Levite

in Jewish history, a descendant of Levi, one of the sons of Jacob. The family of Aaron, one of their number, was set aside as priests. The rest of the tribe were assistants to the holy office. The Levites had no fields, but were assigned thirty-five cities as places of residence. They were supported by tithes, or a fixed share of the produce of the other tribes. They were excused from going to war. They guarded the tabernacle and carried it from place to place until it was established in the Temple of Solomon. They assisted at religious services, furnished music, and had charge of the church revenues and treasures. They prepared the corn, wine, and oil for sacrifice. They were the learned tribe of the Israelites,--the religious guides and teachers of the people. They became scribes and judges.