The Levites’ first census

⁵ The Lord spoke to Moses: ⁶ Bring near the tribe of Levi and place them before Aaron the priest. They will assist him. ⁷ They will perform duties for him and for the entire community before the meeting tent, doing the work of the dwelling. ⁸ They will be responsible for all the equipment of the meeting tent and the duties on behalf of the Israelites when they do the work of the dwelling. ⁹ You will give the Levites to Aaron and his sons. They have been assigned as a gift to him from the Israelites. ¹⁰ You will appoint Aaron and his sons to be responsible for the priesthood. Any other person who approaches will be put to death.