1 Chronicles 6:72
“and out of the tribe of Issachar, Kedesh with its suburbs, Daberath with its suburbs,”
What does 1 Chronicles 6:72 mean?
This verse is part of a detailed list of cities given to the Levites (the priestly tribe) across Israel's territories. The Levites didn't receive one large inheritance like the other tribes, but instead were scattered throughout the land in designated towns, which allowed them to serve communities everywhere while depending on others for support. Kedesh and Daberath were specific cities in the northern territory of Issachar where Levites lived and worked. Each city came with surrounding pastureland ("suburbs") so the Levites could graze their animals and sustain themselves. While these genealogies and city lists might seem dry to modern readers, they represented God's practical provision for those set apart for religious service, ensuring they were woven into the fabric of daily life across the nation rather than isolated in one place.