Old Testament
Joshua 21:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The Gershonite families had a total of thirteen cities with their surrounding lands.
Compare translations
All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their suburbs.
What Joshua 21:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the allocation of cities to the Gershonite families, one of the Levitical clans. The Gershonites received a total of thirteen cities, which were designated for their use along with the surrounding lands. This distribution was part of the larger plan for the Israelites to settle in the Promised Land, ensuring that the Levites, who were responsible for religious duties, had places to live and serve. The mention of 'suburbs' indicates that these cities were not isolated but had additional land for farming and grazing, which was essential for their sustenance. This allocation reflects God's provision for His people, ensuring that even those dedicated to spiritual service were cared for materially. The organization of the land among the tribes and families highlights the importance of community and support within the Israelite society, as each group had a specific role and place within the larger framework of the nation.
How to apply Joshua 21:33 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of community and support systems in our lives. Just as the Gershonites were provided for, we should seek to care for those who serve in spiritual capacities today. Supporting our leaders and community members fosters a healthy environment for growth and service.
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 21:33
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 21:33
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 does Joshua 21:33 mean?
Joshua 21:33 describes the allocation of thirteen cities to the Gershonite families, one of the Levitical clans. This distribution ensured that the Levites had places to live and serve, highlighting God's provision for their needs.
What is the significance of the Gershonites in Joshua 21:33?
The Gershonites were one of the Levitical families responsible for certain religious duties. Their allocation of cities reflects the importance of providing for those dedicated to spiritual service within the Israelite community.
What does 'suburbs' refer to in Joshua 21:33?
In Joshua 21:33, 'suburbs' refers to the surrounding lands associated with the cities given to the Gershonites. This additional land was important for farming and grazing, supporting the Gershonites' sustenance.
How does Joshua 21:33 relate to community support?
Joshua 21:33 illustrates the concept of community support by showing how the Gershonites were provided with cities and land. This allocation emphasizes the importance of caring for those who serve in spiritual roles within a community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.