And the Lord spake vnto Moses, saying, Numbers 18:25 (KJV)
This verse functions as an introduction to the subsequent instructions that the LORD gives to Moses. To grasp its meaning fully, we must look at the surrounding passage, Numbers 18:26‑29 (KJV):
“And speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe. And this your heave offering shall be reckoned unto you, as though it were the corn of the threshingfloor, and as the fulness of the winepress. Thus ye also shall offer an heave offering unto the LORD of all your tithes, which ye receive of the children of Israel; and ye shall give thereof the LORD’s heave offering to Aaron the priest.”
In these verses God commands Moses to address the Levites, the tribe set apart to serve in the tabernacle and assist the priests. The Levites were entrusted with collecting the tithes—a tenth of the people’s produce and livestock—which served as their inheritance while they performed their sacred duties.
Verse 26 highlights the Levites’ responsibility to present a heave offering to the LORD from the tithes they receive. A heave offering was a portion set apart and lifted up to God; here the Levites were to give a tenth part of each tithe as that offering.
Verse 27 explains that this heave offering would be regarded as if it were the corn of the threshing floor and the fullness of the winepress—essentially the best of the harvest or the finest wine—underscoring its sanctity and value.
Verse 28 adds that the Levites must give their own heave offering from all the tithes they collect and then deliver the LORD’s heave offering to Aaron the priest, the head of the priestly tribe.
Verse 29 reiterates that every heave offering, including the best and hallowed portions of the tithes, is to be offered to the LORD from all the gifts received.
Overall, the passage provides detailed instruction on tithes and heave offerings, emphasizing the importance of dedicating the finest portions of one’s resources to God. While Christians are not bound by the Mosaic Law in the same way, these verses still teach timeless principles: honor God with what He has given you, give your best in worship, and recognize the sacred purpose of our offerings.
