The Smallest Tribe: The Story of the Levites

In the census of the tribes, it becomes apparent that the tribe of Levi was significantly smaller than the others. This raises an intriguing question: how could it be that the tribe chosen by Hashem did not receive the blessing of growth like the rest of the Israelites?

This very question is posed by the Ramban: how could the servants and followers of Hashem not receive the blessing of increase?

The Ramban offers an interesting explanation: the tribe of Levi was not enslaved in Egypt, and the special blessing of multiplication was given to those Israelites who were enslaved and whom the Egyptians sought to destroy. Therefore, they "were fruitful and increased... and multiplied greatly." But the Levites experienced natural growth.

Another idea suggested by the Ramban is that Jacob, as known, was angry with Simon and Levi for their impulsive actions in Shechem, where they killed all the men of Shechem. Therefore, it is possible that Jacob's curse removed the blessing of multiplication from them. Although the tribe of Simon was initially larger, it later diminished due to a plague.

The Netziv of Volozhin, in "Haamek Davar," offers a different perspective: the tribe of Levi was engaged in the study of Torah and were more withdrawn compared to other tribes. Also, being of a higher status, Hashem is stricter with His devout followers, so any sin they committed could delay their blessing, as a sin by a person of stature is considered more severe.

Meanwhile, the holy Ohr HaChaim suggests that the Levites—specifically because they were of higher spiritual status and focused on spiritual matters—due to their distress over the decrees imposed on the Israelites, such as the mandate to throw sons into the Nile, separated themselves from their wives, as told about Amram, the father of Moses, leading to fewer descendants.

Additionally, the Sages said that the Ark would bring death to the Levites if not carried with proper respect, posing a mortal danger. The Netziv adds that the finest trees produce fewer fruits and require more care.