Numbers 35:8

Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)

'n Groot stam moet meer stede vir die Leviete gee en 'n kleiner stam moet minder stede vir hulle gee.”

What Does This Mean?

This verse explains how the Levites, who were given no land of their own, would receive cities from the other tribes of Israel. The number of cities given would be based on how much land each tribe possessed. The larger tribes would give more cities, and the smaller tribes would give fewer.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a big box of crayons and your friend has a small box. If you needed to share some crayons with another friend who doesn't have any, you would give more crayons from your big box, and your friend would give fewer from their small box. This is what's happening with the cities given to the Levites.

Historical Background

The Book of Numbers was written by Moses around 1400 BCE. It was part of the instructions for the Israelites as they prepared to enter and settle in the Promised Land. The context involves the distribution of land among the tribes, with special provisions for the Levites, who served in the tabernacle and did not have land of their own.

Living It Out Today

In a modern scenario, this verse can be applied to how resources are shared in a community. Larger businesses or organizations might contribute more to community projects or charitable causes, while smaller ones might contribute less, but still give proportionally to what they have.

Topics

• sharing
• justice
• community
• provision
• fairness
• service

Related Verses

• Joshua 21:7
• Deuteronomy 18:1-2
• Joshua 21:1-4
• Numbers 18:20
• Ezekiel 45:3-5

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Levites not receive any land?

The Levites were given the responsibility of serving in the tabernacle and did not have the same agricultural duties as the other tribes. Therefore, they were provided with cities instead of land for farming.

How did the number of cities each tribe gave to the Levites determine?

The number of cities given was based on the size of each tribe's inheritance. Larger tribes with more land provided more cities, while smaller tribes with less land provided fewer cities.

What can we learn about fairness from this verse?

This verse teaches us about fairness and proportional giving. It shows that contributions should be based on what one has, ensuring that everyone contributes according to their means.

How does this verse relate to community service today?

This verse can be applied to community service by showing that those with more resources should contribute more to communal needs, while those with fewer resources contribute what they can, reflecting a sense of communal responsibility.