1 Chronicles 6:60

And out of the tribe of Benjamin; Geba with her suburbs, and Alemeth with her suburbs, and Anathoth with her suburbs. All their cities throughout their families were thirteen cities.

1 Chronicles 6:60 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a larger record in 1 Chronicles 6 that lists the cities given to the Levites, the tribe set apart for service in the tabernacle and later the temple. Unlike other tribes, the Levites received no single territory. Instead, they lived in cities scattered across Israel, with surrounding pasturelands for their livestock and crops. This arrangement allowed them to focus on worship and sacred duties without the burden of managing a large inheritance.

Meaning

The verse names three cities from Benjamin: Geba, Alemeth, and Anathoth, each with its suburbs. These suburbs were open lands for grazing and farming, sustaining the Levites and their families. The total of thirteen cities shows a careful, orderly distribution. The specific names also confirm the historical reality of this allocation, showing that God’s provision was concrete and practical.

Biblical connections

This list parallels Joshua 21, confirming the same allocation and showing consistency in the biblical record. Anathoth later became the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:1), linking this practical record to Israel’s prophetic history. The Levites depended on the generosity of other tribes, reflecting mutual support within God’s people. This cooperation among the tribes illustrates unity in fulfilling God’s commands.

Application

God provided for those who served Him, giving them homes and resources to carry out their duties. This teaches us to support those dedicated to spiritual service and to trust that God cares for the practical needs of His servants. We can also learn to value the work of those who minister among us, offering our own resources to help them serve well.

Reflection

Though this verse seems like a list of places, it reveals God’s faithfulness. He kept His promises to the Levites and to Israel. The detailed record reminds us that God values order and cares for every part of His people’s lives. Even the smallest details of provision are noted in His Word, encouraging us to trust Him with our own needs.