Gifts of the Kohanim

After the authority of Moshe and Aharon was clarified, and there was no doubt as to their being chosen by Hashem, the special gifts of the Kohanim were enumerated.

There were a total of twenty-four gifts given to the Kohanim. Most of them no longer apply since we do not have a Beit Hamikdash.

The Pidyon Haben ceremony is still observed as first born sons are redeemed. The Kohein is entitled to keep the five silver coins as his redemption fee.

We also observe today the sanctity of first born male animals. They may not be consumed until these animals develop a blemish. In some instances, the fetus is sold to a non-Jew and then bought back after birth.

We also observe the redemption of the first born donkey, פטר חמור, as we exchange it for a goat, which is meant to be given to a Kohein. And finally, parts of the thigh, maw, and jaw are given to a Kohein. Nowadays its value is given to a needy Kohein.

The Temple gifts were divided between those that were consumed in the Temple itself, such as sacrifices, those that applied in Jerusalem within the walls of the city, and those given inside Israel.

Examples of gifts given anywhere in Israel, included Teruma, the Challah, and the first of the shearings, ראשית הגז. Pidyon Haben applied even outside of Israel.

We see how a Kohein could even become wealthy if he was popular, as many of these gifts could be given to the Kohein of your choice. The Levites were much more poor as their gifts were limited primarily to מעשר ראשון, the first tithe.

We pray for the day when we again activate all of these twenty-four gifts.