Book of Numbers - Chapter 35 - Verse 7

In this verse from the book of Numbers, God instructs Moses and the Israelites to allocate forty-eight cities to the Levites as their inheritance. The Levites were members of the tribe of Levi who were designated by God to be priests and caretakers of the tabernacle. These cities were to be given with their surrounding pasturelands, known as suburbs, to provide for the Levites and their livestock. The allocation of these cities served as a way to ensure that the Levites could carry out their duties of leading worship, teaching the law, and performing ceremonial rituals throughout the land of Israel. By providing the Levites with these cities, God was demonstrating His care for His chosen people and ensuring that the religious practices and teachings would continue to be passed down from generation to generation. This verse highlights the importance of honoring and supporting those who are called to serve God and His people.

In this verse from the book of Numbers, the allocation of forty-eight cities to the Levites is detailed. The significance of the number forty-eight in the Bible is often viewed as symbolic of completion, as it is a multiple of twelve which represents governmental perfection and foundation. The Levites were the priestly tribe of Israel, set apart for the service of the tabernacle and temple and were not given a portion of land like the other tribes. Instead, they were allocated cities scattered throughout the territory of the other tribes. The provision of these cities with their suburbs was essential for the Levites to carry out their duties, as they were to be available for worship and for teaching the Law to the people. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of providing for those who are devoted to the service of God and the community, showing that the Lord values and provides for those who dedicate their lives to His work.