1 Chronicles 6:70

And from the half-tribe of Manasseh the remaining clans of the Kohathites were given Aner and Bileam, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

And from the half-tribe of Manasseh
The half-tribe of Manasseh refers to the division of the tribe of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, into two groups. This division occurred because the tribe settled on both sides of the Jordan River. The eastern half settled in the land of Gilead, while the western half settled in Canaan. This allocation highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to the descendants of Joseph, ensuring they received a significant portion of the Promised Land. The half-tribe of Manasseh's involvement in providing cities to the Levites underscores their role in supporting the religious and spiritual life of Israel.

the rest of the clans of the Kohathites
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Kohath, the second son of Levi. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects, including the Ark of the Covenant, during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. The "rest of the clans" indicates that this allocation was part of a broader distribution of cities to the Levites, as the Kohathites were spread across different tribal territories. This distribution ensured that the Levites, who had no inheritance of their own, were integrated into the community and could perform their priestly duties.

were given Aner and Bileam
Aner and Bileam were cities allocated to the Kohathites from the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh. These cities, along with their pasturelands, provided the necessary resources for the Levites to sustain themselves and their families. The specific mention of these cities highlights the organized and systematic approach to ensuring the Levites were supported throughout Israel. While the exact locations of Aner and Bileam are not definitively known today, their inclusion in the biblical record emphasizes the historical reality of the Levitical cities.

together with their pasturelands
The inclusion of pasturelands was crucial for the Levites, as it provided them with the means to raise livestock and sustain their communities. This provision reflects the practical needs of the Levites, who, unlike other tribes, did not receive a large territorial inheritance. The pasturelands ensured that the Levites could maintain a degree of self-sufficiency while focusing on their religious duties. This arrangement also symbolizes the broader principle of God's provision for those dedicated to His service, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
This refers to one of the two divisions of the tribe of Manasseh, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe was split between land on the east and west of the Jordan River.

2. Aner
A city given to the Levites, specifically to the Kohathites, as part of their inheritance. It was located in the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh.

3. Bileam
Another city allocated to the Kohathites, also within the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh.

4. Kohathites
A clan within the Levites, descendants of Kohath, who was one of the sons of Levi. The Kohathites had specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple.

5. Pasturelands
These were lands surrounding the cities given to the Levites for their livestock, as they did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites demonstrates God's faithfulness in providing for those who serve Him. This reminds us that God is attentive to the needs of His people, especially those dedicated to His service.

The Role of the Levites
The Levites were set apart for specific duties related to worship and the tabernacle. This calls us to recognize and respect the roles and responsibilities within the body of Christ today.

Community Support and Responsibility
The provision for the Levites came from the other tribes, illustrating the importance of community support. In the church, we are called to support one another, especially those in ministry.

Inheritance Beyond Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the Lord Himself. This challenges us to value our spiritual inheritance in Christ above material possessions.

Faithfulness in Fulfilling God's Commands
The distribution of cities to the Levites was a fulfillment of God's command. It encourages us to be faithful in carrying out God's instructions in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for the Levites in 1 Chronicles 6:70 reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites in the Old Testament parallel the roles within the church today, and how can we honor these roles?

3. How does the concept of community support in the allocation of cities to the Levites challenge us to support one another in our local church?

4. What does the Levites' inheritance teach us about valuing our spiritual inheritance in Christ, and how can this perspective influence our daily lives?

5. How can we ensure that we are faithful in fulfilling God's commands, as seen in the distribution of cities to the Levites, in our personal and communal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 21
This chapter provides a parallel account of the allocation of cities to the Levites, including the cities of Aner and Bileam. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to provide for the Levites.

Numbers 35
This passage outlines the command from God to give cities and pasturelands to the Levites, emphasizing their unique role and provision within Israel.

Deuteronomy 18
This chapter discusses the inheritance of the Levites, underscoring their dependence on the Lord and the community for their sustenance.