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Leviticus
Levites
1. The Levites were a tribe of Israelites that had a special role in the religious practices and rituals of ancient Israel. Their story is told in the book of Exodus and continued in the book of Leviticus in the Bible.
2. The Levites were descended from Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob and brother of Joseph. In the time of Moses, the Levites were chosen by God to serve as priests and caretakers of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that God commanded the Israelites to build in the wilderness. The Levites were responsible for setting up and taking down the Tabernacle whenever the Israelites moved, as well as performing the rituals and sacrifices that were central to the worship of God.
3. In Leviticus, many of the laws and regulations related to the priesthood and the Tabernacle are laid out, including instructions on how to make offerings, how to purify oneself before entering the Tabernacle, and how to observe various ceremonies and festivals.
4. The Levites were also responsible for maintaining order and discipline among the Israelites, and they played a key role in resolving conflicts and enforcing the law. They were not given land to cultivate or inherit as part of their duties, but were instead supported by tithes and offerings given by the other tribes of Israel.
5. The story of the Levites in Leviticus is one of service, obedience, and devotion to God. It highlights the importance of respecting the holiness of the Tabernacle and the rituals of worship, and it underscores the responsibility of the priesthood in leading and guiding the people of Israel.
