What was Rimmono?
Rimmono (Hebrew: רִמּוֹנוֹ, Rimmono, meaning “pomegranate”) was a Levitical city located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun. It is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 6:77, where it is identified as one of the towns given to the descendants of Merari, one of the three main Levitical clans. Rimmono is likely the same location referred to elsewhere as Rimmon (Joshua 19:13; Joshua 21:34-35), which appears to be a shortened version of the same name.
Rimmono was part of the system of cities that were designated for the Levites, who had no inheritance of land like the other tribes of Israel. These cities served as places where Levites lived and served in roles of religious instruction, worship, and support for the spiritual life of the nation.
Biblical References
- 1 Chronicles 6:77 – “The Merarites were given: from the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam, Kartah, Rimmono and Tabor, together with their pasturelands.”
- Joshua 19:13 – Rimmon appears among the towns of Zebulun’s inheritance.
- Joshua 21:34-35 – Lists Rimmon among the towns given to the Merarite Levites from the tribe of Zebulun.
Cross-references to other Levitical towns:
- Numbers 35:1-8 – God’s command to give cities to the Levites.
- Deuteronomy 18:1-8 – The Levites’ unique role and provision.
- 1 Chronicles 6 – Overview of Levitical genealogies and their cities.
Historical and Biblical Context
The city of Rimmono was part of the broader distribution of land and cities that God commanded Israel to provide for the Levites. Since the Levites were tasked with spiritual leadership, teaching the law, and assisting in temple worship, they were dispersed among the tribes to influence the people spiritually and to maintain access to godly instruction throughout the nation.
Rimmono, as a city given to the Merarite branch of the Levites, would have housed Levites responsible for roles such as gatekeeping and caretaking of the tabernacle (and later, aspects of the temple service). These cities were to include pasturelands so the Levites could sustain themselves and remain focused on their sacred calling.
Theological Significance
God’s Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities like Rimmono to the Levites shows God’s care and provision for those He calls into full-time ministry. Though the Levites did not inherit tribal land, God ensured they had a place to live and work. This pattern reinforces the principle that God sustains those who serve Him, both spiritually and materially.
The Role of Worship in Israel
The Levites’ presence in towns such as Rimmono underscored the centrality of worship and the Word of God in everyday life. Rather than being confined to Jerusalem or the tabernacle, the influence of God’s law extended into every tribe and region through these Levitical cities.
How Rimmono Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The Levites foreshadow the work of Christ in several ways. Just as they were set apart to teach the people and intercede on their behalf, Jesus is our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16), the One who forever intercedes for us. Rimmono, as a place where the Levites lived and ministered, reminds us of how God placed His ministers among His people, a picture ultimately fulfilled in Jesus dwelling among us (John 1:14).
Furthermore, the system of Levitical cities prefigures the body of Christ today. Every believer, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, is a “temple” (1 Corinthians 6:19) and part of the church, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), continuing the work of teaching, worship, and intercession in the world.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Holiness and Separation
Rimmono, as a Levitical city, reflects the theme of holiness—being set apart for God’s purposes. It teaches that God’s people are to live distinct lives, rooted in obedience to His Word.
2. Spiritual Influence and Accessibility
The dispersion of Levites through cities like Rimmono ensured that spiritual knowledge was accessible throughout Israel, not just centralized. This supports the biblical ideal that God’s Word should dwell richly in all His people (Colossians 3:16).
3. God’s Covenant Faithfulness
God’s detailed instructions and follow-through in providing for the Levites—including cities such as Rimmono—testify to His faithfulness in keeping His covenant promises to care for His people and maintain worship among them.
Reflection Questions
- What does the existence of Levitical cities like Rimmono teach us about the importance of spiritual leadership and instruction in a community?
- How does God’s provision for the Levites encourage you in trusting Him for your needs today?
- In what ways are you, as part of God’s people, living a “set apart” life that reflects holiness and service?
- How can you help bring spiritual truth into your community like the Levites once did from places like Rimmono?
- How does the presence of cities like Rimmono point you to the ministry and sufficiency of Jesus as our High Priest?
Rimmono may seem like a minor place in Scripture, but it stands as a meaningful reminder of God’s structure for worship, provision for ministry, and His desire to dwell among His people—ultimately fulfilled in Christ.