they gave them
This phrase refers to the allocation of cities to the Levites, the priestly tribe, who did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes. Instead, they were given specific cities within the territories of other tribes. This distribution allowed the Levites to perform their religious duties and teach the Law throughout Israel. The giving of cities to the Levites fulfilled God's command to provide for the tribe that served in the temple and facilitated worship.

Gibeon
Gibeon was a significant city in the territory of Benjamin, known for its strategic location and historical events. It was the site of the famous battle where Joshua commanded the sun to stand still (Joshua 10:12-14). The Gibeonites, who inhabited the city, had previously deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them (Joshua 9). Gibeon later became a Levitical city, emphasizing its importance in religious and cultural contexts. Archaeological findings suggest Gibeon was a well-fortified city with a large water system, indicating its significance in the region.

Geba
Geba was another city within the territory of Benjamin, located near Gibeah and Michmash. It served as a Levitical city, providing a place for the Levites to live and minister. Geba is mentioned in several biblical accounts, including the narrative of Jonathan's victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:5). Its location on the border of Benjamin's territory made it a strategic military site. The city's inclusion as a Levitical city highlights the integration of religious and military aspects in Israel's history.

• Joshua 21 shows the literal fulfillment of Numbers 35:1-8, where the LORD required every tribe to set aside towns for the Levites; here, Benjamin obediently does its part.

• The placement of Levitical cities in every tribal territory ensured that teaching (Deuteronomy 33:10) and arbitration (Deuteronomy 17:8-9) were available to the whole nation, anticipating the New Testament pattern of every believer having ready access to God’s word (Acts 2:41-42).

• Benjamin’s willingness to give land affirms God’s covenant faithfulness—He had promised an inheritance to His priestly tribe (Deuteronomy 18:1-2), and now, through Benjamin, He literally provides it.

• Cross references: Joshua 18:21-28 lists Benjamin’s borders; 1 Chronicles 6:55-60 repeats this allotment, underscoring its historic reliability.

• “They gave them Gibeon, Gepa…” (Joshua 21:17). Gibeon, once the city that deceived Israel (Joshua 9), is now graciously set apart for ministry—an early picture of how God can redeem past failure and bring blessing from it (Romans 8:28).

• Gibeon later becomes a place of worship where the tabernacle and altar are located (1 Chronicles 16:39; 1 Kings 3:4-5). Housing Levites there guarantees right teaching and sacrificial service at that center.

• The sun once “stood still over Gibeon” (Joshua 10:12-13); placing Levites in this historically miraculous site reminds Israel of God’s power and encourages future generations to trust Him.

• Cross references: 2 Samuel 21:1-6 (Gibeon’s covenant consequences); Nehemiah 3:7 (Gibeonites rebuilding the wall).

• Geba sits near the Benjamin–Judah border, strategically overlooking main north-south routes (1 Kings 15:22). Making it a Levitical town places godly influence at a critical gateway, much like believers are called to be “a city on a hill” (Matthew 5:14-16).

• The town later appears in military narratives (1 Samuel 13:3; Isaiah 10:29), yet its Levitical identity reminds Israel that spiritual strength, not military might, is its true defense (Psalm 20:7).

• By giving both Gibeon and Geba, Benjamin provides for ministry in both a worship center and a strategic outpost, fulfilling the LORD’s balanced design (Numbers 35:5).

• Cross references: 2 Kings 23:8 (reform at Geba); Zechariah 14:10 (Geba as a northern boundary marker).

Joshua 21:17 records a literal, historic transaction: Benjamin hands over two of its towns to the Levites. In doing so, the tribe honors God’s command, spreads spiritual influence across the land, and testifies to the LORD’s faithfulness. Gibeon’s inclusion showcases grace that transforms a once-suspect city into a hub of worship, while Geba’s placement guards vital territory with godly presence. The verse reminds readers that every piece of land, every city, and every believer’s gift can be consecrated to God’s service when we obey His word.

Parallel Commentaries ...