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Numbers 18:21

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Look, I have given the tribe of Levi all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance, in return for their work serving in the tabernacle of meeting.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

God is telling the Levites that instead of receiving land like the other tribes, they will be supported by the tithes (ten percent offerings) that all Israelites bring, because their job is to serve God full-time in the tabernacle.

📚 Historical Context

The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, but unlike the other tribes, they did not receive a territorial inheritance when Israel settled in the Promised Land. Instead, God designated them as the priestly tribe responsible for maintaining and serving in the tabernacle (and later the temple). Since they couldn't farm or engage in regular occupations due to their religious duties, God established that they would be supported by the tithes brought by the other eleven tribes.

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