And the flesh of them shall bee thine: as the waue breast, and as the right shoulder are thine. Numbers 18:18 (KJV)
Numbers 18 records the specific instructions given to the tribe of Levi, and especially to Aaron and his sons, who were appointed as priests. The chapter outlines both the responsibilities and the privileges of the Levitical priesthood and explains how the other Israelites were to support them in their service of the tabernacle.
In verse 18 God tells Aaron that certain portions of the offerings brought to the Lord are to be his and his sons’ share. These portions are identified as the wave breast and the right shoulder, which some translations refer to as the heave shoulder. The wording in the two drafts varies slightly, but both convey that these specific parts of the peace offerings belong to the priestly family.
The wave breast and the right (or heave) shoulder were parts of the peace offering that were literally waved before the Lord as a sign of consecration. By presenting these pieces in this manner the Israelites acknowledged that the offering belonged to God and that He authorized the priests to receive them. This act symbolised both God’s ownership of the sacrifice and the priestly authority to partake of the designated portions.
The passage also highlights a broader principle of support. The Levites were set apart for continual service in the tabernacle—offering sacrifices, tending the sanctuary, and performing other duties. In return, God provided for their material needs by assigning them a share of the people’s offerings. This reflects God’s concern for the physical well‑being of those engaged in His work.
For believers today the text carries a timeless application. It teaches the importance of supporting those who serve in ministry and of dedicating a portion of our resources to the Lord’s work. Honouring God through our giving acknowledges the authority and provision He establishes for His servants.
In summary, Numbers 18:18 emphasizes God’s provision for the priesthood by assigning the wave breast and right shoulder to Aaron and his sons. It underscores the principle that those who labor in God’s service are to be cared for, and it calls modern believers to reflect that same spirit of generous support for ministry.
