Numbers 18:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 18:20
20 And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.
Chapter Context
Numbers 18 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, sacrifice, obedience. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 18:20
20 And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.
Analysis
God tells Aaron: 'Thou shalt have no inheritance in their land, neither shalt thou have any part among them: I am thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.' The Hebrew 'cheleq' (part/portion) and 'nachalah' (inheritance) emphasize that while other tribes received land, priests received God Himself. This principle declares that those devoted entirely to God's service have God as their supreme reward - a relationship more valuable than material wealth. David echoes this: 'The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance' (Ps 16:5). This foreshadows believers' ultimate inheritance - knowing God in Christ (Phil 3:8) - and ministers' contentment in spiritual rewards (1 Pet 5:2-4).
Historical Context
Priests and Levites received no tribal territory like other Israelites, instead receiving forty-eight cities scattered among tribes (Num 35:1-8) and tithes from Israel's produce (Num 18:21-32). This distribution prevented priestly power consolidation while ensuring their presence among all tribes for teaching and worship leadership. Their dependence on others' tithes required faith and reminded them that ministry is serving God, not accumulating wealth. After the exile, neglect of Levitical support caused temple service to suffer (Neh 13:10-12), showing the importance of supporting God's ministers.
Reflection
- If you lost all material possessions, would God alone satisfy you as your inheritance?
- How does viewing God as your supreme portion affect your relationship with money and possessions?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 10:9, 12:12, Joshua 13:33, Psalms 16:5, 142:5, Lamentations 3:24
- References Israel: Ezekiel 44:28
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 14:27, Joshua 14:3, Revelation 21:3