Numbers 4:2
Take the sum of the sons of Kohath from among the sons of Levi, after their families, by the house of their fathers,
Original Language Analysis
נָשֹׂ֗א
Take
H5375
נָשֹׂ֗א
Take
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
1 of 11
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
רֹאשׁ֙
the sum
H7218
רֹאשׁ֙
the sum
Strong's:
H7218
Word #:
3 of 11
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
בְּנֵ֣י
of the sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
of the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בְּנֵ֣י
of the sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
of the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
7 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם
after their families
H4940
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם
after their families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
9 of 11
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 were divided into four families: Amramites (Moses and Aaron's line), Izharites, Hebronites, and Uzzielites (Numbers 3:27). Only the Amramites served as priests; other Kohathite families assisted them by transporting sacred objects under strict protocols.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the principle of progressive holiness apply to spiritual maturity?
- What additional qualifications does close service to God require?
- How can we grow in sanctification to serve God more fully?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Taking the sum 'of the sons of Kohath from among the sons of Levi' shows distinction within distinction—the Kohathites were separated from the Levites, who were already separated from Israel. This multi-layered consecration teaches the principle of increasing holiness as one draws nearer to God's presence. The Kohathites handled the most holy objects, requiring special separation. This parallels the New Testament pattern where all believers are priests (1 Peter 2:9), yet some are called to specific service requiring additional qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1-13).