Numbers 18

Numbers 18:1

G. Instructions to the Levites (Chaps. 18, 19)18:1-7 Chapter 18 is closely linked to the last two verses of the preceding chapter. In order to allay the fears of the people, the Lord repeated the instructions about service at the tabernacle. If these instructions were obeyed, there need be no fear of His wrath. Verse 1 is in two parts. “You and your sons and your father’s house with you” refers to all the Levites, including the priests. “You and your sons” refers to the priests alone. The former bore the iniquity related to the sanctuary; the latter bore the iniquity associated with their priesthood.

To “bear the iniquity” means to be responsible for any neglect or failure to comply with sacred duties. The Levites were assistants to the priests but were not to enter the tabernacle on priestly service . . . lest they die. 18:8-20 The priests were permitted a certain portion of various offerings as compensation (vv. 8-11). They were also entitled to the firstfruits of oil, wine, grain, and fruit (vv. 12, 13), to things devoted to the LORD (v. 14), and to the firstborn. In the case of firstborn sons and unclean animals, the priests received the redemption money in place of the sons or animals. In the case of sacrificial animals, the firstborn was sacrificed to the LORD, and the priests received their portion (vv. 17-19). A covenant of salt (v. 19) means one that is inviolable and permanent. The priests did not receive any land because the Lord was to be their special portion and inheritance (v. 20). 18:21-32 The Levites received tithes from the people, but they in turn were responsible to give a tenth to the priests. This tenth was offered as a heave offering . . . to the LORD.