Who Was Kore in the Bible?
Kore: A Levite in the Time of Egypt and the Wilderness
Kore is a biblical figure who belonged to the tribe of Levi, living during the period of Egypt and the Wilderness. He is first mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:19, where he is identified as the son of Ebiasaph and the brother of Assir. Kore is also referred to as a Korahite in 1 Chronicles 26:19 and 2 Chronicles 20:19, highlighting his connection to the Levitical family descended from Korah.
The Tribe of Levi
The tribe of Levi was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, set apart for priestly duties and service in the tabernacle, and later, the temple. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites did not receive a portion of land but were given cities to dwell in and supported by tithes and offerings from the other tribes.
Kore’s Lineage and Role
Kore’s lineage as a descendant of Levi and a Korahite signifies his role within the priestly system of Israel. The Korahites were responsible for various aspects of worship and service in the tabernacle and temple, including maintaining sacred rituals and ceremonies.
1 Chronicles 9:19
“Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his kinsmen of his father’s house, the Korahites, were in charge of the work of the service, keepers of the thresholds of the tent; their fathers had been in charge of the camp of the Lord, keepers of the entrance.”
Kore’s presence in the genealogies of the Bible underscores the importance of the priesthood and the worship of God in the Old Testament. The Levites, including Kore, were entrusted with maintaining the sacred rituals and ceremonies essential for the spiritual life of Israel.
Kore: A Faithful Servant During the Divided Monarchy
Kore is a figure mentioned in 2 Chronicles 31:14 during the time of the Divided Monarchy. Although the Bible provides limited information about Kore, his role in the reforms of King Hezekiah of Judah highlights the significance of faithful service in the worship and administration of the temple. Kore, the son of Imnah, is specifically mentioned in the context of distributing provisions to the priests and Levites.
Biblical Context of Kore
2 Chronicles 31:14
“Kore son of Imnah the Levite, keeper of the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings given to God, distributing the contributions made to the Lord and also the consecrated gifts.”
Kore lived during the reign of King Hezekiah, a time marked by significant religious reforms aimed at restoring proper worship in the temple. Hezekiah’s reforms included the reinstitution of the Passover, the destruction of pagan idols, and the reestablishment of the priestly and Levitical duties.
Role and Responsibilities
Kore’s role was crucial in ensuring that the priests and Levites received the resources they needed to perform their duties. As the keeper of the East Gate and in charge of the freewill offerings, Kore was responsible for managing and distributing the contributions and consecrated gifts brought by the people. This position required trustworthiness, organizational skills, and a deep commitment to the worship of God.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Faithfulness in Service
Kore’s role as a Levite emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in service to God. The Levites were dedicated to maintaining the worship practices commanded by God, demonstrating a commitment that modern Christians can emulate. Serving God with dedication and integrity, regardless of the task, is a valuable lesson for believers today.
1 Peter 4:10
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
Importance of Worship
The role of Kore and the Levites highlights the centrality of worship in the life of God’s people. Worship was not just a series of rituals but a way to honor God’s presence and holiness. Modern Christians are reminded to prioritize worship, ensuring that their hearts and actions reflect reverence and adoration for God.
John 4:24
“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Commitment to God’s Commands
Kore’s lineage and duties as a Levite demonstrate the importance of adhering to God’s commands. The detailed instructions given to the Levites regarding worship and service show that God values order and obedience. Christians today are called to follow God’s Word diligently, recognizing that obedience leads to spiritual growth and blessings.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13
“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today for your good?”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Provision for Worship
The appointment of Kore and his fellow Levites to specific roles in worship highlights God’s provision for a structured and meaningful relationship with Him. God’s detailed instructions for worship show His desire to dwell among His people and to be worshiped in a manner that reflects His holiness.
Psalm 27:4
“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”
God’s Faithfulness to His People
Kore’s inclusion in the genealogies signifies God’s faithfulness in preserving a chosen people for His service and worship. This reflects God’s unchanging nature and His commitment to His promises. Christians can trust in God’s faithfulness, knowing that He is always present and working in their lives.
Lamentations 3:22-23
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Priesthood
Kore’s role as a Levitical priest foreshadows the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the perfect High Priest who offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, fulfilling all the requirements of the Levitical priesthood and establishing a new covenant.
Hebrews 4:14-15
“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”
Worship Through Christ
The worship practices maintained by Kore and the Levites are ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection provide the means for true worship, allowing believers to approach God with confidence and gratitude.
Hebrews 10:19-22
“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Conclusion
Kore, a Levite mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 2 Chronicles, plays a significant role in the worship and service of God’s people during the time of Egypt and the Wilderness. His lineage and duties highlight the importance of faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God’s commands. These lessons are timeless, offering modern Christians a framework for their own service and devotion to God. By understanding Kore’s role and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, believers can deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith with integrity and dedication.
References:
- 1 Chronicles 9:19 – Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his fellow gatekeepers from his family (the Korahites) were responsible for guarding the thresholds of the tent just as their ancestors had been responsible for the camp of the LORD, because they were in charge of the entrance of the tabernacle.
- 1 Chronicles 26:19 – These were the divisions of the gatekeepers who were descendants of Korah and Merari.
- 2 Chronicles 20:19 – Then some Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up and praised the LORD, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.