Old Testament
Joshua 21:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
From the tribe of Benjamin they received Gibeon with its pasturelands, Geba with its pasturelands,
Compare translations
And out of the tribe of Benjamin, Gibeon with her suburbs, Geba with her suburbs,
What Joshua 21:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 21:17, the verse highlights the allocation of cities to the Levites from the tribe of Benjamin. Gibeon and Geba are specifically mentioned, along with their surrounding pasturelands. This allocation is part of a larger distribution of cities among the Levite clans, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. The mention of pasturelands indicates that these cities were not just urban centers but also had agricultural significance, providing resources for the Levites. This reflects the importance of community support for the priestly class, ensuring they had the means to sustain themselves while serving God and the people. The verse emphasizes the organized structure of Israelite society and the divine provision for those dedicated to spiritual leadership.
How to apply Joshua 21:17 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of supporting those in spiritual leadership within our communities. Just as the Levites were provided for, we should ensure that our leaders have the resources they need to fulfill their roles effectively. This can be through encouragement, financial support, or practical help.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 21:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 21:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What cities were given to the Levites from the tribe of Benjamin?
In Joshua 21:17, the cities allocated to the Levites from the tribe of Benjamin are Gibeon and Geba. These cities were part of a larger distribution of cities among the Levite clans, who were set apart for their religious duties.
Why are pasturelands mentioned in Joshua 21:17?
The mention of pasturelands in Joshua 21:17 indicates that the cities of Gibeon and Geba were not only urban centers but also had agricultural significance. This provision of pasturelands was essential for the Levites, allowing them to sustain themselves while they focused on their spiritual responsibilities.
What is the significance of the Levites not receiving land like other tribes?
The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel because their role was dedicated to religious service. This arrangement emphasized their unique position in Israelite society, relying on the support of the community for their needs, which is reflected in the allocation of cities and pasturelands.
How does Joshua 21:17 relate to community support for leaders today?
Joshua 21:17 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting spiritual leaders in our communities. Just as the Levites were provided for through the allocation of cities and resources, we should ensure that our leaders have the necessary support—whether through encouragement, financial assistance, or practical help—to fulfill their roles effectively.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.