The Uzzie'lites are a group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically within the context of the Levitical families. The name "Uzzie'lites" is derived from Uzziel, a descendant of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was the patriarch of the Israelite tribe of Levi. The Levites held a special role among the tribes of Israel, being set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Genealogical Context

Uzziel was a son of Kohath, who was one of the three sons of Levi. The Kohathites, as descendants of Kohath, were entrusted with the care of the most sacred objects of the Tabernacle. Uzziel himself is mentioned in the genealogies of the Levites, and his descendants, the Uzzie'lites, are recognized as a distinct family within the broader Kohathite clan.

In 1 Chronicles 23:12, the genealogy of the Levites is outlined: "The sons of Kohath: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel—four in all." This passage establishes Uzziel as a significant figure within the Levitical lineage. The Uzzie'lites, therefore, are the descendants of Uzziel, and they played a role in the religious life of Israel.

Role and Duties

The Uzzie'lites, as part of the Kohathite division, were responsible for specific duties related to the Tabernacle. Numbers 3:30-31 provides insight into their responsibilities: "The leader of the families of the Kohathites was Elizaphan son of Uzziel. Their duties involved the ark, the table, the lampstand, the altars, the articles of the sanctuary used in ministering, the curtain, and all the service for these items."

This passage highlights the sacred trust placed upon the Uzzie'lites and their fellow Kohathites. They were charged with the care and transportation of the most holy items within the Tabernacle, underscoring their importance in maintaining the spiritual and ritual purity of Israel's worship practices.

Historical Significance

The Uzzie'lites, like other Levitical families, were integral to the religious structure of ancient Israel. Their service ensured the proper functioning of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, facilitating the worship and sacrificial system that was central to Israelite life. The Levites, including the Uzzie'lites, were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes; instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself, as stated in Deuteronomy 18:1-2: "The Levitical priests—indeed the whole tribe of Levi—shall have no portion or inheritance with Israel. They shall eat the offerings made by fire to the LORD, for that is their inheritance."

Spiritual Legacy

The Uzzie'lites, through their faithful service, contributed to the spiritual heritage of Israel. Their dedication to the sacred duties assigned to them reflects the broader Levitical commitment to serving God and His people. The legacy of the Uzzie'lites, as part of the Levitical priesthood, is a testament to the importance of obedience, service, and reverence in the worship of the Lord.Uzzie'lites (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 3:27
And of Kohath was the family of the Amramites, and the family of the Izharites, and the family of the Hebronites, and the family of the Uzzielites; these are the families of the Kohathites:
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 26:23
Of the Amramites, of the Izharites, of the Hebronites, of the Uzzielites;
(See RSV)

Uzzie'lites (2 Occurrences)
Uzzie'lites. Uzzielites, Uzzie'lites. Vacancy . Multi-Version Concordance
Uzzie'lites (2 Occurrences). Numbers 3:27 And of Kohath ...
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Vacancy (3 Occurrences)

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Uzzielites (2 Occurrences)

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