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The lot came out for the families of the Kohathites: and the children of Aaron the priest, who were of the Levites, had by lot out of the tribe of Judah, and out of the tribe of the Simeonites, and out of the tribe of Benjamin, thirteen cities.

Verse Takeaways

1

Providence in the Priests' Portion

Multiple commentators emphasize that the outcome of the lot was not random but an act of God's providence. Scholars like Calvin and Gill highlight that God wisely placed the priests' cities within the tribes of Judah, Simeon, and Benjamin, strategically positioning them near Jerusalem, the future site of the Temple. This demonstrates God's sovereign, long-term planning for Israel's worship.

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Book Overview

Joshua

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Commentaries

5

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Joshua 21:4

18th Century

Theologian

Thirteen cities - This number is said to be too great for the single family of Aaron. But it appears (1 Chronicles 24:0) that th…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Joshua 21:4–8

19th Century

Bishop

The order of the distribution—namely, (1) to priests, (2) to Kohathites, (3) to Gershonites, (4) to Merarites—is in strict agreement with the order…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Joshua 21:4

16th Century

Theologian

And the lot came out for the families...

  1. The number of cities is described, which we will discuss later.
  2. It is clear…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Joshua 21:4

17th Century

Pastor

And the lot came out for the family of the Kohathites
The first lot that was drawn out of the pot or urn was for the…

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Joshua 21:1–8

17th Century

Minister

The Levites waited until the other tribes were provided for, before they presented their claim to Joshua. They build their claim upon a very good f…