Kohein
The kohanim are the descendants of Aaron,
chosen by G-d at the time of
the incident with the Golden Calf to perform certain sacred work, particularly
in connection with the animal
sacrifices and the rituals related to the Temple.
After the destruction of the Temple, the role of the kohanim diminished
significantly in favor of the rabbis; however, we continue to keep track
of kohein lineage.
Kohanim are given the first aliyah on the Sabbath (i.e., the first opportunity to recite
a blessing over the Torah reading), which is considered an honor. They are
also required to recite a blessing over the congregation at certain times
of the year.
The term “Kohein” is the source of the common Jewish surname “Cohen,” but
not all Cohens are Koheins and not all Koheins are Cohens.
Sources: Judaism
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