THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
The role of the Levites holds significant importance, as the Lord declares, ‘Behold, I choose Levites from among the children of Israel for every firstborn who opens the womb of the daughters of Israel; they shall be an atonement for them, and they shall be Levites unto Me... I sanctified to Myself the firstborn in the land of Egypt’ (Num. 3:12-13). Unlike the other tribes, the Levites are not included in the general counting but are elevated above the others, chosen as the firstfruits set apart for God. Through them, commitments and atonements for transgressions are fulfilled. You shall not include them among the children of Israel but shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the covenant, its entirety, and all its furnishings.
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They are to transport the tabernacle and its items, serve in it, and encamp nearby. When the tabernacle needs to be moved, let the Levites carry it; when it is time to camp, let them set it up. Any outsider who approaches shall face dire consequences (Num. 1:49-51).
Indeed, you, as the priest, are chosen from among all the children of Israel, esteemed, and as the firstborn among the consecrated, you are assigned to the tabernacle as the guardian of the sanctity and faith. Any intruder is subject to death (Num. 1:51); your duty is to safeguard the ark of the covenant. Not everyone understands the depth of the commandments (Num. 1:51; Mt. 13:13-15; Jn. 12:40; Is. 6:9-10), as they are concealed by the Levites to prevent them from being comprehended by those unworthy to receive them. Moses perceived the spiritual circumcision, yet he concealed it to enact the physical rite; he recognized the pure and truthful unleavened bread (Ex. 12:15-28; 1 Cor. 5:8), witnessed the Lord's sufferings, but veiled the true unleavened bread beneath the physical elements of sacrifice, hiding the passion of Christ in the offering of a lamb or calf. The faithful Levites faithfully uphold the regulations within the protection of their belief.
Do you regard your responsibilities as trivial? First, you delve into the mysteries of God, embodying wisdom; then, you oversee the community, representative of justice; you defend the camp and maintain the tabernacle, demonstrating courage; and you remain self-controlled and thoughtful, reflecting moderation. St. Ambrose highlights these four primary virtues that should exemplify the clergy.