Kohath is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known as one of the sons of Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah. Kohath's lineage is crucial in the history of Israel, particularly concerning the Levitical priesthood and the service of the Tabernacle. His descendants, the Kohathites, played a vital role in the religious and ceremonial life of the Israelites.

Genealogy and Family

Kohath was the second son of Levi, as recorded in Genesis 46:11: "The sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari." Kohath had four sons: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel (Exodus 6:18). Amram, his most notable son, became the father of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam, making Kohath the grandfather of these pivotal figures in Israelite history.

Role and Duties

The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, alongside the Gershonites and Merarites. Their specific duties were related to the most sacred aspects of the Tabernacle. Numbers 4:4-15 outlines the responsibilities of the Kohathites, emphasizing their role in carrying the most holy objects of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils. These items were to be covered by Aaron and his sons before the Kohathites transported them, ensuring that the Kohathites did not touch or see the holy objects directly, as such actions would result in death (Numbers 4:15).

Inheritance and Cities

The Kohathites, like other Levites, did not receive a territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. Instead, they were given specific cities to dwell in, scattered throughout the tribes of Israel. Joshua 21:4-5 details the allocation of cities to the Kohathites, with some cities designated as cities of refuge, providing asylum for those who committed manslaughter unintentionally.

Significance in Israel's Worship

The Kohathites' role in transporting the sacred objects of the Tabernacle underscores their importance in maintaining the sanctity and continuity of Israel's worship. Their duties required a high level of reverence and obedience to God's commands, reflecting the broader Levitical call to holiness and service.

Rebellion and Redemption

Despite their sacred duties, some members of the Kohathite clan were involved in significant rebellion. Numbers 16 recounts the rebellion of Korah, a descendant of Kohath, who challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron. This rebellion resulted in severe consequences, with the earth swallowing Korah and his followers. However, the sons of Korah were spared and later became known for their contributions to the Psalms, indicating a redemptive aspect to their legacy.

Legacy

The legacy of Kohath and his descendants is woven throughout the narrative of Israel's history, from the wilderness wanderings to the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem. The Kohathites' dedication to their sacred duties and their connection to key biblical figures highlight their enduring significance in the spiritual life of Israel.6955. Qehath -- a son of Levi
... 6954, 6955. Qehath. 6956 . a son of Levi. Transliteration: Qehath Phonetic
Spelling: (keh-hawth') Short Definition: Kohath. ... Kohath. ...
/hebrew/6955.htm - 5kKohath's (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kohath's (3 Occurrences). Exodus 6:18 And the
sons of Kohath: Amram and Izhar and Hebron and Uzziel: and ...
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Ko'hathites (19 Occurrences)
Ko'hathites. Kohathites, Ko'hathites. Kohath's . Multi-Version Concordance
Ko'hathites (19 Occurrences). Numbers 3:27 Of Kohath...
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Koheleth (7 Occurrences)

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Aner (3 Occurrences)
... 24). (2.) A city of Manasseh given to the Levites of Kohath's family (1
Chronicles 6:70). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ANER (1). ...
/a/aner.htm - 8k

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