Expert: Ovadiah ben Avraham - 1/18/2008

Question
Hi,

I know that Biblical Jews were Cohen, Levite, or Yisrael and that all of today's Jews are descending from one of the three groups.

How does a Jew today know which group he belongs to?

Many thanks,

Steve

Answer
Steve,
Thank you for your kind question. Sorry I couldn't get to it until now (after Sabbath). The issue is not as important today as it was during Temple times, for obvious reasons. Most people know by their family tradition: A Kohain father will tell his son(s) of their heritage. Last names are also helpful but not 100%. Finally, there is a Kohain gene that can be tested genetically, but once again, it is not 100% nor could a non-observant Jew who suddenly found he was a Kohain assume the bimah and bless the people. Hope this helps. Shalom!