Who Was Kohath in the Bible?

Kohath: A Foundational Figure in Levitical Lineage

Kohath, a prominent figure in the Bible, was one of the sons of Levi, who was the third son of Jacob and Leah. Born in Paddan Aram, Kohath’s lineage and his descendants played a crucial role in the religious life of the Israelites. His story and the duties assigned to his descendants reflect the importance of order and reverence in worship as ordained by God.

Kohath’s Family and Lineage

Kohath is first mentioned in Genesis 46:11 as one of the sons of Levi, along with his brothers Gershon and Merari. Kohath had four sons: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel, who became the ancestors of significant families within the tribe of Levi. Notably, from the line of Amram came Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, central figures in the Exodus narrative and the establishment of Israelite worship.

Genesis 46:11

“The sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.”

Duties Assigned to the Kohathites

The Kohathites, as descendants of Kohath, were given specific and sacred responsibilities within the tribe of Levi. They were entrusted with the care and transportation of the most holy items in the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and other items used in worship. This significant role underscored the importance of maintaining the holiness and sanctity of God’s dwelling place among His people.

Numbers 4:4-5

“This is the work of the Kohathites at the tent of meeting: the care of the most holy things. When the camp is to move, Aaron and his sons are to go in and take down the shielding curtain and cover the ark of the covenant law with it.”

The Kohathites were not to touch the sacred items directly. Instead, they were to carry these items using poles inserted through rings on the items, ensuring that the holiness of these objects was preserved. Their tasks were performed under the strict supervision of Aaron and his sons, the priests.

The Kohathites’ Role in the Wilderness

During the Israelites’ wilderness journey, the Kohathites were responsible for the setup and takedown of the tabernacle whenever the Israelites traveled. This was a critical duty as the tabernacle was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God’s presence among His people. The Kohathites’ careful handling of the sacred items ensured that the worship practices were maintained according to God’s instructions.

Numbers 4:15

“After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy furnishings and all the holy articles, and when the camp is ready to move, only then are the Kohathites to come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy things or they will die.”

Cities Allotted to the Kohathites

As part of their inheritance, the Kohathites were assigned cities within the territories of other tribes. This allocation ensured that they had places to live and maintain their families while continuing their sacred duties. These cities provided the Kohathites with a base from which they could serve the wider Israelite community in their religious functions.

Joshua 21:5, 20, 26

“The rest of Kohath’s descendants were allotted ten towns from the clans of half the tribe of Manasseh. The Levite clans of the Kohathites were also given cities, and their pasturelands were taken from the tribe of Ephraim: from the tribe of Dan, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.”

Lessons for the Modern Christian

Reverence for the Sacred

The meticulous care with which the Kohathites handled the sacred items of the tabernacle underscores the importance of reverence for the things of God. Modern Christians are reminded to approach worship and the sacraments with a deep sense of respect and holiness, recognizing the presence of God in these practices.

Faithfulness in Assigned Roles

The Kohathites faithfully carried out the duties assigned to them, regardless of the potential dangers involved. Their example teaches modern believers the importance of faithfully serving in whatever role God has assigned them, knowing that each task, no matter how seemingly small, is significant in God’s eyes.

Importance of Spiritual Heritage

Kohath’s lineage, which includes notable figures like Moses and Aaron, highlights the impact of spiritual heritage. Christians today can draw strength and inspiration from their spiritual forebears, recognizing the importance of passing on faith and dedication to future generations.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Provision and Order

The detailed instructions given to the Kohathites demonstrate God’s provision and order in worship. God’s concern for the proper handling of sacred items reflects His desire for orderly and reverent worship. This attention to detail shows God’s love in providing clear guidelines for His people to follow, ensuring that His presence remains among them.

God’s Holiness

The Kohathites’ duties highlight the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with the utmost respect and purity. This understanding of God’s holiness encourages believers to live lives that honor Him, striving for holiness in their personal conduct and worship practices.

Connection to Jesus Christ

Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law

The roles and responsibilities of the Kohathites point to the fulfillment of the Law in Jesus Christ. Jesus is the ultimate High Priest who perfectly mediates between God and humanity. His life, death, and resurrection fulfill the sacrificial system and the need for a physical tabernacle, as He is the embodiment of God’s presence.

Hebrews 9:11-12

“But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.”

The Priesthood of All Believers

The service of the Kohathites foreshadows the priesthood of all believers in Christ. Through Jesus, all Christians are called to be priests, offering spiritual sacrifices and serving God in various capacities. This calling empowers believers to live lives of service and devotion, knowing that they have direct access to God through Jesus.

1 Peter 2:9

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

Conclusion

Kohath, as a son of Levi and patriarch of the Kohathites, played a significant role in the worship and service of God among the Israelites. The meticulous duties assigned to his descendants highlight the importance of reverence, faithfulness, and holiness in worship. For modern Christians, the lessons from Kohath’s lineage encourage a deeper respect for the sacred, a commitment to faithful service, and an appreciation for spiritual heritage. Through understanding Kohath’s role and responsibilities, believers can draw closer to God, appreciating His provision, and recognizing the fulfillment of these ancient practices in the person and work of Jesus Christ.