Take heed to thyself that thou forsake not the Levite as long as thou livest upon the earth.
Israel was to take heed never to forsake the Levite, but to keep providing for him and not neglect him as long as they lived upon the earth. The charge was lifelong, requiring continued provision throughout life.
The reason was that the Levites had no inheritance of land, and therefore depended for their support on the tithes, gifts, and offerings of the people. They served as ministers of the sanctuary, taught the people, and represented God, and for that work they were to be supported and honored.
Israel was to take heed never to forsake the Levite, but to keep providing for him and not neglect him as long as they lived upon the earth. The charge was lifelong, requiring continued provision throughout life.
The reason was that the Levites had no inheritance of land, and therefore depended for their support on the tithes, gifts, and offerings of the people. They served as ministers of the sanctuary, taught the people, and represented God, and for that work they were to be supported and honored.