1 Chronicles 6:62

And to the sons of Gershom throughout their families out of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, thirteen cities.

1 Chronicles 6:62 (KJV)

Context

1 Chronicles 6 traces the genealogy of Levi and the cities assigned to the Levites. Gershom was Levi’s firstborn son, and his descendants formed one of the three main Levitical divisions. This verse lists thirteen cities for the Gershomites from Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, east of the Jordan River.

Meaning

The Levites received no single territory like the other tribes. Instead, God commanded that they live in cities scattered throughout Israel, with pasturelands for their livestock (Numbers 35:1-8). This arrangement placed the priests and teachers of God’s law among all the people, so every tribe could benefit from their ministry. The specific number, thirteen, shows God’s careful and complete provision for His servants.

Biblical connections

Joshua 21 records the same distribution of Levitical cities, including cities of refuge. That parallel confirms the orderly fulfillment of God’s command. The mention of Manasseh in Bashan shows that God’s care extended even to the eastern side of the Jordan, not just the main land of Canaan.

Application

God’s detailed provision for the Gershomites teaches us that He cares for the practical needs of those who serve Him. Just as the Levites depended on the tribes for homes and pasture, believers today are called to support one another in the body of Christ. The scattered placement of the Levites also shows the value of unity: God’s people are meant to live among others, sharing life and resources, not isolated in one place.

Reflection

This verse invites us to trust that God sees our daily needs and provides for them in orderly ways. It also challenges us to be generous, as the tribes were, in supporting those who devote themselves to spiritual service. The record of thirteen cities is not merely a list; it is a witness to God’s faithfulness and His desire for His people to dwell together in harmony.