1 Chronicles 6:55

They were given Hebron in the land of Judah and its surrounding pasturelands.

Study Bible

They were given Hebron
Hebron is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich biblical history. It was originally called Kiriath Arba and is located in the hill country of Judah. Hebron holds significant importance as it was the place where Abraham settled and later purchased the cave of Machpelah as a burial site for his wife Sarah, and eventually for himself and other patriarchs. This city became a Levitical city, given to the descendants of Aaron, the priestly line, as part of their inheritance. The allocation of Hebron to the Levites underscores its spiritual significance, as it was a city of refuge and a center for religious activity. Hebron's connection to the patriarchs and its role as a Levitical city highlight its importance in Israel's religious and cultural history.

in the land of Judah
Judah was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after one of Jacob's sons. The tribe of Judah was known for its leadership and strength, and it played a central role in the history of Israel. The land of Judah was a fertile and strategically important region, encompassing Jerusalem, the future capital of Israel. The allocation of Hebron within Judah's territory to the Levites signifies the integration of religious and tribal leadership. Judah's prominence is further emphasized by its association with King David, who was anointed in Hebron and later established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. The tribe of Judah is also prophetically significant, as it is from this tribe that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, is prophesied to come, fulfilling the promise of a ruler from the line of David.

and its surrounding pasturelands
The mention of surrounding pasturelands indicates the practical provision for the Levites, who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities and surrounding lands to support their livestock and sustain their families. This arrangement allowed the Levites to focus on their priestly duties and service to the community. The pasturelands provided necessary resources for the Levites' livelihood, ensuring they could fulfill their religious responsibilities without the burden of agricultural labor. This provision reflects the communal and supportive structure of Israelite society, where the needs of the priestly class were met by the contributions of the other tribes. The allocation of pasturelands also underscores the importance of land and resources in the ancient Near Eastern context, where agriculture and livestock were central to survival and prosperity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hebron
A significant city in the land of Judah, Hebron is one of the oldest cities in the region and holds historical and spiritual importance. It was given to the Levites as a city of refuge and a place for their dwelling and service.

2. The Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were not given a specific territory like the other tribes but were instead allocated cities and surrounding pasturelands throughout Israel.

3. The Land of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, Judah was a prominent tribe known for its leadership and strength. The allocation of Hebron within Judah highlights the tribe's significance and the Levites' role within it.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Spiritual Heritage
The allocation of Hebron to the Levites underscores the importance of maintaining a spiritual heritage and a place for worship and service to God.

God's Provision for His Servants
The Levites' receipt of cities and pasturelands demonstrates God's provision for those dedicated to His service, ensuring they have what they need to fulfill their roles.

The Role of Community in Faith
The integration of the Levites within the territories of other tribes highlights the importance of community and mutual support in the life of faith.

The Significance of Place in Worship
Hebron's allocation as a city of refuge and a Levitical city points to the significance of having dedicated places for worship and spiritual refuge.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of Hebron to the Levites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in our own communities today?

2. In what ways does the history of Hebron enhance our understanding of its significance in the biblical account?

3. How can the concept of cities of refuge inform our understanding of God's justice and mercy, and how can we create spaces of refuge in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the integration of the Levites into the territories of other tribes about the role of community in our spiritual lives?

5. How does the provision of pasturelands to the Levites illustrate the balance between spiritual and practical needs, and how can we apply this balance in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21:11-13
This passage details the allocation of Hebron to the Levites, emphasizing its role as a city of refuge and its importance in the Levitical system.

Genesis 23:2
Hebron is mentioned as the place where Sarah died, highlighting its longstanding significance in biblical history.

Numbers 35:2-3
This passage outlines the command to give cities and pasturelands to the Levites, providing context for the allocation described in 1 Chronicles 6:55.