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About Rav Ovadiah
Expertise
Willing to answer and research general Halakhah questions in any field, including medical ethics.

Experience
Attended yeshiva. Author. Shomer miztvot.

Education/Credentials
Doctorate Degree
Organizations: http://betmidrashmoedim.org/

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Homework Help > Judaism > Orthodox Judaism > Cohen, Levite, or Yisrael?

Orthodox Judaism - Cohen, Levite, or Yisrael?


Expert: Rav Ovadiah - 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!

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