Numbers 4:4

This shall bee the seruice of the sonnes of Kohath, in the Tabernacle of the Congregation, about the most Holy things. Numbers 4:4 (KJV)

The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and it focuses on the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. In this verse the specific focus is on the sons of Kohath, one of the Levitical families responsible for the service in the tabernacle.

The Kohathites were descendants of Kohath, the second son of Levi, the son of Jacob. The Levites were set apart as a special tribe dedicated to the service of God in the tabernacle, and the Kohathites were given the responsibility of caring for and transporting the most holy things of the tabernacle.

The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary that served as a place of worship and the dwelling of God’s presence among the Israelites during their journey. The sons of Kohath had the significant task of handling and transporting the most holy objects within the tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Menorah, and the Altar of Incense. According to Numbers 4:5‑6 Aaron and his sons were responsible for covering these sacred items before transportation, and the Kohathites were strictly instructed not to touch the holy things directly (Numbers 4:15). They were required to handle the objects carefully and ensure they were properly covered and protected during transport.

The phrase “about the most holy things” emphasizes the sacred nature of the objects entrusted to the Kohathites. These objects symbolised the presence of God and were treated with utmost reverence.

Lessons for believers today:

• Responsibility and Sacredness – The sons of Kohath were given a specific task and entrusted with the sacred objects of the tabernacle. Likewise, believers are called to serve God and carry out their responsibilities with a sense of reverence and sacredness, approaching every role in the Kingdom of God with dedication and honour.
• Handling God’s Word – The most holy things can be seen as a representation of God’s Word. Christians have the privilege and responsibility of handling and proclaiming the truths of Scripture. Just as the Kohathites handled the sacred objects with care under priestly supervision, believers should handle the Word of God with reverence, studying it diligently and sharing it faithfully.
• Protecting God’s Presence – The sons of Kohath were responsible for ensuring the safe transport of the most holy objects after they had been properly covered by the priests. In the same way, believers are called to protect and honour God’s presence in their lives and in the community of believers, creating an environment conducive to experiencing and encountering God’s presence both individually and corporately.

In summary, Numbers 4:4 reminds us of the responsibilities of the sons of Kohath in handling the most holy things in the tabernacle. It teaches the importance of approaching our service to God with reverence and sacredness, handling His Word with care, and protecting His presence in our lives.