Bible Dictionary
Kohathites
The Kohathites were descendants of Kohath and one of the three main Levitical divisions. They camped south of the tabernacle and carried its most holy vessels, including the ark.
Definition
The Kohathites were descendants of Kohath and formed one of the three principal Levitical divisions. They were responsible for the most holy vessels of the tabernacle, including the ark.
Biblical Usage
During Israel’s journeys, the Kohathites carried the sacred vessels and camped south of the tabernacle. Samuel belonged to this division.
Historical Background
The biblical records give their numbers at different times and distinguish their place in the marching and encampment arrangements of Israel.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The descendants of Kohath. They formed the first of the three divisions of the Levites (Ex. 6:16, 18; Num. 3:17). In the journeyings of the Israelites they had the charge of the most holy portion of the vessels of the tabernacle, including the ark (Num. 4). Their place in the marching and encampment was south of the tabernacle (Num. 3:29, 31). Their numbers at different times are specified (3:28; 4:36; 26:57, 62). Samuel was of this division.