Joshua 21:28

From the tribe of Issachar they were given Kishion, Daberath,

Study Bible

From the tribe of Issachar
The tribe of Issachar was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. Issachar's territory was located in the fertile Jezreel Valley, an area known for its agricultural productivity. This tribe is often associated with wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32. The allocation of cities to the Levites from Issachar's territory reflects the integration of religious duties within the community, emphasizing the importance of spiritual leadership.

they were given Kishion
Kishion is identified as a Levitical city within the territory of Issachar. The Levites, who were set apart for religious duties, did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes but were instead given specific cities throughout Israel. This distribution ensured that the Levites could perform their priestly functions and teach the Law across the nation. Kishion's exact location is uncertain today, but it is believed to have been situated in the Jezreel Valley, contributing to the spiritual and communal life of the region.

Daberath
Daberath, also known as Daberah, was another city allocated to the Levites from the tribe of Issachar. It is mentioned in Joshua 19:12 as part of Issachar's inheritance. Daberath is identified with the modern village of Daburiyya, located at the base of Mount Tabor. This city held strategic importance due to its proximity to key trade routes and its location near Mount Tabor, a site of significant biblical events, including the battle led by Deborah and Barak against Sisera (Judges 4). The presence of Levites in Daberath would have provided spiritual guidance and maintained the worship practices central to Israelite identity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Issachar
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. Known for their wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32).

2. Kishion
A city allocated to the Levites within the territory of Issachar. It served as a Levitical city, providing a place for the Levites to live and serve.

3. Daberath
Another city given to the Levites from the tribe of Issachar. It was strategically located near Mount Tabor.

4. Levites
The priestly tribe of Israel, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They did not receive a large inheritance of land like the other tribes but were given specific cities to dwell in.

5. Allocation of Cities
This event is part of the broader distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, with specific cities designated for the Levites to ensure their sustenance and ability to perform their duties.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's care and provision for those dedicated to His service. It reminds us that God provides for our needs when we commit our lives to Him.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
The Levites were set apart for spiritual leadership and service. This highlights the importance of having dedicated individuals who lead and guide others in spiritual matters.

Community Support for Ministry
The tribes of Israel supported the Levites by providing them with cities. This teaches us the importance of supporting those in ministry and ensuring they have the resources needed to fulfill their calling.

Inheritance Beyond Material Possessions
The Levites' inheritance was not land but their relationship with God and their role in His service. This challenges us to value spiritual inheritance over material possessions.

Faithfulness in Fulfilling God's Commands
The distribution of cities as commanded by God shows the importance of obedience and faithfulness in carrying out God's instructions, both individually and as a community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Levites reflect God's provision for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in supporting our church leaders today?

2. In what ways does the role of the Levites as spiritual leaders parallel the responsibilities of church leaders in the New Testament?

3. How can we, like the Levites, find our inheritance and identity in God rather than in material possessions?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of the Israelites in fulfilling God's commands regarding the Levites' cities, and how can we apply these lessons in our own lives?

5. How does the concept of community support for ministry in Joshua 21:28 relate to the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ and the support of one another?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the commandment given by God to Moses regarding the provision of cities for the Levites, emphasizing their role and the importance of their service.

1 Chronicles 6
Provides a genealogical record of the Levites and lists the cities given to them, including Kishion and Daberath, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the inheritance of the Levites, explaining that the Lord Himself is their inheritance, which underscores their unique role and dependence on God.