The Izeharites, also known as the Izharites, are a Levitical family descending from Izhar, the son of Kohath and grandson of Levi. As members of the tribe of Levi, the Izeharites held a significant role in the religious and ceremonial life of ancient Israel. The Levites were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, and the Izeharites were no exception, contributing to the sacred duties assigned to the Kohathite division.

Genealogy and Lineage

Izhar, the progenitor of the Izeharites, is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Levites. In Exodus 6:18, the Berean Standard Bible states, "The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. The lifespan of Kohath was 133 years." Izhar's lineage is further detailed in 1 Chronicles 6:18 : "The sons of Kohath: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel."

Role and Responsibilities

As part of the Kohathite clan, the Izeharites were entrusted with specific responsibilities related to the care and transportation of the most sacred objects of the Tabernacle. Numbers 4:4-15 outlines the duties of the Kohathites, emphasizing their role in carrying the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils. The Kohathites, including the Izeharites, were not permitted to touch the holy objects directly; instead, they were to carry them using poles after the priests had covered them.

Notable Descendants

One of the most notable descendants of Izhar is Korah, who is infamous for leading a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Numbers 16:1-3 recounts, "Now Korah son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, along with Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth, conducted a rebellion against Moses, along with 250 men of Israel, leaders of the congregation, chosen from the assembly, men of renown." This rebellion resulted in severe consequences, as God demonstrated His authority by causing the earth to swallow the rebels (Numbers 16:31-33).

Despite Korah's rebellion, the descendants of Korah, known as the Korahites, were later recognized for their contributions to the worship and music in the Temple. Several Psalms are attributed to the sons of Korah, indicating a legacy of devotion and service to God.

Historical and Theological Significance

The Izeharites, as part of the Levitical priesthood, played a crucial role in maintaining the sanctity and order of Israel's worship practices. Their responsibilities underscored the importance of holiness and reverence in approaching God, as well as the need for obedience to divine instructions. The account of Korah serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God's appointed leaders.

In summary, the Izeharites, through their lineage and service, contributed to the spiritual life of Israel, highlighting themes of duty, reverence, and the consequences of disobedience within the broader narrative of the Old Testament.Izeharites

(descendant of Izhar), The. A family of Kohathite Levites, descended from Izhar the son of Kohath, (Numbers 3:27) called also "Izharites" (1 Chronicles 26:23,29)

3325. Yitshari -- descendant of Izhar
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Yitshar; a Jitsharite or descendant of Jitshar -- Izeharites, Izharites. ...
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... Multi-Version Concordance Izeharites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 3:27 And of
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Izhar (10 Occurrences)

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Izehar (1 Occurrence)

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