from כָּהַן; priesthood; priesthood, priest's office.
Transliteration:kᵉhunnâh
Pronunciation:keh-hoon-naw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H3550}}` (kᵉhunnâh) denotes the "priesthood" or "priest's office." It is derived from the verbal root `{{H3548}}` (kâhan), meaning "to act as a priest" or "to minister as a priest." This etymological connection immediately establishes `{{H3550}}` as referring not merely to a collection of individuals, but to the *function*, *institution*, and *status* associated with priestly service. Its semantic range is thus tightly bound to the sacred duties, responsibilities, and privileges inherent in the divinely appointed office of mediator and minister within Israel's cultic system. It encompasses the entire body of priestly duties, the hereditary line, and the sacred authority vested in those who served before Yahweh.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H3550}}` appears predominantly in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, where the institution of the Aaronic priesthood is detailed. Its first significant appearance is in [[Exodus 29:9]], where God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons, stating, "And the priesthood (kᵉhunnâh) shall be theirs for a perpetual statute." This verse establishes the hereditary nature and enduring character of the Aaronic line.
In [[Exodus 40:15]], the anointing of Aaron's sons is explicitly for "a perpetual priesthood (kᵉhunnâh) throughout their generations," underscoring its foundational and lasting role in Israel's worship. The book of Numbers frequently uses `{{H3550}}` to define the boundaries and privileges of this office. For instance, [[Numbers 3:10]] states, "You shall appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall keep their priesthood (kᵉhunnâh)." This highlights the specific and exclusive nature of their service, distinguishing them from the Levites who assisted them.
[[Numbers 16:10]] and [[Numbers 18:7]] further emphasize the divine appointment and the solemn responsibility of the priesthood, warning against unauthorized access to its duties. The latter verse, "Therefore you and your sons with you shall attend to your priesthood (kᵉhunnâh) for everything concerning the altar and inside the veil," clearly delineates the scope of their sacred functions, which included offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the sanctuary, and discerning God's will (e.g., via the Urim and Thummim). The `{{H3550}}` was thus integral to the very fabric of Israel's covenant relationship with God, serving as the divinely ordained means of access and atonement.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H3550}}` is inextricably linked to other key terms in the Hebrew Bible:
* `{{H3548}}` (kâhan): The verbal root, meaning "to act as a priest." This verb describes the *action* of performing priestly duties, whereas `{{H3550}}` refers to the *office* or *institution* itself.
* `{{H3549}}` (kôhēn): The noun for "priest." This term refers to the *person* holding the office of `{{H3550}}`. The relationship is clear: the `{{H3549}}` performs the duties of the `{{H3550}}`.
* Concepts of *holiness* (qodesh), *service* (ʿābad), *sacrifice* (zevach), and *atonement* (kāphar) are all directly tied to the function of the `{{H3550}}`. The priesthood was the primary means by which Israel's ritual purity was maintained and reconciliation with God achieved.
* In the New Testament, while the Aaronic `{{H3550}}` is fulfilled and superseded, the concept of priesthood continues. The Greek term `{{G2406}}` (hiereus) refers to "priest," and `{{G2405}}` (hierateia) to "priesthood," often used in reference to Christ's unique high priesthood (e.g., [[Hebrews 7:11]]) and the "priesthood of believers" ([[1 Peter 2:5]], [[1 Peter 2:9]]). This demonstrates a theological continuity, where the Old Testament institution prefigured a greater spiritual reality.
### Theological Significance
The `{{H3550}}` held profound theological significance for ancient Israel. It was the divinely established bridge between a holy God and His covenant people.
1. **Mediation and Access:** The priesthood provided the sole authorized means for Israel to approach God in worship and sacrifice. Through the priests, sins were atoned for, and blessings were pronounced. This highlights God's holiness and the necessity of a mediator for sinful humanity to draw near.
2. **Representation:** The priests represented the people before God, carrying their names on their garments ([[Exodus 28:12]], [[Exodus 28:29]]), and represented God to the people, teaching His laws ([[Leviticus 10:11]]) and pronouncing His blessing ([[Numbers 6:22-27]]).
3. **Holiness and Separation:** The `{{H3550}}` underscored the principle of holiness. Priests were set apart, consecrated, and subject to strict regulations concerning purity and conduct, reflecting the holiness of the God they served.
4. **Typology of Christ:** The Old Testament `{{H3550}}` serves as a powerful type of the ultimate High Priesthood of Jesus Christ. While the Aaronic priesthood was temporary, hereditary, and required repeated sacrifices, Christ's priesthood, described in the book of Hebrews, is eternal, non-hereditary, and offered a single, perfect sacrifice for all time ([[Hebrews 7:23-27]]). He perfectly fulfills the mediatorial, atoning, and intercessory functions of the Old Testament priesthood.
5. **Priesthood of Believers:** In the New Covenant, the concept of priesthood expands to include all believers, who are called a "royal priesthood" ([[1 Peter 2:9]]) to offer "spiritual sacrifices" ([[1 Peter 2:5]]). This does not negate Christ's unique high priesthood but signifies that all who are in Christ have direct access to God and are called to minister to Him and to the world.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3550}}` (kᵉhunnâh) signifies the "priesthood" or "priest's office," a foundational institution in ancient Israel's worship and covenant life. Derived from the verb "to act as a priest," it refers to the sacred function, divine appointment, and hereditary lineage of the Aaronic priests. Its occurrences primarily in the Pentateuch delineate the exclusive duties of the priests in mediating between God and Israel, offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle/temple. The `{{H3550}}` thus encapsulates the concepts of mediation, atonement, and holiness, serving as a vital component of Israel's relationship with Yahweh. Theologically, it stands as a significant precursor and type, pointing forward to the perfect and eternal High Priesthood of Jesus Christ, and ultimately, to the spiritual priesthood of all believers in the New Covenant.
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