### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kᵉhunnâh**, represented by `{{H3550}}`, defines the sacred role of the **priesthood** or **priest's office**. Derived from the root `{{H3547}}` **kâhan**, it appears **14 times** across **12 unique verses**. The term designates the specific duties, rights, and responsibilities conferred upon Aaron and his descendants to mediate in religious services.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H3550}}` is established as a divinely ordained institution. It is given to Aaron and his sons as a "perpetual statute" [[Exodus 29:9]]. This office is described as a "service of gift" from God, with its duties pertaining to "every thing of the altar, and within the vail" [[Numbers 18:7]]. For the tribe of Levi, the **priesthood** of the LORD serves as their unique **inheritance** `{{H5159}}` in place of land [[Joshua 18:7]]. The gravity of this role is underscored by the consequences for defiling the "covenant of the **priesthood**" [[Nehemiah 13:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the priesthood's function and significance:
* `{{H3547}}` **kâhan** (to officiate as a priest): As the root verb, this word signifies the act of ministering, for which Aaron and his sons were anointed and consecrated [[Exodus 40:15]].
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (covenant): This term is explicitly linked to the priesthood, establishing it as a "covenant of an everlasting **priesthood**" [[Numbers 25:13]] and a sacred trust that could be defiled [[Nehemiah 13:29]].
* `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** (inheritance): This highlights the unique provision for the Levites. While other tribes received land, "the **priesthood** of the LORD is their **inheritance**" [[Joshua 18:7]].
* `{{H1351}}` **gâʼal** (to soil or desecrate): This word is used to describe the state of those who were "as polluted, put from the **priesthood**" because they could not prove their genealogy ([[Ezra 2:62]], [[Nehemiah 7:64]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3550}}` is evident in several key concepts:
* **A Divine and Perpetual Appointment:** The priesthood is not a human invention but an office established by God as an "everlasting **priesthood**" [[Exodus 40:15]] and a "perpetual statute" [[Exodus 29:9]].
* **A Sacred Inheritance and Gift:** The office is described as a "service of gift" bestowed by God upon Aaron and his sons [[Numbers 18:7]]. For the Levites, the priesthood itself is their **inheritance** `{{H5159}}` from the Lord [[Joshua 18:7]].
* **A Position of Purity and Accountability:** Holding the office required genealogical purity, and those found lacking were put from the **priesthood** [[Ezra 2:62]]. Priests were to bear the "iniquity of your **priesthood**" [[Numbers 18:1]], showing their deep accountability before God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3550}}` represents far more than a mere occupation. It is a divinely established, covenant-bound office that serves as a sacred **inheritance**. It carries immense responsibility, demanding purity and faithfulness from those called to serve. The term **kᵉhunnâh** encapsulates the entire framework of the Aaronic priestly ministry, its perpetual nature, and its central role in Israel's relationship with God.
TRV