Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 6:81 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 6:81 lists two towns, Heshbon and Jazer, along with their surrounding lands ("suburbs"), as part of the land given to the Levites. This verse is part of a record showing which cities and lands were set aside for the Levite families to live in and use. The book of 1 Chronicles is recounting how the land of Israel was divided among the tribes, with this chapter focusing on the Levites, who served in religious duties. The verse is not a narrative but a list, naming specific places that were allotted to the Levites from the territory of the other tribes, showing the practical arrangements for their support.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 6:81

Accepted Answer

חֶשְׁבּוֹן (Ḥeshbōn): This is the name of a significant city east of the Jordan River, often mentioned in connection with the territory of Reuben or Gad. Its inclusion here shows the Levites were given towns from various tribal lands. יַעְזֵר (Yaʿzēr): Another town east of the Jordan, known for its fertile land. The mention of Jazer highlights the practical needs of the Levites for places to live and farm. מִגְרָשׁ (migrāsh): Translated as "suburbs," this word refers to the open land or pastureland around a city. This detail matters because it shows the Levites were not just given houses, but also land to support themselves and their animals.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 6:81 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the Levites, who did not receive a tribal territory of their own, were provided for by being given specific towns and the surrounding land within other tribes' territories. The mention of "suburbs" (migrāsh) emphasizes that the Levites' needs included both places to live and land for their daily life, not just ceremonial duties. By listing these towns, the passage connects the Levites' support directly to the wider organization of Israel, showing how every tribe contributed to the care of those serving in religious roles.

1 Chronicles 6:81 (KJV)