Deuteronomy 18:8

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

وَسَتَكُونُ لَهُمْ حِصَصٌ مُتَسَاوِيَةٌ مِنَ الطَّعَامِ بِالإضَافَةِ إلَى مَا يَحْصُلُونَ عَلَيْهِ مِنْ مِيرَاثِ آبَائِهِمْ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse talks about the share of food and property that the Levites should receive. The Levites, who are responsible for religious duties, should get the same portion of food as others, plus any income from their inherited land.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who is in charge of helping everyone learn about God at school. This verse says that just like you get a sandwich for lunch, your friend also gets a sandwich. Plus, if your friend has a lemonade stand, they can keep the money from selling lemonade too!

Historical Background

Moses is speaking to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land, around 1200 BCE. He is laying out laws and guidelines for their society, including how the Levites should be cared for.

Living It Out Today

In a modern context, this verse can apply to how we support those in religious or community service roles. For example, a church should ensure that its pastor or minister is well-compensated, both in terms of salary and benefits, so they can focus on their duties without financial stress.

Topics

• support
• service
• justice
• community
• provision
• religious duty

Related Verses

• Numbers 18:20
• 1 Timothy 5:17
• 1 Corinthians 9:13
• 1 Corinthians 9:14
• Ezekiel 44:28

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the Levites?

The Levites were a tribe of Israelites chosen to perform religious duties, including serving as priests and assisting in the temple.

How did Levites receive their portions?

Levites were to receive a portion of the offerings and tithes from the people, as well as any income from their inherited land, to ensure they were provided for while serving religious duties.

What does this verse say about the responsibility of the community?

It suggests that the community has a responsibility to support those in service roles, ensuring they have enough to live on so they can focus on their duties.

How is this verse relevant in modern church settings?

It is relevant in ensuring that clergy and other religious workers are adequately compensated and supported, so they can effectively serve their communities without financial strain.