Deuteronomy 10:8

At that time. That is, at Sinai (see verses 5, 10). Reference is to Moses’ return to camp following his second sojourn of 40 days in the mountain.

Separated. The form of the Hebrew verb here used indicates a solemn act of dedication to the service of God. In a similar way Israel was “separated” from among other nations (Leviticus 20:24), and the Levites from among the tribes of Israel (Numbers 16:9), thereby making them peculiarly Jehovah’s (Numbers 8:14). The Levites had separated themselves from the other tribes in response to Moses’ call to take a stand for God in the midst of apostasy (Exodus 32:26-29). In character they were separate from their brethren, by virtue of their own choice; now, by virtue of God’s choice, they are separated to His service.

To bear the ark. This sacred duty was assigned to the Kohathites, as the camp was moved from one site to another (Numbers 3:27, 31).

Stand before the Lord. This is a phrase that denotes consecrated devotion to the Lord’s service, in public ministry. They ministered to God as court officials did before a king. The priests were responsible to God. It is used also of the prophets as ministers of God (1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). It is used also of the attendance of Gehazi upon the prophet Elisha (2 Kings 5:25).

To minister unto him. The Levites were to serve the priests as their assistants (Numbers 3:6), and to take general care of the tabernacle (Deuteronomy 10:8). The name “Levite” came to designate the non-Aaronic members of the priestly tribe. The sons of Aaron are not technically “Levites.” The Levites were consecrated to the duties of the sanctuary service, other than those of worship and sacrifice.

Bless in his name. See Numbers 6:23-27, where this expression is used of praising God and blessing the people with uplifted hands. This was a solemn duty performed by priests (Leviticus 9:22) as the closing act of the morning and evening service and at other times. On momentous occasions the kings also blessed the people (2 Samuel 6:18). Moses speaks of it again in Deuteronomy 21:5.