The Levitical duties, as outlined in the Old Testament, refer to the responsibilities and functions assigned to the tribe of Levi, particularly the descendants of Aaron, who were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. These duties are foundational to understanding the religious and ceremonial life of ancient Israel.

Priestly Functions

The primary role of the Levites, especially the Aaronic priests, was to serve as mediators between God and the people of Israel. They were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the sanctity of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, and instructing the Israelites in the Law. The Book of Leviticus, which derives its name from the tribe, provides detailed instructions on the various offerings and sacrifices, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7).

The priests were also tasked with maintaining the sacred fire on the altar, as commanded in Leviticus 6:12-13 : "The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out. Every morning the priest is to add wood to the fire, arrange the burnt offering on it, and burn the fat portions of the peace offerings on it. The fire must be kept burning on the altar continually; it must not go out."

Guardians of Holiness

The Levites were charged with safeguarding the holiness of the sanctuary. They were to ensure that no unauthorized person approached the sacred areas, as outlined in Numbers 3:10 : "Appoint Aaron and his sons to serve as priests; anyone else who approaches the sanctuary must be put to death." This duty underscored the seriousness of maintaining the purity and sanctity of the worship space.

Musical and Liturgical Roles

In addition to their sacrificial duties, the Levites played a significant role in the musical and liturgical aspects of worship. They were responsible for singing and playing instruments during the Temple services, as seen in 1 Chronicles 15:16 : "David also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments—harps, lyres, and cymbals."

Teaching and Judicial Responsibilities

The Levites were also entrusted with teaching the Law to the people. They served as judges and teachers, helping to interpret and apply the Law in various situations. Deuteronomy 33:10 highlights this role: "They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob and Your law to Israel. They shall set incense before You and whole burnt offerings on Your altar."

Support and Maintenance

The Levites were supported by the tithes and offerings of the Israelites. Numbers 18:21 states, "Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do—the work of the Tent of Meeting." This provision allowed them to focus on their sacred duties without the distraction of secular labor.

Conclusion

The Levitical duties were integral to the spiritual life of Israel, ensuring that worship was conducted according to divine instructions and that the people remained in covenant relationship with God. Through their service, the Levites exemplified dedication to holiness, worship, and the teaching of God's Law.