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Webster 1913 Edition
Levite
Le′vite
(lē′vīt)
, Noun.
[L.
Levites
, Gr. Λευῒτης
, fr. Heb. Levi
, one of the sons of Jacob.] 1.
(Bib. Hist.)
One of the tribe or family of Levi; a descendant of Levi; esp., one subordinate to the priests (who were of the same tribe) and employed in various duties connected with the tabernacle first, and afterward the temple, such as the care of the building, bringing of wood and other necessaries for the sacrifices, the music of the services, etc.
2.
A priest; – so called in contempt or ridicule.
Webster 1828 Edition
Levite
LE'VITE
,Noun.
One of the tribe or family of Levi; a descendant of Levi; more particularly, an officer in the Jewish church, who was employed in manual service, as in bringing wood and other necessaries for the sacrifices. The Levites also sung and played on instruments of music. They were subordinate to the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who was also of the family of Levi.