Numbers 18:19 Meaning and Explanation
“All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the LORD, have I given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee, by a statute for ever: it is a covenant of salt for ever before the LORD unto thee and to thy seed with thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God grants the priesthood all heave offerings by eternal covenant, sealed as a 'covenant of salt.'
The Context of Numbers 18:19
All heave offerings are granted to Aaron's line by eternal covenant.
What Does Numbers 18:19 Mean?
This verse summarizes and seals all previous provisions: Aaron's family—sons and daughters together—receive all heave offerings in perpetuity. This is not a temporary arrangement or a revocable gift but a 'statute for ever,' binding on all future generations of Aaron's line.
The phrase 'covenant of salt' invokes an ancient image of permanence and binding agreement. Salt was used in covenants to symbolize an unbreakable bond that preserves and endures. God is not merely promising but formally covenanting with Aaron that his descendants will always receive these offerings.
Numbers 18:19 in the Original Language
covenant of salt (בְרִית מְלַח) — an unbreakable covenant, symbolized by salt's preserving and binding properties, indicating permanence and inviolability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 18:19
What does Numbers 18:19 mean?
God grants the priesthood all heave offerings by eternal covenant, sealed as a 'covenant of salt.'
What is the context of Numbers 18:19?
All heave offerings are granted to Aaron's line by eternal covenant.