Twelve Tribes of Israel, The

For the most part, tribal identities have been lost through the generations, and the majority of Jews do not know which tribe they are from. There are a number of people whose families have passed down their identity as Kohanim (Priests) or Levites, ...

There are two basic components to a human being: (a) his essence, and (b) that which he projects forth, such as his talents and abilities . . .

Originally, the firstborn sons were to have been the priests of the Jewish nation, who would serve in the Tabernacle and in the Temple and be the spiritual leaders. When G‑d spared the Jewish firstborn during the Plague of the Firstborn in Egypt, He ...

Scripture never states explicitly that the tribe of Levi was not enslaved. In Midrash Tanchuma, Va'erah 6. however, Rabbi Joshua ben Levi makes this assertion. Rashi Exodus 5:4. sees it as implicit from the fact that Aaron was able to go and greet Moses, ...

Question: I am in a debate regarding Kohens and Levites. My friend says that Kohens are descended from Levites. I say that the three "levels" are Kohens, Levites and Israelites. Who is correct? Answer: You are both right. Kohanim (that's plural for ...

Abraham, commonly referred to as "The First Jew," epitomized "Jewishness" many centuries before the term came into common use

Question: Why do the Cohanim cover themselves and their hands when they do the priestly blessing? Why do the people cover themselves in their talitot? Answer: The Cohanim are meant to concentrate on blessing the congregation, and the congregation should ...

Question: In this week's Torah portion, after Abraham's victorious return from battle, we read:"Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine, and he was a priest to the Most High God. And [Melchizedek] blessed him, and he said, "Blessed be ...

Moshe Question: I heard that Kohanim (priests) are not permitted to attend the internment of a loved one. Is this true and why? Answer: I hope your question is only an academic exercise. If not, please accept my condolences on your loss. May G‑d comfort ...

Question: When the third Holy Temple is built – may it be soon – how and by what criteria will the new high priest be chosen? Answer: Before we discuss the appointment of the high priest with the coming of Moshiach, let's first discuss the nature of this ...