Joshua 21:1

Now the family heads of the Levites approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the heads of the other tribes of Israel

Study Bible

Now the heads of the Levite families
The Levites were a distinct tribe set apart for religious duties and service to God. The Hebrew word for "heads" is "רָאשִׁים" (roshim), indicating leaders or chiefs. This highlights the organized structure within the tribe of Levi, emphasizing their role in spiritual leadership. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes, as their inheritance was the Lord Himself (Numbers 18:20). This phrase sets the stage for the Levites' request for cities to dwell in, as promised by God.

approached the priest Eleazar
Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served as the high priest after Aaron's death. The Hebrew root for "approached" is "קָרַב" (qarav), meaning to come near or draw close, often used in the context of approaching God or His representatives. This signifies the Levites' respect for the priestly authority and the proper protocol in seeking their rightful inheritance. Eleazar's role underscores the continuity of the priestly line and the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding the nation.

Joshua son of Nun
Joshua, the successor of Moses, was a central figure in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, "יְהוֹשֻׁעַ" (Yehoshua), means "The Lord is salvation," reflecting his role as a deliverer and leader. Joshua's presence in this verse highlights his responsibility in ensuring the fulfillment of God's promises to all tribes, including the Levites. His leadership exemplifies faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

and the heads of the other tribes of Israel
The inclusion of the heads of the other tribes signifies a collective decision-making process and unity among the tribes of Israel. The Hebrew word for "heads" is again "רָאשִׁים" (roshim), indicating leaders who represent their respective tribes. This phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of Israelite society, where decisions were made with the involvement of all tribal leaders, ensuring fairness and adherence to God's instructions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levite Families
The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They did not receive a specific territory like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in.

2. Eleazar the Priest
Eleazar was the son of Aaron and served as the high priest. He played a crucial role in the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel.

3. Joshua son of Nun
Joshua was the leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing its division among the tribes.

4. Heads of the Other Tribes of Israel
These were the leaders of the remaining tribes who were involved in the decision-making and allocation of land.

5. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land that God had sworn to give to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Provision
God fulfills His promises, as seen in the provision of cities for the Levites. This reminds us of His faithfulness in our lives.

The Role of Spiritual Leadership
The Levites' role underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and service. We are called to support and respect those who lead us spiritually.

Community and Interdependence
The Levites' dependence on other tribes for their cities illustrates the interdependence within the body of Christ. We are to support one another in our unique roles.

Obedience to God's Commands
The allocation of cities to the Levites was in obedience to God's command. Our lives should reflect a commitment to following God's instructions.

Inheritance Beyond Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was not land but their service to God, reminding us that our ultimate inheritance is spiritual, not material.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we support and honor spiritual leaders in our community, similar to the support given to the Levites?

3. How does the concept of interdependence among the tribes of Israel apply to the church today?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to be more obedient to God's commands, as the Israelites were in allocating cities to the Levites?

5. How can we shift our focus from material inheritance to spiritual inheritance in our daily lives, following the example of the Levites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter provides the initial command from God regarding the allocation of cities to the Levites, highlighting the fulfillment of God's instructions in Joshua 21.

Deuteronomy 18
This passage outlines the role and inheritance of the Levites, emphasizing their unique position among the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 7
This New Testament passage discusses the priesthood, drawing connections between the Levitical priesthood and the priesthood of Jesus Christ.