The Levites, from the tribe of Levi, had an important job during the Israelites’ wilderness journey. As described in Numbers 1–2, 3:5–13, the Levites were chosen by God to take care of the Tabernacle, the sacred tent where God’s presence stayed among His people. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites didn’t fight in battles or receive their own land. Instead, they served God and the community in many important ways. You can learn more about the Levites and the 12 tribes of Israel in our Twelve Tribes of Israel Activity Book, which is full of fun facts and activities!
Levites in the Wilderness
During their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, the Israelites carried the Tabernacle with them as a place to worship God. The Levites were responsible for setting up, taking down, and transporting this sacred tent whenever the Israelites moved to a new location. They also cared for the holy objects inside the Tabernacle, like the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and the golden menorah, which required careful handling and respect. The Levites camped closest to the Tabernacle, forming a protective circle around it to keep it safe. If you want to know how the tribes camped around the Tabernacle, check out our Twelve Tribes of Israel Activity Book for more details!
Roles and Responsibilities
The Levites had many jobs that helped the congregation of Israel. They worked alongside the priests, who also came from the tribe of Levi (from Aaron’s family), by preparing offerings, assisting with sacrifices, and keeping the Tabernacle clean and ready for worship. They were also in charge of teaching the people God’s Torah, helping them understand how to live in a way that pleased God. Some Levites served as judges, making sure that God’s laws were followed fairly.
The Levites were divided into three main groups—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—and each group had its own special job. The Gershonites carried the curtains and coverings of the Tabernacle. The Kohathites were responsible for carrying the sacred objects, like the Ark of the Covenant, and only they could touch these holy items (and even then, only after the priests had carefully wrapped them). The Merarites transported the heavy wooden frames and posts of the Tabernacle. Each group worked together to make sure the Tabernacle was always ready for worship wherever the Israelites camped.
Did You Know?
- The Levites didn’t receive their own land like the other tribes. Instead, Yah gave them cities to live in throughout the land so they could be close to the people they served (Numbers 35:1–8).
- The Levites' jobs were so important that Yah told Moses and Aaron exactly how many Levites there were (Numbers 3:14–39) and gave detailed instructions for their work!
The Levites played a key role in helping the Israelites stay faithful to Elohim during their wilderness journey. They worked hard to make sure worship continued and taught the people how to follow Yah's commands, even in the middle of the wilderness.
