The Korathites, also known as the Korahites, are a significant Levitical family mentioned in the Old Testament. They are descendants of Korah, a son of Izhar, who was a son of Kohath, the second son of Levi (Exodus 6:18, 21). The Korathites are primarily recognized for their role in the service of the tabernacle and later the temple, as well as their contributions to the musical and liturgical traditions of Israel.

Ancestry and Rebellion

Korah, the progenitor of the Korathites, is most famously known for his rebellion against Moses and Aaron, as recorded in Numbers 16. Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and 250 other leaders, challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron, claiming that the entire congregation was holy and questioning why Moses and Aaron set themselves above the assembly. The Lord judged Korah and his followers by causing the earth to open and swallow them, while fire consumed the 250 men offering incense (Numbers 16:31-35). Despite this rebellion, the line of Korah did not perish entirely, as noted in Numbers 26:11: "However, the line of Korah did not die out."

Role in Worship and Service

The Korathites were assigned specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple. As part of the Kohathite division of the Levites, they were responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects. Numbers 4:4-15 details their duties, which included carrying the ark, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils during the Israelites' journeys. These tasks required a high level of sanctity and reverence, underscoring the Korathites' important role in maintaining the holiness of Israel's worship.

Musical Contributions

The Korathites are also noted for their contributions to the musical and liturgical life of Israel. Several psalms are attributed to the sons of Korah, indicating their involvement in temple worship and music. These psalms, including Psalms 42, 44-49, 84, 85, 87, and 88, reflect a deep spiritual insight and a profound sense of devotion. They cover themes such as longing for God, the beauty of worship, and the sovereignty of God over all nations. The Korathites' role in music is further emphasized in 1 Chronicles 6:31-38, where they are listed among the temple musicians appointed by David.

Legacy

Despite the infamous rebellion of their ancestor, the Korathites are remembered for their faithful service and significant contributions to Israel's worship practices. Their legacy is preserved in the psalms that continue to inspire and guide worshippers in their spiritual journey. The account of the Korathites serves as a testament to God's grace and redemption, demonstrating that even those with a troubled past can be used for His glory and purposes.KORATHITES

ko'-rath-its: In the King James Version for "Korabites," Numbers 26:58.

See KORAH, 4.

Korathites (1 Occurrence)
...KORATHITES. ko'-rath-its: In the King James Version for "Korabites," Numbers
26:58. See KORAH, 4. Multi-Version Concordance Korathites (1 Occurrence). ...
/k/korathites.htm - 7k

Korathite (1 Occurrence)
... of the Levites: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family
of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites. ...
/k/korathite.htm - 6k

Korazin (2 Occurrences)

/k/korazin.htm - 7k

Begat (112 Occurrences)
... of the Levites: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family
of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites. ...
/b/begat.htm - 31k

Levite (43 Occurrences)
... of the Levites: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family
of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites. ...
/l/levite.htm - 26k

Levites (267 Occurrences)
... of the Levites: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family
of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites. ...
/l/levites.htm - 72k

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