How does Numbers 3:27 connect to the broader duties in Leviticus?

The Kohathite Family Spotlighted in Numbers 3:27

• Numbers 3:27: “To Kohath belonged the clans of the Amramites, Izharites, Hebronites, and Uzzielites; these were the clans of the Kohathites.”

• This verse identifies one of the three great Levitical divisions: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.

• The Kohathites trace back to Levi’s son Kohath (Genesis 46:11), and through Amram come Moses and Aaron (Exodus 6:18–20).

• Their census count (Numbers 3:28) and camp placement (Numbers 3:29) underscore a special nearness to the Tabernacle’s most sacred zone.

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Duties Assigned to the Kohathites (Numbers 4:4–15)

• While Numbers 3:27 lists the families, Numbers 4 explains their work:

– Carry the Ark of the Covenant (4:5–6)

– Transport the table of showbread and its utensils (4:7–8)

– Move the golden lampstand and accessories (4:9–10)

– Bear the altars and all vessels of ministry (4:11–15)

• The holy objects are first covered by Aaron and his sons; only then may the Kohathites lift them. Direct contact brings death (4:15; cf. 2 Samuel 6:6–7).

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Linking Kohathite Service to Levitical Themes of Holiness

• Leviticus repeatedly stresses separation between holy and common (Leviticus 10:10; 11:44–45). The Kohathites embody this: they touch nothing until it is veiled.

• The need for covering mirrors Leviticus 16:2—“for I will appear in the cloud over the atonement cover”—reminding that God’s glory is both present and perilous.

• Leviticus 1–7 outlines offerings ensuring Israel’s approach to God; the Kohathites ensure the physical means of that approach (altar, Ark, lampstand) are safely moved.

• Leviticus 24:2–4 commands a perpetual lamp—Kohathites safeguard that lamp during transit, keeping worship continuous even while journeying.

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Guardrails Against Irreverence

• Leviticus 10:1–2 (Nadab and Abihu) warns of unauthorized fire; Numbers 4:15 warns Kohathites against unauthorized touch. Same principle: God defines access.

• Leviticus 22:2–3 calls priests to guard “holy things.” Kohathites are an extension of that guardianship under priestly oversight.

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Spiritual Takeaways

• God assigns specific callings inside His family; obedience down to clan and task matters (Colossians 3:23).

• Holiness is not abstract—Leviticus grounds it in concrete actions; Numbers shows those actions on the move.

• Right worship demands both right heart (Leviticus 19:2) and right handling (Numbers 4:15); the Kohathites model the latter in service to the former.