in charge of preparing the show bread every sabbath (1 Chronicles 9:32 ). Kohath* - 47x in 42v - Gen. 46:11; Exod. 6:16; Exod. 6:18; Num. 3:17; Num. 3:19; Num. 3:27; Num. 3:29; Num. 3:30; Num. 4:2; Num. 4:4; Num. 4:15; Num. 4:18; Num. 4:34; Num. 4:37; Num. 7:9; Num. 10:21; Num. 16:1; Num. 26:57; Num. 26:58; Jos. 21:4; Jos. 21:5; Jos. 21:10; Jos. 21:20; Jos. 21:26; 1 Chr. 6:1; 1 Chr. 6:2; 1 Chr. 6:16; 1 Chr. 6:18; 1 Chr. 6:22; 1 Chr. 6:33; 1 Chr. 6:38; 1 Chr. 6:54; 1 Chr. 6:61; 1 Chr. 6:66; 1 Chr. 6:70; 1 Chr. 9:32; 1 Chr. 15:5; 1 Chr. 23:6; 1 Chr. 23:12; 2 Chr. 20:19; 2 Chr. 29:12; 2 Chr. 34:12 Kohath - Fausset's Bible Dictionary ("assembly".) Levi's second son; came down to Egypt with Levi and Jacob (Genesis 46:11). Died 133 years old (Exodus 6:16; Exodus 6:18). From him sprang Moses and Aaron (1 Chronicles 6:2); but (See AMRAM their father is separated from the Amram, Kohath's son, by many omitted links in the genealogy, for at the Exodus Kohath's posterity numbered 2,750 between 30 and 50 years old (Numbers 4:35-36), and the males young and old 8,600, divided into the Amramites, Izharites, Hebronites, and Uzzielites (Numbers 3:25-27, etc.). Their charge on the march was on the S. side of the tabernacle, to bear (Numbers 4:15) the ark, the table, the candlestick, the altars, and vessels of the sanctuary, and the hangings, but not to take off the coverings put on by the sons of Aaron or touch them, on pain of death; Uzzah's fatal error (2 Samuel 6:6-7). They held high office as judges and rulers in things sacred and secular, and keepers of the dedicated treasures, and singers in the sanctuary (1 Chronicles 26:23-32; 2 Chronicles 20:19). Samuel was Kohathite, and therefore so was Heman the singer, Samuel's descendant. Their inheritance was in Manasseh, Ephraim, and Dan (1 Chronicles 6:61-70; Joshua 21:5; Joshua 21:20-26). QUESTION - Who were the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites? ANSWER - The Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites were three clans of the Levite tribe in Israel (Numbers 26:57). Each clan was comprised of descendants of the man from whom the clan received its name. Kohath was the father of the Kohathites, Gershon the father of the Gershonites, and Merari the father of the Merarites. Kohath, Gershon, and Merari were the three sons of Levi and grandsons of Jacob (Genesis 46:11). Moses, Aaron, and Miriam were Kohathites (1 Chronicles 6:2–3). The Levites filled the priestly roles in Israel and bore the responsibility of caring for the tabernacle. The Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites had specific roles within the Levite culture. The Kohathites, for example, had charge of caring for the objects associated with the sanctuary: “This is the service of the sons of Kohath in the tent of meeting: the most holy things” (Numbers 4:4–14). The Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and other holy items were the responsibility of the Kohathites (Numbers 10:21; 1 Chronicles 9:32). The Gershonites took care of the decorations in the sanctuary—curtains, ropes, and coverings (Numbers 4:24–26). The Merarites had the task of maintaining and carrying from place to place the pillars, bases, frames, pegs, and cords that created the structure of the tent of meeting. Since the Israelites were often on the move, the tent of meeting often had to be taken up and moved. Each clan had its responsibility to the sanctuary of God. The sanctuary objects that the Kohathites transported were to be carried on their shoulders with poles made for that purpose (Numbers 7:9; cf. Exodus 25:26–28). The Gershonites and Merarites, however, were given ox carts to help with the transport of their items; the Gershonites received two carts and four oxen, and the Merarites received four carts and eight oxen (Numbers 7:6–8). As Levites, the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites did not receive a specific territory in the Promised Land. Rather, they were given cities and pasturelands from among the territories of the other tribes by the command of the Lord (Joshua 21:2). The Kohathites received thirteen cities from the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and Simeon and ten cities from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Dan. The Gershonites received thirteen cities from Isaachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Manasseh. The Merarites got twelve cities from Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun. The distribution of the cities was decided by the drawing of lots (Joshua 21:1–8), and six of the Levites’ cities were designated as cities of refuge.GotQuestions.org Related Resources: How was God Himself the inheritance of the Levites? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between priests and Levites? | GotQuestions.org What was the Levitical priesthood? | GotQuestions.org Joshua 21:5 The rest of the sons of Kohath received ten cities by lot from the families of the tribe of Ephraim and from the tribe of Dan and from the half-tribe of Manasseh. Jos 21:20-26 Ge 46:11 Ex 6:16-25 Nu 3:27 1Ch 6:18,19,61,66-70 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries KOHATHITES RECEIVE 10 CITIES FROM EPHRAIM, DAN, WEST MANASSEH The rest of the sons of Kohath received ten cities by lot (goral) from the families of the tribe of Ephraim and from the tribe of Dan and from the half-tribe of Manasseh - See green triangles on the map. Note the repetition of lot (7x/6v - Josh 21:4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 40). Recall that Yahweh controlled the lot as stated in Pr 16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD." He was dispersing the Levites throughout the land exactly as He desired. Notice the phrase the rest refers to those Kohathites not descended from Aaron. There are five and a half tribes involved in these twenty-three cities given to t he Kohathites. GEORGE BUSH Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 21 Out of the tribe of Dan, &c., ten cities. A less number than was given out of the tribes above-mentioned, because their inheritance was less. The law by which the appropriation was to be regulated is contained Num. 35:8, ‘And the cities which ye shall give shall be the possession of Israel; from them that have many (cities), ye shall give many; but from them that have few, ye shall give few; every one shall give of his cities unto the Levites, according to his inheritance which he inheriteth.’ It may be remarked, that there is no evidence that the priests were bound to live in these and in no other cities. When the tabernacle was at Nob, both the priests and Levites dwelt there, 1 Sam. 21:1–7; and when the worship of God was established at Jerusalem, multitudes both of priests and Levites resided there, though it was no Levitical city; as did the courses of the priests afterwards at Jericho. This was a circumstance which Moses had foreseen, and for which he had provided, Deut. 18:6, &c. So, on the other hand, persons belonging to the other tribes were not precluded from living in the Levitical cities; as for instance Gibeah of Benjamin, which is. here made a Levitical city, v. 17, was always peopled by the Benjamites, as appears from Jdg. 19. Joshua 21:6 The sons of Gershon received thirteen cities by lot from the families of the tribe of Issachar and from the tribe of Asher and from the tribe of Naphtali and from the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan. Jos 21:27-33 Ex 6:16,17 Nu 3:21,22 1Ch 6:62,71-76 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries GERSHONITES RECEIVE 13 CITIES FROM ISSACHAR, ASHER, NAPHTALI, EAST MANASSEH The sons of Gershon received thirteen cities by lot (goral) from the families of the tribe of Issachar and from the tribe of Asher and from the tribe of Naphtali and from the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan (EAST OF JORDAN) See orange triangles on the map Gershon - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal name meaning, “expelled” or “bell.” Eldest son of Levi (Genesis 46:11 ). He was the progenitor of the Gershonites, who had specifically assigned responsibilities regarding the transporting of the tabernacle during the years of Israel's nomadic existence in the wilderness. Compare Exodus 6:16-17; Numbers 3:17-25; Numbers 4:22-41; Numbers 7:7; Numbers 10:17; Numbers 26:57; Joshua 21:6 ,Joshua 21:6,21:27 . First Chronicles often spells the name Gershom Gershon - Fausset's Bible Dictionary Oldest of Levi's three sons, born apparently before Jacob's going down to Egypt (Genesis 46:11). Kohath and his descendants Moses and Aaron's priestly line eclipsed Gershon's line. Gershon's sons were Libni and Shimei (1 Chronicles 6:17; 1 Chronicles 6:20-21; 1 Chronicles 6:39-43). Some of his descendants took part in the service of the sanctuary (1 Chronicles 23:7-11). Asaph, the famous sacred singer and seer, was one of them. Compare also under Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29:12). At the Sinai census the males of the sons of Gershon were 7500 (Numbers 3:21-22). The serving men were 2,630 (Numbers 4:38-41). They had charge of the tabernacle, tent, covering, hangings, curtain of the door, and cords (Numbers 3:25-26; Numbers 4:25-26). They had two covered wagons and four oxen for the service (Numbers 7:3; Numbers 7:7-8). The Merarites had twice as many wagons and oxen. The reason for this unequal division is not expressed; but on turning to Numbers 2 the reason undesignedly appears (an unstudied propriety attesting the truth of the narrative); the Gershonites had the lighter parts to bear, the "curtains," "tabernacle," i.e. the mishkan or great woven cloth consisting of ten breadths, the "tent" of goats' hair cloth, and the "covering" of rams' skins, and badgers (tachash ) skins, the hangings and their cords. (See BADGERS.) But the Merarites had the heavier and more solid framework to bear, the boards, bars, pillars, sockets, pins, their cords and instruments. Their station was "behind the tabernacle westward" (Numbers 3:23); on march they were in the rear of the first three tribes. Thirteen of the Levitical cities were allotted to them; all in the northern tribes, two of them cities of refuge (Joshua 21:27-33; 1 Chronicles 6:62; 1 Chronicles 6:71-76). Joshua 21:7 The sons of Merari according to their families received twelve cities from the tribe of Reuben and from the tribe of Gad and from the tribe of Zebulun. Jos 21:34-40 Ex 6:19 Nu 3:20 1Ch 6:63,77-81 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries MERARITES RECEIVE 12 CITIES FROM REUBEN, GAD, ZEBULUN, The sons of Merari according to their families received twelve cities from the tribe of Reuben and from the tribe of Gad and from the tribe of Zebulun - See blue triangles on the map In sum, the descendants of Kohath got twenty-three towns, the descendants of Gershon thirteen towns, and the descendants of Merari got twelve towns, giving us a total of 48. The beautiful thing is that everybody participated in ~ this project of the Levite cities. Nobody said, "I ain't givin' them any of my towns!" The average allotment was 4 town per tribe. The only exception to that was that there were 9 towns from Judah and Simeon and only 3 towns from Napthali. Merari - Smith's Bible Dictionary (bitter, unhappy). Third son of Levi, and head of the third great division, of the Levites, the Merarites. Genesis 46:8; Genesis 46:11. At the time of the Exodus, and the numbering in the wilderness, the Merarites consisted of two families, the Mahlites and the Mushites, Mahli and Mushi being either the two sons, or the son and grandson of Merari. 1 Chronicles 6:19; 1 Chronicles 6:47. Their chief, at that time, was Zuriel. Their charge was the cords of the Tabernacle and the court, and all the tools connected with setting them up. In the division of the land by Joshua, the Merarites had twelve cities assigned to them, out of Reuben, Gad and Zebulun. Joshua 21:7; Joshua 21:34-40; 1 Chronicles 6:63; 1 Chronicles 77-81. In the days of Hezekiah, the Merarites were still flourishing. 2 Chronicles 29:12; 2 Chronicles 29:15. Fausset Bible Dictionary Merari ("sorrowful"), because of the anguish attending his birth (Genesis 46:8; Genesis 46:11). (See LEVITES.) Third of Levi's sons, Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Born before Jacob's going down to Egypt; of the 70 who accompanied him. The Mahlites and Mushites were the two families of Merarites at the Exodus and in the wilderness (1 Chronicles 6:19; 1 Chronicles 6:47; Numbers 3:20; Numbers 3:33-37; Numbers 4:29-33; Numbers 4:42-45; Numbers 7:8; Numbers 10:17-21). They followed after Judah's standard, and before Reuben's in the march, to set up the tabernacle against the Kohathites' arrival. Their charge was the tabernacle boards, pillars, etc., four wagons and eight oxen being assigned them. Joshua assigned them 12, cities out of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun (Joshua 21:7; Joshua 21:34-40). They shared with the Gershonites and Kohathites the offices of singers, doorkeepers, etc., under David (1 Chronicles 15:1-6; 1 Chronicles 23:5-6; 1 Chronicles 23:21-23; 1 Chronicles 26:10; 1 Chronicles 26:19); in Nehemiah's time also (Nehemiah 11:15-16). Lord A. Hervey (Smith's Dictionary) supposes Jeduthun the patronymic title of the house, Ethan the head in David's time, and that Jeduthnn was brother of an ancestor of Ethan before Hashabiah (1 Chronicles 6:45; 1 Chronicles 25:3; 1 Chronicles 25:19) and son of Hilkiah or Amaziah. Thus, the "sons of Ethan" are distinct from "sons of Jeduthun," and the difficulty is explained how in David's time there could be sons of "sons of Jeduthun" above 30 years of age for they filled offices (1 Chronicles 26:10; 1 Chronicles 16:38), at the same time that Jeduthun is said to be" chief of the singers." Merari* - 40x in 38v - Gen. 46:11; Exod. 6:16; Exod. 6:19; Num. 3:17; Num. 3:20; Num. 3:33; Num. 3:35; Num. 3:36; Num. 4:29; Num. 4:33; Num. 4:42; Num. 4:45; Num. 7:8; Num. 10:17; Num. 26:57; Jos. 21:7; Jos. 21:34; Jos. 21:40; 1 Chr. 6:1; 1 Chr. 6:16; 1 Chr. 6:19; 1 Chr. 6:29; 1 Chr. 6:44; 1 Chr. 6:47; 1 Chr. 6:63; 1 Chr. 6:77; 1 Chr. 9:14; 1 Chr. 15:6; 1 Chr. 15:17; 1 Chr. 23:6; 1 Chr. 23:21; 1 Chr. 24:26; 1 Chr. 24:27; 1 Chr. 26:10; 1 Chr. 26:19; 2 Chr. 29:12; 2 Chr. 34:12; Ezr. 8:19 Joshua 21:8 Now the sons of Israel gave by lot to the Levites these cities with their pasture lands, as the LORD had commanded through Moses. by lot: Jos 21:3 18:6 Nu 33:54 35:3 Pr 16:33 18:18 as the Lord: Nu 32:2 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Joshua 21:3 So the sons of Israel gave the Levites from their inheritance these cities with their pasture lands, according to the command of the LORD. REITERATION OF ISRAEL'S OBEDIENT GIVING TO LEVITES Now the sons of Israel gave by lot (goral) to the Levites these cities with their pasture lands, as the LORD had commanded through Moses - In Joshua 21:3 these cities were apparently freely given from each tribes inheritance. Joshua 21:9 They gave these cities which are here mentioned by name from the tribe of the sons of Judah and from the tribe of the sons of Simeon; these cities: Jos 21:13-18 1Ch 6:65 Joshua 21 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries CITIES FROM JUDAH & SIMEON They gave these cities which are here mentioned by name from the tribe of the sons of Judah and from the tribe of the sons of Simeon - NET = "They assigned from the tribes of Judah and Simeon the cities listed below." This is a preview of the lists of cities in Joshua 21:13-18. Matthew