“And the children of Gershon had by lot out of the families of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the half tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, thirteen cities.”
Context: Joshua 21 records the allocation of cities to the Levites, who were appointed as priests and caretakers of the tabernacle. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in throughout the territories of the other tribes. Joshua 21:6 specifically mentions the allocation of cities to the children of Gershon, who were one of the Levitical clans.
The children of Gershon: Gershon was the eldest son of Levi, the third son of Jacob. The Gershonites were one of the three main Levitical families, along with the Kohathites and the Merarites. The Gershonites were responsible for the transportation and care of the tabernacle’s curtains, coverings, and other related items.
Allocation of cities: The verse states that the children of Gershon received cities from various tribes: Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan. Thirteen cities were allotted to them. These cities were intended to provide dwelling places for the Gershonite Levites and their families as they served in their priestly duties.
Symbolic significance: The allocation of cities to the Levites reflects God’s provision for the spiritual needs of His people. The Levites were set apart for service to God and His people, and their placement throughout the territories of the other tribes ensured that there would be a priestly presence and spiritual guidance accessible to all Israelites.
God’s faithfulness and fulfillment of promises: The distribution of cities to the Levites, including the children of Gershon, fulfilled God’s earlier promise to the Israelites regarding the inheritance of the Levites. In Numbers 35:2-3, God commanded the Israelites to give cities to the Levites from their own inheritances. The allocation of cities in Joshua 21 shows God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.
Lessons for us today: Joshua 21:6 reminds us of the importance of providing spiritual leadership and support within the community of believers. It highlights the significance of setting apart individuals for specific roles and ministries within the church. Just as the Levites were given cities to dwell in and carry out their priestly responsibilities, God calls His people today to be actively involved in ministry and service to one another, using their spiritual gifts for the edification of the body of Christ.
In conclusion, Joshua 21:6 describes the allocation of cities to the children of Gershon, one of the Levitical clans. This verse underscores God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and ministry within the community of believers.
