Numbers 3:27
To Kohath belonged the clan of the Amramites and the clan of the Izharites and the clan of the Hebronites and the clan of the Uzzielites; these are the clans of the Kohathites.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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While the verse simply lists the descendants of Kohath, it implicitly highlights his family's immense significance. This clan produced not only Aaron and Moses, the foundational figures of the priesthood and prophecy, but also bore the primary responsibility for carrying the most sacred items of the Tabernacle.
This passage is part of a census of the Levites, detailing the specific family lines descended from Levi's sons. These Kohathite clans, including the Amramites (from whom Moses and Aaron came), are being listed to define their roles and responsibilities in serving at the Tabernacle. The context establishes that these Kohathites, due to their lineage and privileged position, were entrusted with the most sacred furnishings of the sanctuary.
This verse names the four key families descended from Kohath. Why were these specific families so significant in the Tabernacle's service?
Numbers 3:27 identifies the four families that sprang from Kohath: the Amramites, Izharites, Hebronites, and Uzzielites. These weren't just any families; they were the direct descendants of Kohath, one of Levi's sons. This lineage held a special place because it included Moses, Aaron, and ultimately, all the priests. Their role was crucial, as they were entrusted with the most sacred items of the Tabernacle, like the Ark and the altars.
The Kohathites were given the 'most holy things.' What does this weighty responsibility tell us about God's expectations for His servants?
The families listed in Numbers 3:27, particularly the Amramites (from whom Moses and Aaron came), were given the primary charge of safeguarding the most sacred objects in the Tabernacle. This included the Ark of the Covenant, the altars, and the vessels used in worship. This wasn't a task for just anyone; it demanded meticulous care, reverence, and absolute obedience. God entrusted these precious items to the Kohathites, underscoring the profound privilege and solemn duty that came with serving Him in His dwelling place.
Understand the original words
mishpachah · Hebrew Noun
A group or family unit tracing descent from a common ancestor. In Israel, this structure was vital for maintaining tribal identity, inheritance, and organized service to the Lord.
This passage details the organizational structure of the Kohathites, a major division within the tribe of Levi. Their prominent role, stemming from their direct lineage to Moses and Aaron, meant they were entrusted with the most sacred duties and had a significant presence in both the wilderness Tabernacle and later in the Promised Land.
c. 1446 BC
The Exodus from Egypt
After generations of slavery, the Israelites are liberated from Egypt by God's mighty hand.
c. 1446 BC
Giving of the Law at Sinai
God establishes His covenant with Israel at Mount Sinai, giving them the Law and instructions for the Tabernacle.
c. 1446 BC
Divine Appointment of Levites
God designates the tribe of Levi to serve Him and care for the Tabernacle, replacing the firstborn in their service.
c. 1446 BC— this verse
Census and Organization of Levites
The Levites are numbered by families, and their specific duties and placements around the Tabernacle are defined.
This passage lists the same four clans that descended from Kohath, directly linking these family lines to Kohath himself.
Numbers 4:4This verse highlights the specific responsibility given to the Kohathites: to carry the most sacred items of the tabernacle, underscoring their significant role among the Levites.
1 Chronicles 6:16-22This passage reiterates the lineage of the Kohathites and their descendants, emphasizing their place within the broader Levitical service and even mentioning the family of Samuel, a significant figure.
Joshua 21:4-5This shows the fulfillment of the promise of cities for the Levites, specifically mentioning that cities were given to the descendants of Kohath, demonstrating their continued importance and allocated place in the land.
pooleNumbers 3:27: "And of Kohath was the family of the Amramites, and the family of the Izeharites, and the family of the Hebronites, and the family of the Uzzielites: these are the families of the Kohathites."
This family had many privileges above the others; of that were Moses and Aaron, and all the priests; they had the chief place about the tabernacle, and the care of the most holy things here below, Numbers 3:31 ; and in the land of Canaan they had twenty-three cities, which were almost as man…
gillNumbers 3:27: "And of Kohath was the family of the Amramites, and the family of the Izeharites, and the family of the Hebronites, and the family of the Uzzielites: these are the families of the Kohathites."
And of Kohath was the family of the Amramites,.... So called from Amram, the first son of Kohath, and father of Aaron and Moses; so that Moses and Aaron, and their children, are included in this family: and the family of Izeharites; of which family was Korah, Numbers 16:1, and the family of…
While the verse simply lists the descendants of Kohath, it implicitly highlights his family's immense significance. This clan produced not only Aaron and Moses, the foundational figures of the priesthood and prophecy, but also bore the primary responsibility for carrying the most sacred items of the Tabernacle.
This passage is part of a census of the Levites, detailing the specific family lines descended from Levi's sons. These Kohathite clans, including the Amramites (from whom Moses and Aaron came), are being listed to define their roles and responsibilities in serving at the Tabernacle. The context establishes that these Kohathites, due to their lineage and privileged position, were entrusted with the most sacred furnishings of the sanctuary.
This passage is part of a census of the Levites, detailing the specific family lines descended from Levi's sons. These Kohathite clans, including the Amramites (from whom Moses and Aaron came), are being listed to define their roles and responsibilities in serving at the Tabernacle. The context establishes that these Kohathites, due to their lineage and privileged position, were entrusted with the most sacred furnishings of the sanctuary.
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c. 1406 BC
Entry into the Promised Land
Following 40 years of wandering, the Israelites cross the Jordan River to begin conquering and settling Canaan.
c. 1400-1350 BC
Distribution of Cities to Levites
As the land is settled, specific cities are allocated to the Levites, including 23 cities for the Kohathites.
"To Kohath belonged the clan of the Amramites and the clan of the Izharites and the clan of the Hebronites and the clan of the Uzzielites; these are the clans of the Kohathites." — While the verse simply lists the descendants of Kohath, it implicitly highlights his family's immense significance. This clan produced not only Aaron and Moses, the foundational figures of the priest…
