Joshua 21:29

Jarmuth, and En-gannim--four cities, together with their pasturelands.

Study Bible

Jarmuth
Jarmuth was a city located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Issachar. It is mentioned in the context of the Levitical cities given to the descendants of Gershon. Historically, Jarmuth was one of the cities that joined the coalition against Joshua during the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 10:3). This city is distinct from the Jarmuth in the territory of Judah. Archaeological evidence suggests that Jarmuth was a fortified city, indicative of its strategic importance in the region.

and En-gannim
En-gannim, meaning "spring of gardens," was another city given to the Levites. It was also located in the territory of Issachar. The name suggests a fertile area, likely with abundant water sources, which would have been crucial for agriculture and sustaining life. En-gannim is identified with the modern-day Jenin, a city in the northern West Bank. The presence of a spring would have made it a valuable location for settlement and agriculture.

—four cities, together with their pasturelands.
The mention of "four cities" refers to the total number of Levitical cities allocated in this passage, including Jarmuth and En-gannim. The inclusion of "pasturelands" highlights the provision for the Levites, who did not receive a tribal inheritance of land like the other tribes. Instead, they were given cities and surrounding lands to support their livestock and sustain their families. This arrangement underscores the importance of the Levites' role in Israelite society, as they were set apart for religious duties and service to God. The allocation of cities and pasturelands ensured their material needs were met, allowing them to focus on their spiritual responsibilities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jarmuth
A city allocated to the Levites within the territory of Issachar. It was one of the cities given to the Levites as part of their inheritance, emphasizing the provision for those who served in the temple and religious duties.

2. En-gannim
Another city given to the Levites in the territory of Issachar. The name means "fountain of gardens," indicating a place of sustenance and life, which is fitting for a city given to those who ministered to the spiritual needs of Israel.

3. Levites
The tribe of Levi was set apart for religious duties and service to God. They did not receive a large territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given specific cities and pasturelands throughout Israel.

4. Issachar
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, whose territory included the cities of Jarmuth and En-gannim. The tribe of Issachar was known for its agricultural richness and strategic location.

5. Pasturelands
These lands were essential for the Levites' sustenance, providing for their livestock and ensuring their ability to focus on their spiritual duties without the need for extensive agricultural labor.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
Just as God provided for the Levites through the allocation of cities and pasturelands, He continues to provide for those who serve Him today. This encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to support those in ministry.

Spiritual Inheritance
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the privilege of serving God. This teaches us that our true inheritance is spiritual, found in our relationship with God and our service to Him.

Community Responsibility
The distribution of cities to the Levites highlights the responsibility of the community to support those who minister. Believers are called to support their spiritual leaders through prayer, encouragement, and practical means.

Living as a Royal Priesthood
As Christians, we are called to live as a royal priesthood, serving God and others. This involves dedicating our lives to spiritual service and recognizing our role in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the concept of spiritual inheritance challenge our understanding of what it means to be blessed by God?

3. How can the community responsibility to support the Levites inform our approach to supporting church leaders and ministries in our local context?

4. What does it mean for us to live as a "royal priesthood" in our daily lives, and how can we practically fulfill this calling?

5. How can the example of the Levites' dedication to service inspire us to prioritize our spiritual responsibilities over material possessions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The allocation of cities to the Levites is connected to Numbers 35, where God commands Moses to give the Levites cities to dwell in, along with pasturelands. This reflects God's provision for those who serve Him.

The role of the Levites is further elaborated in Deuteronomy 18, which outlines their duties and the support they receive from the other tribes, emphasizing the communal responsibility to support spiritual leaders.

The concept of spiritual inheritance and provision is echoed in 1 Peter 2, where believers are described as a royal priesthood, highlighting the spiritual inheritance and responsibilities of all Christians.