Joshua 21:20

The remaining Kohathite clans of the Levites were allotted these cities: From the tribe of Ephraim

Study Bible

The remaining Kohathite clans of the Levites were allotted these cities:
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descendants of Levi, the son of Jacob. The Levites were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities within the territories of other tribes. The Kohathites, specifically, were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects. This allocation of cities reflects the fulfillment of God's command in Numbers 35:1-8, where the Levites were to be given cities to dwell in, along with pasturelands for their livestock. The distribution of these cities among the Levites ensured that they were spread throughout Israel, facilitating their role in teaching the Law and maintaining the spiritual life of the nation.

From the tribe of Ephraim
Ephraim was one of the tribes descended from Joseph, Jacob's son, and was often associated with leadership and prominence in Israel. The tribe of Ephraim held a significant position in the central hill country of Canaan, an area known for its fertility and strategic importance. The allocation of cities to the Kohathites within Ephraim's territory underscores the integration of the Levites into the life of the nation, ensuring that spiritual guidance was accessible to all tribes. Ephraim's central location also symbolically represents the centrality of worship and the presence of God among His people. This connection to Ephraim can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is central to the faith and life of believers, providing spiritual leadership and guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kohathites
A division of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects.

2. Levites
The tribe set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle and later the Temple. They did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in.

3. Tribe of Ephraim
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Ephraim. This tribe was allotted a significant portion of land in the central region of Canaan.

4. Cities of Refuge
Among the cities given to the Levites, some were designated as cities of refuge, where individuals who committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum.

5. Allotment of Cities
The distribution of cities to the Levites was part of the broader division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as commanded by God through Moses and executed by Joshua.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Order
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's provision and order. He ensures that those who serve Him are cared for, even without a traditional inheritance.

Role of the Levites
The Levites' role as spiritual leaders and caretakers of the sacred is a reminder of the importance of spiritual leadership and service in the community of faith.

Community and Responsibility
The integration of the Levites into various tribal territories highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility in the life of God's people.

Spiritual Inheritance
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the Lord Himself, pointing to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can this principle be applied in the church today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites as spiritual leaders inform our understanding of spiritual leadership in the New Testament church?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge relate to the New Testament understanding of Christ as our refuge?

4. What can we learn from the Levites' lack of a traditional inheritance about the nature of our spiritual inheritance in Christ?

5. How does the integration of the Levites into the territories of other tribes illustrate the importance of community and shared responsibility among believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command given by God to Moses regarding the provision of cities for the Levites, including cities of refuge.

1 Chronicles 6
Provides a genealogical record of the Levites, including the Kohathites, and details their assigned cities.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood and the role of the Levites, contrasting it with the priesthood of Melchizedek, which is fulfilled in Christ.