Topical Encyclopedia Kohath is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known as one of the three sons of Levi, the third son of Jacob and Leah. Kohath's lineage is crucial in the history of Israel, particularly in the establishment and service of the Levitical priesthood. His descendants played a vital role in the religious and ceremonial life of the Israelites.Genealogy and Family Kohath was born to Levi, making him a grandson of Jacob, also known as Israel. The sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel (Exodus 6:18). Through Amram, Kohath became the grandfather of two of the most prominent figures in the Bible: Moses and Aaron. This lineage is significant as it establishes the priestly and prophetic leadership of Israel, with Aaron becoming the first high priest and Moses serving as the leader and lawgiver. 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 wilderness. According to Numbers 4:4-15, the Kohathites were responsible for the most sacred aspects of the tabernacle. Their duties included the care and transportation of the ark of the covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils. These tasks were of utmost importance, as they involved handling the most holy objects, which were central to the worship and religious practices of the Israelites. The Kohathites were not given carts or oxen for transportation, unlike the other Levitical families, the Gershonites and Merarites, because they were to carry the holy items on their shoulders (Numbers 7:9). This underscores the sanctity and reverence associated with their responsibilities. Inheritance and Cities In the division of the Promised Land, the Kohathites were allotted cities within the territories of Ephraim, Dan, and half of Manasseh (Joshua 21:5). These cities served as their dwelling places and were strategically located to facilitate their service in the tabernacle and later the temple in Jerusalem. Significance in Israel's History The Kohathites' role in the religious life of Israel highlights the importance of the Levitical priesthood and the centrality of worship in the community. Their responsibilities in handling the sacred objects of the tabernacle underscore the holiness and reverence required in approaching God. The lineage of Kohath, through Amram, also emphasizes the divine selection of leaders and priests who would guide and intercede for the people of Israel. Kohath's legacy is thus intertwined with the spiritual leadership and religious practices of the Israelites, marking him as a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative. His descendants' faithful service in the tabernacle and later in the temple reflects the enduring covenant between God and His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:11And the sons of Levi; Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 6:16 Strong's Hebrew 6955. Qehath -- a son of Levi... Definition: Kohath. Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition a son of Levi NASB Word Usage Kohath (31), Kohath's (1). Kohath. From ... /hebrew/6955.htm - 5k Library The Testament of Levi Concerning the Priesthood and Arrogance. Doubtful Fragments on the Pentateuch. Princely Service. Jewish Chronology. Chapter xlvi Against Jovinianus. 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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