In the Old Testament, the concept of "portions for the priests" refers to the specific allocations and provisions designated for the Levitical priesthood. These portions were established by God to ensure that the priests, who were set apart for sacred duties and service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, were adequately provided for, as they did not have a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation for the portions for the priests is laid out in several key passages in the Pentateuch. In Numbers 18:20-21, the LORD speaks to Aaron, saying, "You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites. Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the work of the Tent of Meeting" . This passage highlights that the priests' inheritance was not land but the LORD Himself and the tithes of the people.

Types of Portions

1. Tithes and Offerings: The Levites received the tithes from the Israelites, which were a tenth of the produce and livestock (Leviticus 27:30-33). From these tithes, the Levites were to offer a tenth to the priests (Numbers 18:26-28).

2. Sacrificial Portions: Portions of certain sacrifices were designated for the priests. For example, in Leviticus 7:31-34, the breast and right thigh of the peace offerings were given to the priests. Additionally, the priests received portions of the grain offerings (Leviticus 2:3, 10).

3. Firstfruits and Firstborn: The firstfruits of the harvest and the firstborn of animals were also given to the priests (Deuteronomy 18:4; Numbers 18:12-18). These offerings were a sign of gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision.

4. Dedicated Items: Items and property dedicated to the LORD were often given to the priests (Leviticus 27:21). This included things vowed to God or items that could not be redeemed.

Purpose and Significance

The portions for the priests served several purposes. Primarily, they provided for the material needs of the priests and Levites, allowing them to focus on their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor. This system underscored the principle that those who serve at the altar should share in the offerings of the altar (1 Corinthians 9:13).

Moreover, these portions symbolized the holiness and separation of the priesthood. By receiving their sustenance from the offerings dedicated to God, the priests were continually reminded of their sacred role and the need to maintain purity and dedication in their service.

New Testament Reflection

While the specific Levitical system of portions is not carried over into the New Testament, the principle of supporting those in ministry remains. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 9:14, states, "In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel" . This reflects the continuity of God's provision for those dedicated to His service, albeit in a different covenantal context.

In summary, the portions for the priests were a divinely instituted means of provision, reflecting the unique role of the priesthood in Israel's worship and community life. These provisions ensured that the priests could fulfill their duties in leading the people in worship and maintaining the sanctity of the sacrificial system.