The Levites, descendants of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, hold a unique position among the tribes of Israel. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites were set apart for religious duties and were not allocated a specific territory in the Promised Land. Instead, they were given cities scattered throughout the territories of the other tribes (Joshua 21). The Levites were responsible for the tabernacle and later the temple services, including the roles of priests, musicians, gatekeepers, and other temple officials.

Census in the Wilderness

The first census of the Levites is recorded in the Book of Numbers. Unlike the other tribes, who were counted from twenty years old and upward, the Levites were counted from one month old and upward. This census was conducted by Moses and Aaron at the command of the LORD.

· Numbers 3:14-15 : "Then the LORD spoke to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai, saying, 'Number the Levites by their families and clans. You are to count every male a month old or more.'"

The total number of Levites counted in this census was 22,000 (Numbers 3:39). This number included the three main families of the Levites: the Gershonites, the Kohathites, and the Merarites, each with specific duties related to the tabernacle.

Second Census

A second census of the Levites is recorded later in the Book of Numbers, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land. This census was also conducted by Moses, and it counted the Levites from a month old and upward.

· Numbers 26:62 : "The registration of the Levites totaled 23,000, including every male a month old or more. They were not counted among the other Israelites, because no inheritance was given to them among the Israelites."

This second census shows an increase in the number of Levites, totaling 23,000. The Levites were not included in the general census of the Israelites because they were set apart for the service of the LORD and did not receive a land inheritance.

Duties and Organization

The Levites were organized into divisions based on their ancestral houses, each with specific responsibilities:

1. Gershonites: Responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains, coverings, and entrance screens (Numbers 3:25-26).
2. Kohathites: Charged with the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, and the altars (Numbers 3:31).
3. Merarites: Tasked with the care of the tabernacle's frames, crossbars, posts, and bases (Numbers 3:36-37).

The Levites were also divided into courses for service in the temple, a system that was later formalized by King David (1 Chronicles 23-24). This organization ensured that the worship and sacrifices in the temple were conducted according to the LORD's commands.

Significance

The Levites played a crucial role in the spiritual life of Israel. Their dedication to the service of the LORD and their separation from the other tribes underscored the holiness required in approaching God. The censuses of the Levites highlight their importance and the divine order established for worship and service in the community of Israel.