from an unused root meaning to ally oneself; allied; Kehath, an Israelite; Kohath.
Transliteration:Qᵉhâth
Pronunciation:keh-hawth'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun קְהָת (Qᵉhâth), Strong's number `{{H6955}}`, is derived from an unused root meaning "to ally oneself" or "to join together." Thus, the name itself carries the semantic weight of being "allied" or "joined." As a personal name, it designates an individual who embodies this concept, perhaps suggesting a foundational role in a union or covenant. While the root is no longer active in other forms, its meaning provides significant insight into the character and destiny of the individual bearing the name.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Kohath (Qᵉhâth) is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, primarily known as one of the three sons of Levi, alongside Gershon and Merari ([[Genesis 46:11]], [[Exodus 6:16]], [[Numbers 3:17]]). His descendants, the Kohathites, formed a major clan within the tribe of Levi and were assigned a unique and highly sacred role in the service of the Tabernacle during Israel's wilderness wanderings and beyond.
Their specific duty was to transport the most holy articles of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, the Altars, and the various holy vessels, once they had been covered by Aaron and his sons ([[Numbers 3:31]], [[Numbers 4:1-15]]). This task was of paramount importance and required extreme care, as they were forbidden from touching the holy objects directly or looking at them uncovered, lest they die ([[Numbers 4:15]], [[Numbers 4:20]]). This highlights the gravity and sanctity of the divine presence they ministered to.
Kohath's lineage is also significant as he was the grandfather of Moses and Aaron through his son Amram ([[Exodus 6:18]], [[Numbers 3:19]]). This makes him an ancestor of the Aaronic priesthood, further cementing his foundational importance within Israel's religious structure. The Kohathites were also allotted specific cities among the Levites in the land of Canaan ([[Joshua 21:4-5]], [[1 Chronicles 6:54-61]]). The numerous occurrences of his name and that of his descendants (over 30 times in Exodus, Numbers, and 1 Chronicles) underscore his pivotal role as a patriarch of a key Levitical clan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core meaning of "alliance" or "joining" in `{{H6955}}` resonates with several key biblical concepts:
* **`{{H3878}}` Levi:** Kohath's father, whose entire tribe was set apart for special service to God. The name "Kohath" might reflect the "joining" of this specific lineage to the sacred duties of the Levites.
* **`{{H1285}}` Bᵉrîth (ברית):** The Hebrew word for "covenant," signifying a solemn agreement or alliance, often between God and humanity. The Kohathites' role in carrying the Ark of the Covenant, the physical embodiment of God's alliance with Israel, powerfully illustrates the root meaning of their patriarch's name.
* **`{{H6951}}` Qâhâl (קהל):** While not etymologically identical, the sound similarity and the concept of "assembly" or "congregation" (from which the word for "church" in Greek, ἐκκλησία, is derived) can be seen as a collective "joining together." The Kohathites served within this assembled community, facilitating its worship.
* **`{{H4847}}` Merari & `{{H1732}}` Gershon:** Kohath's brothers, heads of the other major Levitical clans. Each had distinct, though equally vital, responsibilities in the Tabernacle service, demonstrating a divinely ordered "alliance" of functions.
* **Holiness and Consecration:** The very nature of the Kohathites' duties—handling the most holy objects—links their name to the concept of being "set apart" or "allied" with the sacred.
### Theological Significance
The name "Kohath" and the role of the Kohathites carry profound theological significance:
* **Divine Proximity and Holiness:** The Kohathites were uniquely "allied" with the most sacred aspects of God's presence. Their service in transporting the Ark and other holy vessels placed them in unparalleled proximity to the divine, underscoring the absolute holiness of God and the reverence required in His presence. Their very name, "allied," points to this intimate, yet dangerous, relationship.
* **Order and Obedience:** The meticulous instructions given for the Kohathites' duties (e.g., specific coverings, carrying by poles, avoidance of direct touch) highlight God's precise order in worship and the absolute necessity of obedience to divine commands. Their service was a testament to the fact that God's work must be done according to His prescribed way.
* **Mediation and Access:** While not priests, the Kohathites played a crucial role in mediating Israel's relationship with God by facilitating the movement of the instruments of atonement and revelation. Their careful handling ensured the proper functioning of the Tabernacle system, which provided a means for Israel to approach a holy God.
* **Ancestry of Priesthood:** As the direct ancestor of Aaron, Kohath's name is inextricably linked to the institution of the priesthood. This connection emphasizes the divine selection and consecration of a specific lineage for sacred service, an "alliance" with God for the benefit of all Israel.
* **Covenantal Relationship:** The root meaning of "allied" beautifully encapsulates Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. Just as the Kohathites were "allied" with the physical symbols of the covenant, the entire nation was called to be "allied" with God through obedience and faithfulness to His covenant.
### Summary
`{{H6955}}`, קְהָת (Qᵉhâth), is a proper noun meaning "allied" or "joined together," derived from an unused root. Kohath was a pivotal figure in Israel's history, being a son of Levi and the patriarch of the Kohathites, a Levitical clan entrusted with the exceedingly sacred duty of transporting the holiest objects of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant. This unique responsibility underscored their special "alliance" with God and their critical function in maintaining the sanctity and order of divine worship. The name and the responsibilities of the Kohathites collectively emphasize themes of divine order, absolute holiness, the necessity of obedience, the nature of covenantal relationship, and the profound significance of being "allied" with the living God.
TRV