1 Chronicles 6:66

And some of the clans of the Kohathites were given cities from the tribe of Ephraim for their territory:

Study Bible

And some of the clans
The phrase "And some of the clans" refers to a subset of the larger group of the Kohathites. The Kohathites were one of the four main divisions of the Levites, descendants of Levi, the son of Jacob. The Hebrew word for "clans" is "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" (mishpachot), which can also mean families or households. This indicates a division within the Kohathites, emphasizing the organized and structured nature of the Levitical priesthood. The Levites were set apart for specific religious duties, and this division into clans highlights the importance of order and responsibility in their service to God.

of the Kohathites
The Kohathites were one of the three main families of the Levites, alongside the Gershonites and the Merarites. Kohath was the second son of Levi, and his descendants were given the most sacred duties, including the care of the Ark of the Covenant and other holy items of the tabernacle. The Kohathites' role underscores the holiness and reverence required in handling sacred objects, reflecting the broader biblical theme of approaching God with awe and respect.

were given cities
The allocation of cities to the Kohathites signifies the provision and care God had for the Levites, who did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given cities to dwell in, scattered throughout the land, to ensure their presence and ministry among all the tribes. This distribution of cities is a testament to God's provision and the importance of the Levites' spiritual influence across Israel.

from the tribe of Ephraim
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's younger son, whom Jacob blessed with a greater blessing than his older brother Manasseh. The tribe of Ephraim held a significant position in Israel, often representing the northern kingdom. The allocation of cities from Ephraim to the Kohathites highlights the interconnectedness of the tribes and the shared responsibility in supporting the Levitical priesthood, which served as a spiritual backbone for the nation.

for their territory
The term "territory" here refers to the specific geographical area allocated to the Kohathites within the tribe of Ephraim. The Hebrew word "גְּבוּל" (gevul) can mean border or boundary, indicating a defined space for the Kohathites to inhabit and serve. This allocation underscores the principle of divine order and the importance of designated roles and spaces within the community of God's people. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God establishing boundaries and order in creation and society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sons of Kohath
Kohath was one of the sons of Levi, and his descendants were responsible for the care of the sanctuary. The Kohathites had a special role in the service of the tabernacle, particularly in carrying the most sacred objects.

2. Tribe of Ephraim
Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Ephraim. This tribe was known for its strength and played a significant role in the history of Israel.

3. Cities of Territory
The passage refers to the allocation of cities to the Kohathites within the territory of the tribe of Ephraim. This allocation was part of the broader distribution of land to the Levites, who did not receive a contiguous territory like the other tribes.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Kohathites demonstrates God's provision for those who serve Him. Even though the Levites did not receive a large territory, God ensured they had places to live and serve.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
The Levites' inheritance was not land but the privilege of serving in the temple. This reminds us of the value of spiritual over material inheritance.

Interdependence Among God's People
The Kohathites' cities within Ephraim's territory illustrate the interdependence among the tribes of Israel. Each tribe had a role in supporting the Levites, who in turn served the spiritual needs of the nation.

Faithfulness in Assigned Roles
The Kohathites had specific duties in the tabernacle, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in the roles God assigns to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of cities to the Kohathites reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can we apply this principle in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the spiritual inheritance of the Levites challenge our perspective on material possessions and spiritual responsibilities?

3. How can the interdependence between the tribes of Israel and the Levites inform our understanding of community and support within the church today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Kohathites about being faithful in the roles and responsibilities God has given us?

5. How does the relationship between the tribes of Ephraim and the Kohathites illustrate the broader theme of unity and diversity within the body of Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the provision of cities for the Levites, including the cities of refuge. It provides context for the allocation of cities to the Kohathites and other Levitical clans.

Joshua 21
This chapter details the specific cities given to the Levites, including those from the tribe of Ephraim to the Kohathites, offering a parallel account to 1 Chronicles 6.

Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, setting the stage for the prominence of the tribe of Ephraim in Israel's history.