Numbers 3:19
And the sons of Kohath by their families; Amram, and Izehar, Hebron, and Uzziel.
Original Language Analysis
וּבְנֵ֥י
And the sons
H1121
וּבְנֵ֥י
And the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֑ם
by their families
H4940
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֑ם
by their families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
3 of 7
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
Historical Context
The Kohathites descended from Levi's second son Kohath (Exodus 6:18). They camped on the south side of the tabernacle (Numbers 3:29) and transported the holiest items, though they could not touch or look upon them (Numbers 4:15, 20) without dying, requiring priests to cover these items first.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Kohathites' specially sacred responsibility illustrate that even among those called to service, God assigns different levels of responsibility?
- What does this teach us about recognizing that roles in God's kingdom vary in responsibility and honor while all remain service to God?
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Analysis & Commentary
The listing of Kohath's sons 'by their families' establishes the genealogical line that included both Aaron (the priestly line) and Moses (the prophetic/civil leader), showing God's sovereign distribution of offices within the same extended family. The Kohathites received the most sacred responsibility—transporting the holy furnishings (ark, table, lampstand, altars)—demonstrating that even among Levites, God distinguished levels of service and responsibility according to His purposes.