1 Chronicles 6:67 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 6:67 mean?

1 Chronicles 6:67 states that certain cities, specifically Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and Gezer, along with their surrounding lands (called "suburbs"), were given to a group as part of the cities of refuge. These cities were set aside for special use, likely for the Levites, according to the context of this chapter.

This verse is part of a list where the chronicler records which towns were allocated to the Levites, the tribe set apart for religious duties in ancient Israel. The mention of "cities of refuge" refers to designated places where someone who accidentally killed another person could flee for safety. The passage shows how the land was distributed among the tribes and highlights the practical arrangements for both justice and religious service.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:67

• "gave" (נָתַן, natan): This word means to give or assign. Here, it shows that these cities were officially handed over, not just casually mentioned.
• "cities" (עִיר, ir): This word means city or town. The focus is on established, inhabited places, not just empty land.
• "refuge" (מִקְלָט, miqlat): This word means a place of shelter or protection. Calling Shechem a city of refuge highlights its special legal and social role in Israelite society.
• "suburbs" (מִגְרָשׁ, migrash): This refers to the open land around a city, used for grazing or other community needs. Including the suburbs meant the Levites received both the city itself and the land needed to support their families and livestock.

Why 1 Chronicles 6:67 matters

• This verse clarifies that the Levites were given not just cities, but also the surrounding land, ensuring their ability to live and serve among the people.
• By naming Shechem as a city of refuge, the verse connects the Levites’ role to the wider system of justice and mercy in Israel.
• The careful listing of cities and their locations helps trace the practical organization of Israel’s tribes and shows the chronicler’s concern for historical accuracy and fairness in land distribution.