MPV Commentary

The Charge of the Priests and Levites.

1. The Lord said to Aaron, "You, your sons, and your father's household will bear the responsibility for the sanctuary." This assurance was given to the people to alleviate their concerns (Numbers 17:12), as the priests would be accountable not only for their own sins but also for the sins of the people. In this way, the weight of their high dignity was balanced by the burdens and dangers associated with it.

2-7. The Lord also designated Aaron's brothers from the tribe of Levi to perform specific duties in the sacred office. The priests were entrusted with the care of the sanctuary and the altar, while the Levites were responsible for all other aspects of the tabernacle. The Levites served the priests as attendants, given to them as gifts to aid in the service of the tabernacle. In contrast, the priesthood was a "service of gift," a high and dignified office. Any stranger who attempted to intrude into these sacred duties would be put to death.