Topical Encyclopedia Kohath is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, known primarily as the grandfather of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. He is one of the sons of Levi, making him a member of the Levitical tribe, which was set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle and, later, the Temple. Kohath's lineage is crucial in the biblical narrative, as it leads to the establishment of the priesthood through his descendants.Genealogy and Family Kohath was the second son of Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah. Levi had three sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari (Genesis 46:11). Kohath's own sons were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel (Exodus 6:18). Amram, Kohath's son, married Jochebed, who was also a descendant of Levi, and they became the parents of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam (Exodus 6:20). Role and Duties The Kohathites, as descendants of Kohath, were assigned specific duties related to the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the desert. According to Numbers 4:4-15, the Kohathites were responsible for the most sacred aspects of the Tabernacle. They were tasked with carrying 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 this would result in death (Numbers 4:15). Significance in the Priesthood Kohath's lineage is particularly significant because it includes Aaron, the first high priest of Israel, and his descendants, who continued the priestly line. This priestly lineage is emphasized in the Bible, highlighting the importance of the Kohathites in maintaining the religious and spiritual life of the Israelite community. Biblical References Kohath is mentioned in several key genealogical passages, including Genesis 46:11, Exodus 6:16-20, and 1 Chronicles 6:1-2. These references establish his place within the Levitical family and underscore his role as an ancestor of some of the most pivotal figures in Israelite history. Legacy The legacy of Kohath is primarily seen through his descendants, who played crucial roles in the religious leadership of Israel. The Kohathites' responsibilities in the Tabernacle service and their connection to the Aaronic priesthood highlight the enduring influence of Kohath's lineage in the spiritual and communal life of the Israelites. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:58,59These are the families 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. And Kohath begat Amram. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who were the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the sons of Korah in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Who was Moses' father? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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