### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Qŏhâthîy**, represented by `{{H6956}}`, is a patronymic term meaning a **Kohathite**, referring to the descendants of Kehath `{{H6955}}`. It appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses**. This term specifically identifies one of the principal families of the Levites `{{H3881}}`, a tribe set apart for religious service to Israel `{{H3478}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Kohathites** `{{H6956}}` are assigned critical responsibilities related to the Tabernacle and its holy items. They were tasked with bearing `{{H5375}}` the sanctuary `{{H4720}}` as Israel journeyed [[Numbers 10:21]]. Their duties included all service `{{H5647}}` within the tabernacle of the congregation `{{H168}}` [[Numbers 4:37]]. The **Kohathites** also played a key role in worship, standing up `{{H6965}}` to praise `{{H1984}}` the LORD `{{H3068}}` with a loud `{{H1419}}` voice `{{H6963}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:19]]. Specific responsibilities included overseeing the preparation `{{H3559}}` of the shewbread `{{H3899}}` for every sabbath `{{H7676}}` [[1 Chronicles 9:32]] and serving as overseers `{{H5329}}` skilled `{{H995}}` in musical instruments `{{H7892}}` during the restoration of the temple [[2 Chronicles 34:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The identity of the **Kohathites** `{{H6956}}` is defined by their lineage within the tribe of Levi:
* `{{H6955}}` **Qᵉhâth** (Kohath): The direct ancestor of the Kohathites. He was a son `{{H1121}}` of Levi `{{H3878}}` [[Genesis 46:11]], and the Kohathite families, including the Amramites `{{H6020}}`, Izeharites `{{H3325}}`, Hebronites `{{H2276}}`, and Uzzielites `{{H5817}}`, are traced back to him [[Numbers 3:27]].
* `{{H3878}}` **Lêvîy** (Levi): The patriarch of the entire tribe. The Kohathites, as one of his family lines, were part of the Levitical calling to minister before the LORD.
* `{{H1649}}` **Gêrᵉshunnîy** (Gershonite): Descendants of Kohath's brother, Gershon `{{H1648}}`. The Gershonites are frequently listed alongside the Kohathites, defining the structure of the Levitical families [[Numbers 26:57]].
* `{{H4847}}` **Mᵉrârîy** (Merari): The third son of Levi. The descendants of Merari, along with the Gershonites and Kohathites, formed the three major divisions of the Levites `{{H3881}}` [[Numbers 26:57]].
### Theological Significance
The role of the **Kohathites** `{{H6956}}` underscores several significant theological themes:
* **Sacred Stewardship:** The Kohathites were entrusted with the most sacred mobile items of worship, bearing `{{H5375}}` the sanctuary `{{H4720}}` [[Numbers 10:21]]. The gravity of their role is emphasized by the command not to cut off `{{H3772}}` their tribe `{{H7626}}` from among the Levites `{{H3881}}` [[Numbers 4:18]]. Their service was performed according to the explicit commandment `{{H6310}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 4:37]].
* **Leadership in Worship and Music:** Their duties went beyond physical labor to spiritual leadership. Members of the Kohathite line, such as Heman `{{H1968}}`, were appointed as singers `{{H7891}}` [[1 Chronicles 6:33]]. They led the congregation in praise `{{H1984}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:19]] and were appointed as overseers `{{H5329}}` because of their skill `{{H995}}` with musical instruments `{{H3627}}` [[2 Chronicles 34:12]].
* **Divine Allotment and Inheritance:** As Levites, the Kohathites did not receive a tribal land inheritance. Instead, their provision came through divinely appointed lots `{{H1486}}`. The priestly families of the Kohathites, the children `{{H1121}}` of Aaron `{{H175}}`, were allotted thirteen `{{H7969}}` `{{H6240}}` cities `{{H5892}}` from the tribes of Judah `{{H3063}}`, Simeon `{{H8099}}`, and Benjamin `{{H1144}}` [[Joshua 21:4]]. Their dwelling places `{{H4186}}` and castles `{{H2918}}` were determined by God's lot [[1 Chronicles 6:54]].
### Summary
In summary, the term **Qŏhâthîy** `{{H6956}}` identifies the descendants of Kohath `{{H6955}}`, a pivotal family within the tribe of Levi. They were not merely a genealogical listing but a group divinely commissioned for crucial sacred tasks. From bearing the sanctuary `{{H4720}}` and preparing the shewbread `{{H3899}}` to leading Israel in musical praise `{{H1984}}`, the Kohathites exemplify a life of dedicated service. Their story illustrates the biblical principle of a people set apart for holy work, with their identity, duties, and inheritance all flowing from divine appointment.
TRV