1 Chronicles 6:63 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 6:63 mean?

1 Chronicles 6:63 states that the descendants of Merari, one of the Levitical families, were assigned twelve cities by drawing lots from the territories of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Zebulun. This verse records the distribution of specific towns to the Merarite Levites as part of their role and inheritance among the Israelites.

The context is a historical listing of how the Levites—Israel’s priestly tribe—were given cities to live in, since they did not receive a separate territory like the other tribes. The chronicler is detailing how these cities were allocated fairly, by "lot," to the sons of Merari, ensuring each Levitical family had places to dwell and serve throughout Israel.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:63

• "Merari" (מְרָרִי, Merari): This is the name of one of Levi’s sons, whose descendants formed one of the main Levitical clans. Their specific mention highlights the careful division of responsibilities and provisions among the Levites.
• "lot" (גּוֹרָל, goral): This word refers to the practice of casting lots, a method used in ancient Israel to make decisions impartially, seen as guided by God. It emphasizes that the assignment of cities was not based on human preference but on a divinely guided process.
• "families" (מִשְׁפָּחוֹת, mishpachot): This term points to the extended family groups within the tribe, showing that the distribution was organized down to the family level, not just the tribe as a whole.
• "twelve" (שְׁנֵים עָשָׂר, shenayim asar): The specific number of cities given, underlining the careful and equitable division among the Merarite Levites.

Why 1 Chronicles 6:63 matters

• This verse clarifies that the Levites, though landless as a tribe, were not left without homes; they were provided for by the other tribes, reinforcing the unity and mutual support among the Israelites.
• The use of "lot" shows the importance of fairness and divine guidance in distributing resources, a principle valued in Israelite society.
• By naming the specific tribes (Reuben, Gad, Zebulun) and the number of cities, the verse connects the Merarite Levites to the broader story of Israel’s settlement, showing how every group had a place and a role.