### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Qᵉhâth**, represented by `{{H6955}}`, identifies **Kohath**, an Israelite. The name comes from an unused root meaning to ally oneself, suggesting a theme of being allied. It appears 32 times across 29 unique verses, primarily establishing his place within the Levitical lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Qᵉhâth** `{{H6955}}` is consistently identified as one of the three sons of **Levi** `{{H3878}}`, alongside Gershon and Merari ([[Genesis 46:11]], [[Exodus 6:16]]). His descendants, the Kohathites, formed one of the principal Levitical families. He fathered four sons: Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel ([[Exodus 6:18]], [[Numbers 3:19]]). The sons of Kohath were assigned the sacred and dangerous task of carrying the most **holy things** `{{H6944}}` of the tabernacle, including the sanctuary and its vessels ([[Numbers 4:4]], [[Numbers 4:15]]). This duty was so consecrated that they were to bear these items upon their **shoulders** `{{H3802}}` and were strictly warned not to **touch** `{{H5060}}` them directly, lest they **die** `{{H4191}}` ([[Numbers 4:15]], [[Numbers 7:9]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several figures and groups are central to understanding the lineage and role of **Qᵉhâth**:
* `{{H3878}}` **Lêvîy** (Levi): As the **father** `{{H1}}` of Kohath, Gershon, and Merari, Levi is the patriarch from whom all Levites descend, establishing the priestly tribe [[Genesis 46:11]].
* `{{H6019}}` **ʻAmrâm** (Amram): The firstborn **son** `{{H1121}}` of Kohath [[Exodus 6:18]]. Through Amram, Kohath's lineage includes Moses and **Aaron** `{{H175}}`, cementing his family's central role in Israel's priesthood and leadership [[Numbers 26:59]].
* `{{H6956}}` **Qŏhâthîy** (Kohathites): This term refers to the **family** `{{H4940}}` and descendants of Kohath. They were a specific division of the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` with distinct responsibilities for the tabernacle [[Numbers 3:27]].
* `{{H7141}}` **Qôrach** (Korah): A grandson of Kohath through his son **Izhar** `{{H3324}}`. Korah is known for leading a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron, an event that originated within the Kohathite clan [[Numbers 16:1]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H6955}}` and his descendants carries significant theological weight, particularly concerning service, lineage, and divine order.
* **Proximity and Peril:** The role of the sons of Kohath in bearing the most **holy things** `{{H6944}}` illustrates the dual nature of drawing near to God: immense privilege and grave responsibility. Their specific duties underscored the sanctity of God's presence and the strict obedience required to serve Him [[Numbers 4:15]].
* **Foundation of the Priesthood:** Kohath is a foundational figure in the Levitical lineage. As the direct ancestor of **Amram** `{{H6019}}`, and thus the grandfather of Aaron and Moses, his line was chosen to carry the priestly authority for Israel [[Numbers 26:58-59]]. The narrative traces the **generations** `{{H8435}}` to establish this divine appointment [[Exodus 6:16]].
* **A Unique Inheritance:** The families of Kohath did not receive a territorial portion like other tribes. Instead, their inheritance consisted of designated **cities** `{{H5892}}` and the sacred **service** `{{H5656}}` of the **sanctuary** `{{H6944}}` ([[Joshua 21:5]], [[Numbers 7:9]]). This highlights a different kind of provision, where closeness to God and His work constitutes their allotment.
### Summary
In summary, **Qᵉhâth** `{{H6955}}` is far more than a name in a genealogical list. He is the progenitor of the Kohathites, a pivotal Levitical clan whose identity was forged by their sacred duties. The legacy of Kohath is defined by the high calling and strict requirements placed upon his descendants: to **bear** `{{H5375}}` the most holy elements of the tabernacle. This role establishes a powerful theme of consecrated service, illustrating the privilege, peril, and unique inheritance tied to serving in God's immediate presence. Through his line, the priesthood of Aaron was established, making Kohath a cornerstone of Israel's religious structure.
TRV