The Kohathites, Merarites, and Gershonites are three distinct clans within the tribe of Levi, each with specific roles and responsibilities in the service of the Tabernacle, as outlined in the Old Testament. These clans are named after the sons of Levi: Kohath, Merari, and Gershon. Their duties were crucial for the functioning and maintenance of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness.

Kohathites

The Kohathites were descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi. Their primary responsibility was the care and transportation of the most sacred objects of the Tabernacle. According to Numbers 4:4-15, the Kohathites were tasked with carrying the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils. These items were considered the most holy, and the Kohathites were instructed to handle them with great care. The items were first covered by Aaron and his sons before the Kohathites could transport them, ensuring that they did not touch or see the holy objects directly, as stated in Numbers 4:15: "After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all their equipment, the Kohathites are to come and carry them; but they must not touch the holy objects, or they will die."

The Kohathites were given no carts or oxen for transportation, as their duties required them to carry the sacred items on their shoulders, emphasizing the sanctity and reverence due to these objects (Numbers 7:9).

Merarites

The Merarites, descendants of Merari, the third son of Levi, were responsible for the structural components of the Tabernacle. Their duties included the care and transportation of the frames, crossbars, posts, bases, and all related equipment, as detailed in Numbers 4:29-33. The Merarites were provided with carts and oxen to assist in the transportation of these heavy materials, as recorded in Numbers 7:8: "And he gave four carts and eight oxen to the Merarites, according to their service, under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest."

The Merarites' role was essential for the assembly and disassembly of the Tabernacle, ensuring that the structure was stable and secure during the Israelites' journey.

Gershonites

The Gershonites, descendants of Gershon, the first son of Levi, were assigned the care of the Tabernacle's coverings and curtains. Their responsibilities included the transport and maintenance of the tent curtains, the coverings of the Tabernacle, the entrance curtain, the curtains of the courtyard, and the ropes and other accessories, as outlined in Numbers 4:24-28. The Gershonites were given two carts and four oxen to aid in their duties, as mentioned in Numbers 7:7: "He gave two carts and four oxen to the Gershonites, as their service required."

The Gershonites' work was vital for the protection and privacy of the sacred space, ensuring that the Tabernacle was properly enclosed and shielded from the elements.

In summary, the Kohathites, Merarites, and Gershonites each played a unique and indispensable role in the service of the Tabernacle, reflecting the organized and divinely appointed structure of worship in ancient Israel. Their duties highlight the importance of reverence, order, and dedication in the service of God.