Joshua 21:18
“Anathoth with its suburbs, and Almon with its suburbs: four cities.”
What does Joshua 21:18 mean?
These were two towns given to the priests of the Levite clan descended from Aaron. The Levites didn't receive one large territory like the other tribes did, so instead they were scattered throughout Israel in designated cities where they could serve in local communities and be supported by the people around them. Anathoth would later become famous as the birthplace of the prophet Jeremiah, showing how these priestly towns became centers of spiritual leadership. The mention of "suburbs" refers to the pastureland surrounding each city where the priests could graze their livestock and support themselves.