Joshua 21:16

Ain, Juttah, and Beth-shemesh--nine cities from these two tribes, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

Ain, Juttah, and Beth-shemesh
These cities were part of the allotment given to the Levites, specifically the descendants of Aaron, as part of their inheritance in the Promised Land. Ain is often associated with a spring or fountain, indicating a place of water, which was crucial for settlement and agriculture. Juttah is located in the hill country of Judah and is mentioned in connection with the priestly city of Hebron. Beth-shemesh, meaning "house of the sun," was a significant city in the Shephelah region, known for its strategic location and later as a site where the Ark of the Covenant was returned by the Philistines (1 Samuel 6:12-15).

Nine cities from these two tribes
The two tribes referred to here are Judah and Simeon. The allocation of cities to the Levites from these tribes underscores the integration of the priestly class within the broader tribal structure of Israel. The number nine signifies completeness in this context, as it represents the full allotment from these particular tribal lands. This distribution reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to provide for the Levites, who had no territorial inheritance of their own (Numbers 18:20-24).

Together with their pasturelands
The inclusion of pasturelands was essential for the Levites, as it provided them with the means to sustain their livestock and, by extension, their families. This provision ensured that the Levites could focus on their religious duties without the burden of agricultural labor. The pasturelands also symbolize God's provision and care for those dedicated to His service, echoing the broader biblical theme of God as a shepherd who provides for His flock (Psalm 23:1-2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ain
A city allocated to the Levites within the territory of Judah. Its name means "spring" or "fountain," indicating a place of water, which is essential for life and sustenance.

2. Juttah
Another city given to the Levites, located in the hill country of Judah. It is significant as a Levitical city, providing a place for the Levites to live and serve.

3. Beth-shemesh
A city whose name means "house of the sun." It was also a Levitical city and played a role in various biblical events, including the return of the Ark of the Covenant.

4. Levites
The tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were given cities and pasturelands instead of a contiguous territory.

5. Tribes of Judah and Simeon
The territories from which these cities were allocated to the Levites, demonstrating the shared responsibility among the tribes to support the Levitical priesthood.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites shows God's care and provision for those dedicated to His service. We are reminded to support those who serve in ministry today.

Community Responsibility
The shared responsibility among the tribes to provide for the Levites teaches us about the importance of community support and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes.

Spiritual Inheritance
The Levites' lack of a territorial inheritance points to a spiritual inheritance, reminding us that our ultimate inheritance is in Christ and not in earthly possessions.

Role of Worship and Service
The presence of Levitical cities throughout Israel underscores the centrality of worship and service to God in the life of His people. We are called to prioritize worship and service in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the allocation of cities to the Levites teach us about God's provision for those who serve Him?

2. How can we apply the principle of community responsibility in supporting our church leaders and ministries today?

3. In what ways does the concept of a spiritual inheritance challenge our views on material possessions and wealth?

4. How does the distribution of Levitical cities throughout Israel reflect the importance of worship and service in our daily lives?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Levites' dependence on the other tribes that can be applied to our relationships within the church community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command to give cities to the Levites, emphasizing their role and the importance of their service to the community.

1 Chronicles 6
Provides a genealogical record of the Levites and lists the cities given to them, reinforcing the distribution of these cities as part of God's plan.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the provision for the Levites, highlighting their dependence on the offerings and support from the other tribes, as they had no inheritance of their own.