In Jewish tradition, a Levite (/ˈliːvaɪt/, Hebrew: לֵוִי, Modern Levi, Tiberian Lēwî ; "Attached") is a member of the Hebrew tribe of Levi, descended from Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah.The Tribe of Levi served particular religious duties for the Israelites and had political responsibilities as well. In return, the landed tribes were expected to give tithe to support the Levites, particularly the tithe known as the 'Maaser Rishon'.