1 Chronicles 6:71

Unto the sons of Gershom were given out of the family of the half tribe of Manasseh, Golan in Bashan with her suburbs, and Ashtaroth with her suburbs:

1 Chronicles 6:71 (KJV)

Context

First Chronicles 6:71 records part of the inheritance given to the Gershomites, a Levitical clan. They received cities from the half-tribe of Manasseh, east of the Jordan River. The verse names Golan in Bashan and Ashtaroth, along with their pasturelands. This record is part of a larger list in 1 Chronicles 6 detailing allotments for Levitical families. The Gershomites were descendants of Gershom, Levi’s firstborn son.

Unlike other tribes, Levi did not receive a unified territory. Because they were dedicated to the Lord’s service, God declared that He was their inheritance. The other tribes were commanded to give the Levites cities and pasturelands for their livestock. By settling the Gershomites in Golan and Ashtaroth, God ensured that even eastern tribes had access to religious instruction and the administration of the law. The Levites served as a unifying spiritual presence, preventing isolation from the nation’s religious center.

Meaning

The word “suburbs” in the King James Version refers to open pasturelands around each city. These lands were for grazing livestock, not farming. This practical provision shows that God cared for the material needs of those who served Him. The Levites had no tribal territory, yet they received places to live and means to sustain their families and flocks.

Golan and Ashtaroth also carry historical weight. Golan in Bashan was a significant city east of the Jordan. Ashtaroth had been a royal city of Og, king of Bashan, and was associated with Canaanite idolatry. The transformation of a former pagan stronghold into a city inhabited by the Lord’s servants illustrates the conquest and sanctification of the land under God’s covenant.

Biblical connections

Golan in Bashan holds importance beyond being a Levitical residence. According to Joshua 20:8 and 21:27, Golan was one of the six cities of refuge. These cities were safe havens for those who committed accidental manslaughter. A person fleeing to Golan could find asylum from the avenger of blood until a proper trial. The parallel account in Joshua 21:27 also lists Beeshterah, likely another name for Ashtaroth, as the second city given to the Gershomites from the half-tribe of Manasseh. This shows the consistency of the biblical record.

The fact that a Levitical city doubled as a city of refuge emphasizes the Levites’ role in administering justice mixed with mercy. It reflects God’s heart, providing grace and protection for the unintentional offender while upholding the sanctity of life. The inclusion of cities of refuge among Levitical cities points to the Levites’ role in justice and mercy in Israel.

Application

For the modern believer, this verse illustrates that God is the ultimate provider for those who serve Him, often working through the community of faith. The dispersion of the Levites serves as a model for believers scattered to be salt and light, ensuring the knowledge of God is accessible everywhere.

The city of refuge at Golan stands as a powerful type of the refuge believers find in Christ. Just as the manslayer fled to Golan for safety, we flee to God’s grace for mercy and deliverance. The Levites’ inheritance reminds us that our greatest portion is not material wealth but our relationship with the Lord Himself.

Reflection

This verse calls us to trust in God’s faithful provision. He who gave the Levites cities and pasturelands will also care for those who devote themselves to His service. The record of Golan and Ashtaroth is not merely a list of places; it is a testimony that God remembers His servants and supplies their needs. As we read this ancient record, we are invited to rest in the assurance that our inheritance is not in earthly possessions but in the Lord Himself.