“And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and focuses on the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. It contains various laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God through Moses.
Explanation:In Numbers 18, God is instructing Aaron, the high priest, and his sons, the Levites, regarding their responsibilities and privileges concerning the tabernacle and the offerings brought by the people. This verse specifically addresses the portion and inheritance of Aaron among the children of Israel.
No Inheritance in the Land:The verse begins by stating that Aaron and his descendants, being from the tribe of Levi, would not receive a portion of the land of Canaan like the other tribes of Israel. While each of the twelve tribes was allocated an inheritance in the Promised Land, the tribe of Levi was set apart for the service of the Lord as priests and assistants in the tabernacle (later in the temple). Hence, they did not receive a physical inheritance of land like the other tribes.
God is the Inheritance:Instead of receiving a portion of land, God declares Himself to be Aaron’s portion and inheritance among the children of Israel. This means that God Himself would be the source of provision and sustenance for the Levites, particularly for Aaron and his descendants who served as the high priests. They would rely on God’s provision through the offerings brought by the people to the tabernacle.
Lessons and Applications:
- Dependence on God:The verse highlights the importance of relying on God for our provision and sustenance. Aaron and his descendants had to trust in God to meet their needs instead of possessing land or wealth. It serves as a reminder to us that our ultimate security and sustenance come from God, who is our true inheritance.
- Prioritising Spiritual Responsibilities:The tribe of Levi, including Aaron and his descendants, were chosen for the sacred duty of serving in the tabernacle. Their primary focus was on ministering to God and the spiritual well-being of the people. This verse emphasises the need to prioritise spiritual responsibilities over material possessions. Sometimes, God may call us to dedicate our lives to serving Him in specific ways that require us to let go of worldly ambitions or possessions.
- Contentment in God:Though the Levites did not possess a physical inheritance, God assured them that He would be sufficient for all their needs. Similarly, as believers, our contentment should not be rooted in worldly possessions or achievements but in our relationship with God. When we find our satisfaction in God alone, we experience true contentment and fulfilment.
- The Priesthood of Believers:While this verse specifically addresses Aaron and the Levites, it also reflects a broader principle. In the New Testament, believers are described as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). We, too, have no earthly inheritance, as our ultimate portion and inheritance are found in Christ. As priests, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1) and minister to others, sharing the Gospel and extending God’s love and grace to those around us.
In summary, Numbers 18:20 highlights the unique position of Aaron and the Levites as they served in the tabernacle. It teaches us the importance of depending on God, prioritising spiritual responsibilities, finding contentment in Him, and recognising the priesthood of all believers.
