Kohns

Kohns is a surname of Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It is believed to be a patronymic derived from the given name "Kohn," which is a variant of "Kohen," a Hebrew word meaning priest. In ancient Jewish tradition, Kohanim were descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses, and held a hereditary priestly role in the Temple in Jerusalem. The surname Kohns, therefore, indicates a lineage tracing back to this priestly caste.

The surname is prevalent in many countries with historical Jewish populations, including Germany, Austria, Poland, and the United States. Variations of the name, such as Cohn, Kahn, and Cohen, are also common and share the same etymological roots. Over centuries, as Jewish communities migrated, the Kohns surname spread geographically.

Individuals bearing the Kohns surname have contributed to various fields, including academia, arts, and sciences. Like many surnames with religious or occupational origins, Kohns serves as a reminder of historical Jewish social structures and traditions. The name's enduring presence reflects the historical continuity of Jewish people and their cultural heritage.