patronymically from קְהָת; a Kohathite (collectively) or descendants of Kehath; Kohathites.
Transliteration:Qŏhâthîy
Pronunciation:ko-haw-thee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6956}}` קֳהָתִי (Qŏhâthîy) is a patronymic adjective derived from the proper noun `{{H6955}}` קְהָת (Qehath). As a gentilic, it signifies "of Kohath" or "belonging to Kohath." Its primary semantic function is to identify a specific family or clan within the tribe of Levi, namely, the descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi. Thus, it collectively refers to the "Kohathites" or "the sons of Kohath," denoting a distinct lineage and its associated responsibilities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Kohathites feature prominently in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus, Numbers, and Joshua, as well as in the historical books of Chronicles. Kohath himself was a son of Levi and grandson of Jacob ([[Genesis 46:11]], [[Exodus 6:16]]). His descendants formed one of the three main branches of the Levitical tribe, alongside the Gershonites and Merarites, each assigned specific duties in the service of the Tabernacle.
The most significant role of the Kohathites was the transportation and care of the most sacred articles of the Tabernacle. This included the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Menorah, the Altars of Incense and Burnt Offering, and the sacred vessels ([[Numbers 3:31]], [[Numbers 4:4-15]]). A crucial detail of their duty was that they were forbidden to touch these holy objects directly; Aaron and his sons (the priests) had to cover the items before the Kohathites could carry them on poles ([[Numbers 4:15]], [[Numbers 7:9]]). This strict protocol underscored the profound holiness of the objects and the divine requirement for priestly mediation.
The Kohathites were numbered separately for service in the wilderness census ([[Numbers 3:27-28]]). Their assigned cities in the land of Canaan further illustrate their importance in the structured life of Israel ([[Joshua 21:4-5]], [[1 Chronicles 6:54-61]]). Notable individuals from the Kohathite lineage include Moses and Aaron (through Amram, son of Kohath, [[Exodus 6:18-20]]), and later, temple musicians like Heman ([[1 Chronicles 6:33]]). Their continued service is also noted in later reforms, such as those under King Hezekiah ([[2 Chronicles 29:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
* `{{H6955}}` קְהָת (Qehath): The eponymous ancestor from whom the clan derives its name.
* `{{H3878}}` לֵוִי (Levi): The patriarch of the entire tribe from which the Kohathites originate.
* `{{H1596}}` גֵּרְשׁוֹן (Gershon) and `{{H4847}}` מְרָרִי (Merari): The other two primary branches of the Levites, each with distinct but complementary duties in Tabernacle/Temple service.
* מִשְׁמֶרֶת (mishmeret): A term often used to describe the specific "charge" or "duty" assigned to the Kohathites and other Levitical groups.
* אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד (ohel mo'ed): The "Tent of Meeting" or Tabernacle, the central place of worship where the Kohathites performed their sacred duties.
* אֲרוֹן הַבְּרִית (aron habberit): The "Ark of the Covenant," the most holy object entrusted to the Kohathites for transport.
### Theological Significance
The role of the Kohathites carries profound theological significance. Their meticulous instructions for handling the sacred articles underscore God's absolute holiness and His demand for order, reverence, and purity in approaching Him. The prohibition against direct contact with the holy objects, even for those entrusted with their care, highlights the concept of divine transcendence and the necessity of mediation (via the Aaronic priesthood) due to human sinfulness.
Their divinely appointed tasks emphasize the principle of God's sovereign election and specific call to service within His covenant community. The Kohathites were not merely porters; they were integral to the functioning of Israel's worship system, ensuring the proper maintenance and transport of the symbols of God's presence among His people. Their service facilitated Israel's corporate worship and the maintenance of their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh. Furthermore, their lineage and continued duties throughout Israel's history speak to the importance of generational faithfulness and the enduring nature of sacred traditions and divine mandates.
### Summary
The term `{{H6956}}` Qŏhâthîy identifies the descendants of Kohath, a prominent Levitical clan. Their divinely ordained duty was the sacred and perilous task of transporting the most holy objects of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant. This specific responsibility, detailed with strict regulations, vividly illustrates God's demand for holiness, order, and reverence in worship. The Kohathites' service underscores principles of divine appointment, the necessity of priestly mediation in approaching the divine, and the structured nature of Israelite worship, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of God's character and His interaction with His covenant people.
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