The appointment of priests and Levites is a significant aspect of the religious and communal life of ancient Israel, as outlined in the Old Testament. This system was established by God to ensure the proper worship and spiritual leadership of His people. The roles and responsibilities of priests and Levites were distinct yet complementary, serving to maintain the sanctity and order of worship in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple.

Priests:

The priesthood was established through the line of Aaron, the brother of Moses, from the tribe of Levi. Aaron and his descendants were chosen by God to serve as priests, a role that included offering sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and interceding on behalf of the people. The Book of Exodus details the initial appointment of Aaron and his sons: "Then bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar" (Exodus 28:1).

The consecration of priests involved a specific ritual, as described in Leviticus 8, which included washing, clothing in sacred garments, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices. This consecration set them apart for their holy duties. The high priest, a position first held by Aaron, had additional responsibilities, including entering the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16).

Levites:

The Levites, also from the tribe of Levi, were appointed to assist the priests and perform various duties related to the Tabernacle and Temple. Unlike the priests, the Levites did not perform sacrifices but were responsible for the care and transport of the Tabernacle, as well as its furnishings and sacred objects. Numbers 3:5-9 outlines their appointment: "The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 'Bring the tribe of Levi and present them to Aaron the priest to assist him. They are to perform duties for him and for the whole congregation before the Tent of Meeting, attending to the service of the tabernacle.'"

The Levites were divided into different families, each with specific responsibilities. The Kohathites, for example, were tasked with carrying the most sacred items, while the Gershonites and Merarites handled the curtains and structural components of the Tabernacle (Numbers 4).

Inheritance and Support:

Unlike the other tribes of Israel, the Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance. Instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself, and they were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people. Numbers 18:20-21 states, "The LORD said to Aaron, 'You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any portion among them; I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites. 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.'"

Significance:

The appointment of priests and Levites was central to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It ensured that worship was conducted according to divine instructions and that the people had mediators to intercede on their behalf. This system underscored the holiness of God and the need for purity and order in approaching Him. The roles of priests and Levites also foreshadowed the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who would offer Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity.