And ye shall measure from without the city on the east side two thousand cubits, and on the south side two thousand cubits, and on the west side two thousand cubits, and on the north side two thousand cubits; and the city shall be in the midst: this shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.
You shall measure out from the edge of the city two thousand cubits in every direction—east, south, west, and north—with the city in the center. This area will serve as the pasturelands for the cities.
God is giving specific instructions for measuring out grazing land around the Levitical cities, ensuring each city has adequate space for livestock and daily needs.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of God's instructions for establishing cities for the Levites, the priestly tribe who didn't receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. These cities with their surrounding pasturelands would be distributed throughout Israel's territory. The measurement of 2,000 cubits (roughly 3,000 feet) in each direction provided sufficient grazing land for the Levites' cattle and flocks.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.