The holy portion was not exactly in the center of the land. There were seven tribal strips to the north and five to the south. Although not centrally located, the spiritual center had moved significantly north from Jerusalem.
The importance of the holy portion for the Lord's temple is emphasized by its detailed dimensions and composition, unlike the brief descriptions of the tribal areas.
This special portion was dedicated to God and could never be sold, traded, or used by others. It consisted of strips running from east to west, given to the Levites, the priests, and the city. The area for the ordained priests surrounded the temple, protecting it from anything unholy. An area for the Levites was to the north.