What were the duties of the sons of Levi?

As one of the twelve tribes of Israel, the Levites were set apart for special religious duties and responsibilities. Their role was not only pivotal in the spiritual life of the nation but also in the practical organization and maintenance of the tabernacle and, later, the temple.

Drawing primarily from the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, this article will delve into the various aspects of the Levitical duties, their division among the different families, their evolution over time, and their lasting significance.

The Origin and Selection of the Levites

Levi was the third son of Jacob and Leah and became the ancestor of the Levite tribe. During the Exodus from Egypt, the Levites distinguished themselves by their zeal for God during the incident of the golden calf (Exodus 32). As a result, God chose the tribe of Levi to serve in special roles, setting them apart from the rest of Israel.

Unlike the other tribes, the Levites were not given a territorial inheritance; instead, their inheritance was the service of God and the support provided by the tithes and offerings of the people (Numbers 18:20-21).

The Structure of the Levitical Duties

The tribe of Levi was divided into three main families corresponding to the three sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Each family was assigned specific duties related to the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings.

The Gershonites

The Gershonites were responsible for the care of the tabernacle’s coverings, curtains, and hangings (Numbers 3:25-26). This included the tent of meeting, its covering, the curtain at the entrance, and the hangings of the courtyard. Their role was essential for the assembly, disassembly, transportation, and maintenance of these vital components.

The Kohathites

The Kohathites had arguably the most significant and sacred responsibilities. They were in charge of the most holy objects: the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the utensils of the sanctuary (Numbers 3:31). However, they were not allowed to touch or look directly at these items; the priests (descendants of Aaron) had to cover them before the Kohathites could transport them (Numbers 4:15-20). This highlights the seriousness and sanctity of their duties.

The Merarites

The Merarites were tasked with the care of the tabernacle’s structural elements, including the frames, crossbars, posts, bases, and all related equipment (Numbers 3:36-37). Their work was physically demanding but essential for the stability and mobility of the tabernacle.

The Priests: The Descendants of Aaron

Within the tribe of Levi, a special family was chosen for priestly duties: the descendants of Aaron, Moses’ brother. While all priests were Levites, not all Levites were priests. The priests had unique responsibilities, including offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the lamps, and interceding for the people (Leviticus 1–7; Exodus 30:7-8). They also performed rituals for purification and atonement and instructed the people in the Law.

The Levites as Assistants

Although the priests had the most sacred role, the rest of the Levites served as their assistants (Numbers 3:6-9). Their tasks included preparing offerings, ensuring ritual purity, guarding the sanctuary, and helping with the logistics of worship. They served as doorkeepers, singers, and musicians, particularly after the construction of the temple in Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 23:3-5).

The Levites and the Tabernacle

During the wilderness period, the Levites camped around the tabernacle, forming a protective barrier between the sanctuary and the rest of the tribes (Numbers 1:50-53). This arrangement underscored their mediating role between God and Israel. Only Levites were allowed to approach and serve at the tabernacle, emphasizing the holiness required for such service.

The Levites and the Temple

With the building of Solomon’s Temple, the Levitical duties expanded and became more structured (1 Chronicles 23–26). The Levites were organized into divisions for different roles, including temple maintenance, treasury management, music, and security. They also played a crucial part in leading worship and teaching the law to the people (2 Chronicles 17:7-9).

The Levites as Teachers and Judges

Another important duty of the Levites was teaching the Law of God. Because of their knowledge and proximity to the priests, Levites were dispatched throughout Israel to instruct the people in God’s commandments (Deuteronomy 33:10; 2 Chronicles 17:8-9). They also served as judges in certain legal matters, helping to administer justice according to the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 17:8-13).

The Levites and the Cities of Refuge

The Levites were given forty-eight cities scattered throughout the land of Israel, six of which were designated as cities of refuge (Numbers 35:6-7). These cities provided sanctuary for those accused of manslaughter, ensuring due process and protection from vengeance until a proper trial could be held. The Levites, as non-landowners and spiritual leaders, were ideally placed to administer these cities impartially.

The Levites and the Sacrificial System

A core aspect of Levitical duty was participation in the sacrificial system. While the priests performed the actual sacrifices, Levites helped with the preparation, handling of animals, cleaning, and disposal of remains (2 Chronicles 29:34). Their assistance enabled the priests to focus on the more sacred aspects of the rituals.

The Levites and Music in Worship

Music became a major part of Levitical service, especially during the time of King David. Certain Levites were appointed as singers and musicians to lead worship, compose psalms, and play instruments (1 Chronicles 15:16-24; 23:5). This tradition continued in the temple and became a defining feature of Israelite worship.

The Levites’ Role in Festivals and Assemblies

The Levites played prominent roles during national festivals such as Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. They prepared the sanctuary, assisted with offerings, led the people in praise and prayer, and ensured proper observance of rituals (2 Chronicles 30:16-22). Their participation was vital for the orderly and meaningful conduct of these significant events.

The Support and Provision for the Levites

Since the Levites had no land inheritance, they were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people (Numbers 18:21-24). Every Israelite was required to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to the Levites, who in turn gave a tenth of what they received to the priests. This system ensured the Levites could devote themselves fully to their spiritual duties without the distractions of farming or business.

The Levites and Ritual Purity

Levitical service required a high standard of ritual purity. Levites underwent special consecration ceremonies before beginning their duties (Numbers 8:5-22). They also had to avoid defilement from contact with the dead, certain diseases, or other sources of impurity. If defiled, they could not perform their duties until they had been purified according to the Law.

Changes in Levitical Duties Over Time

Over the centuries, the role of the Levites evolved. During periods of national apostasy, their duties were sometimes neglected or usurped. However, during times of religious revival, such as under King Hezekiah or Josiah, the Levites were instrumental in restoring proper worship and teaching (2 Chronicles 29-30; 34:8-33). After the Babylonian exile, the Levites helped re-establish the temple service and the reading of the Law (Nehemiah 8:7-9).

The Symbolic and Spiritual Significance of the Levites

The duties of the sons of Levi carried deep symbolic meaning. Their separation from the rest of Israel, their role as mediators, and their commitment to the service of God all pointed to the ideals of holiness, obedience, and dedication. The Levites exemplified what it meant to be wholly devoted to God’s purposes.