Numbers 7:9

But he did not give any to the Kohathites, since they were to carry on their shoulders the holy objects for which they were responsible.

Study Bible

But he did not give any to the Kohathites
The Kohathites were one of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Kohath, the second son of Levi. Their specific role was to care for the most sacred objects of the tabernacle. Unlike the Gershonites and Merarites, who received oxen and carts to transport their assigned parts of the tabernacle, the Kohathites were not given any because their task required a different method of transport. This distinction highlights the unique holiness and sanctity of the items they were responsible for, emphasizing the reverence required in handling sacred objects.

since they were to carry on their shoulders
The Kohathites were tasked with carrying the most sacred items, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altars. These items were to be carried on their shoulders using poles, as prescribed in Exodus 25:14 and Numbers 4:15. This method of transport underscores the sacredness of these objects, as they were not to be treated as common cargo. The act of carrying these items on their shoulders symbolizes the weight of responsibility and the honor of bearing the presence of God.

the holy objects
The holy objects refer to the sacred furnishings and instruments used in the tabernacle worship. These items were consecrated and set apart for divine service, representing God's presence among His people. The holiness of these objects required that they be handled with utmost care and respect, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the call for His people to be holy (Leviticus 19:2).

for which they were responsible
The Kohathites had a divinely appointed responsibility to care for and transport these sacred items. This responsibility was not just a duty but a calling, reflecting the broader biblical principle of stewardship. Each group within the Levites had specific roles, and the Kohathites' role was crucial for maintaining the sanctity and proper function of the tabernacle. This division of labor within the Levites illustrates the importance of each member of the community fulfilling their God-given role, a theme echoed in the New Testament regarding the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received instructions from God regarding the distribution of the offerings from the leaders of Israel.

2. Kohathites
A division of the Levites, descendants of Kohath, who were responsible for carrying the most sacred objects of the tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, containing the Ark of the Covenant and other sacred items.

4. Levites
The tribe set apart for religious duties, including the care and transport of the tabernacle and its furnishings.

5. Offerings of the Leaders
The leaders of Israel brought offerings to the tabernacle, which included oxen and carts for transporting the tabernacle's components.

Teaching Points

Sacred Responsibility
The Kohathites were entrusted with the most sacred objects, emphasizing the importance of reverence and responsibility in serving God.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The specific instructions given to the Kohathites highlight the necessity of following God's commands precisely, especially in matters of worship.

Carrying the Burden
The Kohathites carried the holy things on their shoulders, symbolizing the personal responsibility and dedication required in serving God.

Division of Labor in Ministry
The distribution of tasks among the Levites illustrates the importance of recognizing and respecting different roles within the body of Christ.

Holiness and Proximity to God
The Kohathites' role underscores the concept of holiness and the privilege of being close to God's presence, which requires purity and dedication.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the role of the Kohathites teach us about the importance of reverence and responsibility in our own service to God?

2. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's specific instructions in our daily lives and spiritual practices?

3. In what ways can we carry our "holy burdens" today, and what does this teach us about personal responsibility in our faith journey?

4. How does the division of labor among the Levites inform our understanding of different roles and gifts within the church community?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we approach our service to God with the same holiness and dedication as the Kohathites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle and the roles of the Levites, including the Kohathites.

1 Chronicles 15
This passage describes how David organized the Levites, including the Kohathites, to transport the Ark of the Covenant properly.

Deuteronomy 10:8
This verse highlights the special role of the Levites in carrying the Ark of the Covenant and ministering before the Lord.