Levite facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| ~500,000–600,000 worldwide | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 Israel |
240,000 |
 United States |
200,000 |
 France |
16,000 |
 Canada |
12,000 |
| Languages | |
| Vernacular: Hebrew, English Historical: Biblical Hebrew, Aramaic |
|
| Religion | |
| Judaism, Samaritanism | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Jews, Samaritans | |
|
Levites are the descendants of the Tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Levites are integrated in Jewish and Samaritan communities, but keep a distinct status. There are estimated 300,000 Levites among Ashkenazi Jewish communities. Total percentage of Levites among Jews is about 4%. |
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A Levite or Levi (in Hebrew: לֵוִי) is a Jewish person who belongs to a special family group. They are believed to be direct descendants of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob from the ancient Hebrew Bible. This means their family line has been passed down from father to son for thousands of years.
Levites are found within Jewish and Samaritan communities all over the world. Even though they are part of these communities, they have a unique role and history that sets them apart.
Who Are the Levites?
The Levites are one of the original tribes of Israel. In ancient times, the twelve tribes were like large family groups that made up the nation of Israel. The Levites were given a special job by God, as described in the Hebrew Bible.
Their main duty was to help with religious services and to teach the laws of God. They did not receive their own land when the Israelites settled in the land of Israel. Instead, they lived in different cities among the other tribes.
Their Special Role
In the Book of Leviticus and the Book of Numbers, parts of the Hebrew Bible, the Levites had important duties. They served as assistants to the priests, who were also from the tribe of Levi but from a specific family line (the descendants of Aaron).
- They helped Moses and the priests with prayers and rituals.
- They took care of the tabernacle, which was a holy tent where people worshipped God before the Temple was built.
- They transported the Tabernacle and its holy items when the Israelites traveled.
- They were also responsible for teaching the people about God's laws.
Levites Today
Today, Levites continue to be recognized within Jewish communities. While they no longer serve in the ancient Temple (because it was destroyed), they still have some special roles in religious ceremonies.
For example, during some synagogue services, Levites are called upon to perform certain tasks. They might wash the hands of the priests before a blessing or be the second person called to read from the Torah. This shows how their ancient role is still remembered and honored.
There are many Levites around the world. It is estimated that about 4% of all Jewish people are Levites. They live in places like Israel, the United States, France, and Canada.
