Onely vnto the tribe of Leui hee gaue none inheritance: the sacrifices of the Lord God of Israel made by fire, are their inheritance, as he said vnto them. Joshua 13:14 (KJV)
“Now give the inheritance to the children of Levi, even the cities which the LORD your God has commanded you to give them.” This verse belongs to the larger narrative of the division of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel. Joshua, succeeding Moses, was charged with apportioning the land according to the Lord’s command.
The Inheritance of the Tribes: The Lord instructed Joshua to distribute the land of Canaan as an inheritance to the Israelites. The tribe of Levi, however, was set apart for service in the tabernacle and priesthood and therefore did not receive a territorial allotment like the other tribes.
The Special Inheritance of the Levites: Joshua 13:14 records that the Levites’ inheritance was the sacrifices of the LORD made by fire. In practice this meant that the Levites were supported by the portions of the offerings brought by the other tribes, including the meat from burnt sacrifices. In addition, the Lord commanded that the Levites be given specific cities, pastures, and the tithes and offerings of the people, providing them with sustenance while they performed their priestly duties at the tabernacle and later the temple.
The Devotion of the Levites: Their exclusion from a tribal land inheritance highlighted their exclusive dedication to God’s service. The Levites taught the law, led worship, and maintained the spiritual well‑being of the nation. Their inheritance was not material wealth but the privilege of serving the Lord directly and representing Him before the people.
Application to Believers: Though the passage addresses an ancient distribution of land, it offers timeless principles. It reminds believers to devote themselves fully to God’s service, recognizing that our greatest inheritance is the privilege of knowing and serving Him. God’s provision may come in unexpected forms; just as the Levites were cared for through cities and offerings rather than land, believers can trust that God provides what is best for them, even when it differs from their expectations.
In summary, Joshua 13:14 underscores the unique inheritance of the Levites—service, sacrificial provision, and designated cities—calling all believers to a life of dedicated service and trust in God’s faithful provision.
