If a kohen is among those present, he must be the first to be offered the opportunity to deliver a dvar Torah (it is customary during a meal to ask one of those present to share an interpretation of the Torah) or to speak at a public gathering.
6. If property of some kind is being divided, and each person needs to take their share, the kohen is given the opportunity to choose first, even if the shares are equal.
7. A kohen may waive certain privileges if he believes that someone more deserving is present. At large meals held in honor of a brit milah or a wedding, a kohen may waive his right to recite the blessing first in favor of someone else. But for the Torah reading, in all cases only a kohen may be called up first, followed by a Levite.
8. Unless there is a particular need, a kohen should not be asked to carry things or serve at the table, especially if this involves dirty work. However, if a kohen wishes to help on his own initiative, there is no prohibition.
There is an opinion that mechilah (a valid waiver by a kohen who agrees to perform a particular task without any objection) applies only when he gains some benefit from the work, for example, if he is paid for it, or when the request comes from someone close to him whom he is always happy to help. Ideally, this opinion should be followed.
9. According to some authorities on Torah law, someone who asks an unlearned kohen to perform a particular task does not violate the commandment to “honor kohanim.” But even in this case, he may not be asked to take part in dirty work (for example, collecting rubbish and throwing it away).
Where possible, this rule should also be followed with regard to a young kohen who has not yet reached the age of thirteen. However, a kohen himself may always ask another kohen to help him carry things or perform another task.
10. Someone who treats a kohen with disrespect or shames him violates the commandment to “sanctify him.” Anyone who listens to gossip about a kohen, spreads it themselves, insults him, or, all the more so, strikes him also violates this prohibition. It is also known that someone who insults a kohen pays a larger fine than for insulting a Levite.
11. Before the blessings during prayer, Levites always help the kohanim wash their hands, and this is considered a mitzvah even if the kohen is unlearned.
12. The commandment to honor a kohen is not limited by time or place. All Jews are obliged to honor and support the descendants of Aaron even after the destruction of the Temple. Children should also be trained to fulfill this commandment by being taught about the Temple and the special status of kohanim.