Deuteronomy 14:27 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 14:27 mean?

Deuteronomy 14:27 instructs the Israelites not to neglect the Levite living among them, because the Levites do not have their own share of land or inheritance like the other tribes. This verse calls for the community to include and care for the Levites, who depend on the support of others.

Moses is speaking to the people of Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Levites were set apart for religious duties and did not receive territory like the other tribes. The verse comes in a section about tithes and offerings, emphasizing that the Levites should be remembered and provided for, since their service to God means they rely on the generosity of the rest of the community.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 14:27

• לֵוִי (levi, "Levite"): This word refers specifically to members of the tribe of Levi, who were assigned religious and priestly roles. Their unique status explains why they needed support from others.
• שַׁעַר (sha'ar, "gates"): The word for "gates" often represents a town or city, highlighting that Levites lived throughout Israel, not just at the central sanctuary.
• עָזַב (azav, "forsake"): This verb means to leave behind or neglect. The command is not just about physical needs, but also about not forgetting or excluding the Levites from community life.
• חֵלֶק (cheleq, "part"): This word means a share or portion, pointing out that Levites do not get a portion of land as the other tribes do.
• נַחֲלָה (nachalah, "inheritance"): This term refers to a permanent possession, especially land. The Levites’ lack of inheritance underlines their dependence on the rest of Israel.

Why Deuteronomy 14:27 matters

• Deuteronomy 14:27 clarifies that spiritual leaders in Israel were not self-sufficient landowners, but relied on the community’s care, correcting any idea that they were privileged in the same way as other tribes.
• The verse highlights the importance of not overlooking those who serve in religious roles, especially when they lack the material security others have.
• This instruction fits into a broader theme in Deuteronomy of social responsibility, reminding Israel to care for all members of their society, especially the vulnerable or those set apart for special service.