Kohathite

Kohathite refers to a member of the Kohathite clan, one of the Levitical families in the Hebrew Bible. The Kohathites descended from Kohath, a son of Levi, and together with the Gershonites and Merarites formed the three main Levitical divisions. In biblical law and tradition, the Kohathites were associated with duties surrounding the sanctuary and its sacred objects.

In the wilderness period, the Kohathites were responsible for the care and transport of the Tabernacle’s most holy articles. They carried the Ark of the Covenant and other sacred implements, under prescribed conditions that limited direct handling and required coverings and ceremonial supervision by the priests. Their role was distinct from the other Levitical groups, with different duties assigned for moving or maintaining the sanctuary’s furnishings.

Notable figures linked to the Kohathite line include Korah, a descendant who led a well-known rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16). Amram, another Kohathite, was the father of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, making Moses and Aaron members of the Kohathite lineage as well. This genealogical connection places key biblical leaders within the Kohathite clan, even though Aaron’s priesthood was a separate hereditary line.

In later biblical texts, Kohathites appear in genealogies and lists of Levitical families, reflecting their continued presence in temple service and Levitical organization. While the specifics of their duties evolved over time, the designation Kohathite continued to identify members of the Levite subgroup descended from Kohath within Israel’s religious framework.