Numbers 4:2

"Take a census of the Kohathites among the Levites by their clans and families,

Study Bible

Take a census
The phrase "Take a census" in Numbers 4:2 is a directive from God to Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew root for "census" is "nasa," which means to lift, carry, or take. In the context of the Israelites, taking a census was not merely about counting people; it was about recognizing and acknowledging each individual's role and responsibility within the community. This census was specifically for the Levites, who were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle. Historically, censuses were significant in ancient cultures for organizing military and labor resources. In a spiritual sense, this act of counting underscores the importance of each person's contribution to the collective mission of God's people.

of the sons of Kohath
The "sons of Kohath" were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, the others being Gershon and Merari. Kohath was a son of Levi, and his descendants were given the sacred duty of caring for the most holy objects of the Tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant. The Kohathites' responsibilities highlight the theme of holiness and the reverence required in handling sacred things. This lineage emphasizes the importance of heritage and the passing down of spiritual responsibilities through generations, a concept deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition.

from among the Levites
The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties, distinct from the other tribes of Israel. The phrase "from among the Levites" indicates a selection process within a group already chosen for divine service. The Levites were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes; instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself and the privilege of serving Him. This selection from among the Levites for specific tasks within the Tabernacle service underscores the idea of divine calling and the special roles individuals play in God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kohathites
A clan within the tribe of Levi, specifically tasked with the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle. They were one of the three main divisions of the Levites.

2. Sons of Levi
The descendants of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The Levites were set apart for religious duties and service in the tabernacle.

3. Census
A counting or numbering of people, often for organizational or military purposes. In this context, it was for the purpose of assigning duties related to the tabernacle.

4. Clans and Families
The subdivisions within the tribe of Levi, indicating the importance of family lineage and structure in the organization of Israelite society.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence that the Israelites carried with them during their journey through the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure
God values order and structure in worship and service. The census of the Kohathites reflects the need for organized service in the community of faith.

Sacred Responsibilities
The Kohathites were entrusted with the most sacred objects, teaching us the importance of reverence and responsibility in handling the things of God.

Family and Community Roles
Each family and clan had specific roles, highlighting the importance of understanding and fulfilling our God-given roles within the church and community.

Faithfulness in Service
The Kohathites' duties required diligence and faithfulness, reminding us to be faithful in whatever tasks God assigns to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the census of the Kohathites teach us about the importance of organization in our spiritual lives and church communities?

2. How can we apply the concept of sacred responsibility in our daily lives, especially in how we handle the things of God?

3. In what ways can understanding our family or community roles enhance our service to God and others?

4. How does the example of the Kohathites encourage us to be faithful in the tasks God has given us, no matter how small or large?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where God emphasizes the importance of order and structure in worship and service? How do these examples apply to modern church practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:16-25
Provides genealogical details about the sons of Levi, including Kohath, and outlines the family structure that is relevant to understanding the organization of the Levites.

Numbers 3:27-32
Describes the specific duties of the Kohathites, emphasizing their role in carrying the most sacred items of the tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant.

1 Chronicles 6:1-15
Chronicles the lineage of the Levites, including the Kohathites, and highlights their ongoing role in temple service.