Levi was one of the twelve sons of Jacob and Leah, making him a key figure in the Hebrew Bible. He is known as the ancestor of the Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service in ancient Israel. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to dwell in. Levi's descendants played a significant role in the religious life of the Israelites, including the priestly family of Aaron. The tribe of Levi was responsible for the care of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, ensuring the proper conduct of worship and rituals.