Priests

In the Old Testament, priests held a significant role as mediators between God and the people of Israel. The priesthood was established through Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his descendants, as outlined in Exodus 28-29. The primary duties of the priests included offering sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and teaching the Law. The high priest, a position of great authority, entered the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16).

The Berean Standard Bible describes the priestly duties in Leviticus 10:11: "You must teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses." Priests were also responsible for blessing the people, as seen in Numbers 6:23-27, where the Aaronic Blessing is recorded.

In the New Testament, the concept of priesthood is expanded through the priesthood of all believers, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9 : "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

Levites

The Levites were a distinct tribe set apart for service to God, originating from Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Unlike the priests, who were specifically from the line of Aaron, all Levites were tasked with various duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple. Numbers 3:6-9 outlines their responsibilities: "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."

Levites served as musicians, gatekeepers, and assistants to the priests, ensuring the smooth operation of worship and sacrifices. They did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in and were supported by the tithes of the people (Numbers 18:21-24).

Temple Servants

Temple servants, also known as the Nethinim, were a group of individuals dedicated to assisting the Levites in the more menial tasks of temple service. Their origins are somewhat obscure, but they are believed to have been non-Israelites who were integrated into the service of the temple. Ezra 8:20 mentions them: "They also brought 220 of the temple servants, a body that David and the officials had established to assist the Levites."

The temple servants played a crucial role in maintaining the daily operations of the temple, allowing the Levites and priests to focus on their specific religious duties. Their inclusion in the community of Israel highlights the inclusive nature of worship and service to God.

Descendants of Solomon's Servants

The descendants of Solomon's servants were a group mentioned in the post-exilic period, particularly in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These individuals were likely the offspring of the laborers and craftsmen who served King Solomon during the construction of the temple and other building projects. Ezra 2:55-58 lists them among those returning from exile: "The descendants of Solomon’s servants: the descendants of Sotai, the descendants of Hassophereth, the descendants of Peruda... All the temple servants and the descendants of Solomon’s servants numbered 392."

Their inclusion in the lists of returnees underscores their continued association with the temple and its service, even after the Babylonian exile. They were integrated into the community and played a role in the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, contributing to the reestablishment of worship and religious practices in the land.