Numbers 18:18 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And the flesh of them shall be thine, as the wave breast and as the right shoulder are thine." This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Numbers that describes the duties and privileges of the priests and Levites in the Israelite community. In order to understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to examine its context within the larger narrative of the book of Numbers and the broader themes of the Old Testament.

The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and is traditionally ascribed to Moses as its author. It recounts the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the border of the Promised Land and provides a detailed account of their time in the wilderness. The book is named after the two censuses that are recorded in its opening chapters, which enumerate the Israelites and organize them into tribal units. Throughout the book, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of order, obedience, and loyalty to God and his commandments.

In Numbers 18, the focus is on the duties and responsibilities of the priests and the Levites, who were chosen to serve in the tabernacle and assist with the religious rituals and sacrifices. The chapter begins with a specific commandment to Aaron, the high priest, and his sons, to bear the iniquity of the sanctuary and the altar. They are to take care of the tabernacle and its furnishings, and to ensure that no unauthorized person enters the holy space. This is a crucial role, as the tabernacle is the place where God's presence dwells among the Israelites, and it is therefore essential that it be preserved and protected.

In verse 18, the text refers to the portions of the sacrifices that are to be given to the priests as their share for their service in the tabernacle. The "flesh" of the sacrifices, which includes the wave breast and the right shoulder, is to be given to the priests as their portion. These specific parts of the sacrifice are considered to be the most valuable and are set aside as a special offering to the Lord. By giving these portions to the priests, the Israelites are acknowledging the role and importance of the priesthood in mediating between the people and God.

The symbolism of the wave breast and the right shoulder can be understood in the context of the larger themes of sacrifice and atonement in the Old Testament. The wave breast, in particular, is a portion of the peace offering that is waved before the Lord as a gesture of dedication and surrender. It is symbolic of the relationship between the worshipper and God, and the act of waving it signifies the waving of one's own desires and ambitions in submission to God's will. The right shoulder is also a significant part of the sacrifice, as the right side is traditionally associated with strength and honor. By giving these portions to the priests, the Israelites are recognizing the divine authority and consecration of the priesthood, and the sacred nature of their service in the tabernacle.

This verse also highlights the concept of stewardship and provision within the Israelite community. The priests were not given an inheritance of land like the other tribes of Israel, but instead, they were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people. In this way, the priests were dependent on God's provision through the sacrifices and offerings of the people, and in turn, they were responsible for ministering to the spiritual needs of the community. This reciprocal relationship reflects the interconnectedness of the Israelite society and the importance of each individual's contribution to the community as a whole.

Overall, Numbers 18:18 conveys the important role and privilege of the priesthood in the religious life of the Israelites. It emphasizes the significance of the tabernacle as the dwelling place of God and the central site of worship, and it underscores the mutual dependence and responsibility of the priests and the people. The symbolism of the wave breast and the right shoulder points to the themes of dedication, submission, and honor in the context of sacrifice and atonement. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the sacred duties and the divine calling of the priesthood, and the importance of stewardship and provision within the community of faith.