Deuteronomy 18:4 Meaning and Explanation
“The firstfruit also of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the first of the fleece of thy sheep, shalt thou give him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Levites also receive firstfruits and first shearings from the harvest and flocks.
The Context of Deuteronomy 18:4
Firstfruits offerings extended Levite support beyond sacrifices to agricultural abundance.
What Does Deuteronomy 18:4 Mean?
Beyond sacrificial portions, the Levites received the firstfruits of the soil—the first grain, wine, and oil from each harvest. They also received the first wool from sheep shearing.
These offerings recognized God's primacy. By giving the firstfruits to those who served God, Israel acknowledged that all blessing came from His hand and that His service deserved the best and the earliest.
Deuteronomy 18:4 in the Original Language
reshith (רֵאשִׁית), 'firstfruit' — the initial or choicest portion of a harvest, given to express dependence on and gratitude to God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 18:4
What does Deuteronomy 18:4 mean?
The Levites also receive firstfruits and first shearings from the harvest and flocks.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 18:4?
Firstfruits offerings extended Levite support beyond sacrifices to agricultural abundance.