The twelve tribes of Israel trace their origin to the twelve sons of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel (Genesis 32:28). These sons became the patriarchs of the tribes that would make up the nation of Israel. Each tribe held specific roles and responsibilities, forming a community united by God’s covenant and divided according to His purpose. In this blog, we’ll explore each tribe’s unique identity, the responsibilities of the Levites, the system of tithes, and the prophetic list of tribes in Revelation, including those that are notably absent.
The Twelve Tribes of Israel: An Overview
The twelve sons of Jacob, through whom the tribes were named, were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. When Jacob blessed his sons in Genesis 49, he spoke prophetically over each one, highlighting qualities that would define their tribal identities and destinies.
| Tribe | Role/Description |
|---|---|
| Reuben | As the firstborn, but forfeited his birthright due to sin (Genesis 49:3-4). |
| Simeon | Known for zeal and violence alongside Levi; later scattered among the other tribes (Genesis 49:5-7). |
| Levi | Set apart for priestly duties; responsible for the temple service and teaching the Law (Deuteronomy 33:8-10). |
| Judah | The tribe of kings, including David and ultimately Jesus; known for leadership (Genesis 49:8-10). |
| Dan | Known for judges and warriors, but associated with idolatry (Genesis 49:16-17). |
| Naphtali | Known for bravery and freedom; given a blessing of beauty and favor (Genesis 49:21). |
| Gad | Known as a warrior tribe, defending Israel’s territory (Genesis 49:19). |
| Asher | Blessed with abundance and prosperity; provided food for Israel (Genesis 49:20). |
| Issachar | Known for strength and hard work, as a people of farmers and laborers (Genesis 49:14-15). |
| Zebulun | Settled by the sea; known for trade and business (Genesis 49:13). |
| Joseph | Split into two tribes, Ephraim and Manasseh, receiving a double portion due to Jacob’s blessing (Genesis 48:5-6). |
| Benjamin | Known for skill in battle; associated with strength and loyalty (Genesis 49:27). |
The Tribe of Levi: A Unique Calling and Exemption from Tithes
Levi, the third son of Jacob, was set apart by God for priestly service after the tribe demonstrated loyalty to God during the incident with the golden calf (Exodus 32:25-29). The tribe of Levi received no inheritance of land among Israel’s tribal allotments. Instead, God Himself was their inheritance (Numbers 18:20-24), and they were scattered among the cities of Israel to teach the Law and lead in worship.
Why Levi Did Not Pay Tithes
Because of their service in the temple and their dedication to the priesthood, the Levites were supported by the tithes of the other eleven tribes. Numbers 18:21 states, “Behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work which they perform, the work of the tabernacle of meeting.” Levites, therefore, did not give a tithe of their produce or land because they had none; their role was to minister to the Lord, and they were sustained by the offerings of others.
The Tithe System: Who Paid and Why
The tithe was a commandment in the Law where each Israelite was to give a tenth of their produce, livestock, and resources to support the Levites and the work of God. The tribes gave from their increase (Leviticus 27:30), which was collected and used for temple service, caring for the Levites, and providing for the poor and those in need.
While the Levites did not pay tithes on land or produce, they were instructed to give a “tithe of the tithes” to support the priests (Numbers 18:26). Thus, while they received tithes, the Levites also contributed a portion back to honor God and support the priestly ministry.
The Twelve Tribes in Revelation: Tribes Mentioned and Replaced
In Revelation 7, we see a prophetic mention of the twelve tribes of Israel, sealed by God’s protection during the end times. The list in Revelation 7:4-8, however, does not match the traditional listing of the twelve tribes and has some significant differences:
| Tribe Listed in Revelation 7 | Notable Changes |
|---|---|
| Judah | – |
| Reuben | – |
| Gad | – |
| Asher | – |
| Naphtali | – |
| Manasseh | Joseph replaces Ephraim in this list. |
| Simeon | – |
| Levi | Included, despite not typically receiving an inheritance. |
| Issachar | – |
| Zebulun | – |
| Joseph | Included in place of Ephraim. |
| Benjamin | – |
Tribes Excluded: Dan and Ephraim
The tribes of Dan and Ephraim are notably absent from this list. Many scholars believe this omission is due to their association with idolatry. In Judges 18, Dan established an idolatrous worship system, while Ephraim is also known for idolatrous practices (Hosea 4:17). This idolatry disqualified them from the end-times protection of the twelve tribes in Revelation.
Tribes Added: Levi and Joseph
In Revelation 7, Levi is included, even though they did not typically receive a land inheritance, as their inheritance was the Lord Himself. Joseph is also named instead of his son Ephraim. Joseph’s inclusion perhaps serves as a replacement for Ephraim, allowing for twelve tribes to be counted without including the idolatrous tribes.
The Significance of the Tribes in Revelation
The list of tribes in Revelation represents a purified Israel, chosen and protected during the end times. These tribes are symbolically sealed, representing God’s faithfulness to preserve a remnant of His people, and highlight a future where Israel is restored and faithful.
The Legacy of the Twelve Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel formed the foundation of God’s chosen people, each with unique roles and purposes. The Levites, set apart for holy service, did not inherit land or pay tithes but served in the temple, receiving sustenance from the offerings of the other tribes. Meanwhile, the exclusion of Dan and Ephraim in Revelation reminds us of the consequences of idolatry, as these tribes were replaced by others faithful to God.
Together, the historical account of the twelve tribes paints a picture of God’s covenant with Israel, His faithfulness, and His expectation of holiness. As Revelation shows us, God will ultimately fulfill His promises to Israel, purifying and sealing His people for the future. These tribes stand as both a testimony of God’s grace and a reminder of the importance of loyalty to Him in every generation.
