The Korhites, also known as the Korahites, are a significant group within the Levitical lineage, descending from Korah, a son of Izhar, who was a son of Kohath, the son of Levi. The Korhites are primarily recognized for their role in the religious and musical life of ancient Israel, particularly during the time of the Tabernacle and the Temple.

Genealogy and Historical Background

Korah, the progenitor of the Korhites, is most famously known for his rebellion against Moses and Aaron, as recorded in Numbers 16. Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and others, challenged the leadership of Moses, resulting in divine judgment where the earth opened and swallowed the rebels. Despite this, the descendants of Korah did not perish. Numbers 26:11 states, "However, the line of Korah did not die out."

The survival of Korah's descendants is significant, as they continued to serve in important roles within the Levitical duties. The Korhites are mentioned in various genealogical records, such as 1 Chronicles 6:22-28, which traces their lineage and highlights their service in the house of the Lord.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Korhites were primarily responsible for specific duties related to the Tabernacle and later the Temple. As part of the Kohathite division of the Levites, they were charged with the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects. Numbers 4:4-15 outlines the responsibilities of the Kohathites, which included carrying the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils during the Israelites' wilderness journeys.

In addition to their duties related to the Tabernacle, the Korhites are also noted for their contributions to the musical and liturgical life of Israel. Several Psalms are attributed to the sons of Korah, indicating their role as temple musicians and composers. These Psalms, such as Psalm 42, 44-49, 84, 85, 87, and 88, reflect a deep spiritual insight and a commitment to worship.

Theological Significance

The account of the Korhites serves as a powerful reminder of God's grace and redemption. Despite the rebellion of their ancestor, the descendants of Korah were not only spared but were also given a significant role in the worship and spiritual life of Israel. This narrative underscores the themes of mercy and the possibility of restoration and service to God, even after a history of sin and rebellion.

The Psalms attributed to the sons of Korah are particularly noteworthy for their expressions of longing for God, trust in His deliverance, and the beauty of worship in His presence. For example, Psalm 42:1-2 states, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When shall I come and appear in God’s presence?"

Legacy

The legacy of the Korhites is one of transformation and dedication to the service of God. Their contributions to the worship practices of Israel have left a lasting impact, particularly through the Psalms that continue to inspire and encourage believers. The Korhites exemplify the potential for redemption and the importance of faithful service in the life of the community of faith.A Levitical family descended from Korah (Exodus 6:24; 1 Chronicles 12:6; 26:1; 2 Chronicles 20:19). KORHITES

kor'-hits: In the King James Version for "Korahites" in Exodus 6:24 1 Chronicles 12:6; 1 Chronicles 26:1; 2 Chronicles 20:19.

See KORAH, 3.

Jehoshaphat
... And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites,
stood up to praise the Lord God of Israel with a loud voice on high.". ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 15 jehoshaphat.htm

Korhites (4 Occurrences)
...KORHITES. kor'-hits: In the King James Version for "Korahites" in Exodus 6:24 1
Chronicles 12:6; 1 Chronicles 26:1; 2 Chronicles 20:19. ...Korhites (4 Occurrences). ...
/k/korhites.htm - 8k

Korhite (2 Occurrences)
... Korhite (2 Occurrences). Exodus 6:24 And the sons of Korah; Assir, and Elkanah,
and Abiasaph: these are the families of the Korhites. (Root in KJV WBS YLT). ...
/k/korhite.htm - 6k

Kors (3 Occurrences)

/k/kors.htm - 7k

Nethaneel (14 Occurrences)
... 15:24). (4.) A Levite (1 Chronicles 24:6). (5.) A temple porter, of the
family of the Korhites (1 Chronicles 26:4). (6.) One of ...
/n/nethaneel.htm - 11k

Obed-edom (16 Occurrences)
... Servant of Edom. (1.) "The Gittite" (probably so called because he was a native
of Gath-rimmon), a Levite of the family of the Korhites (1 Chronicles 26:1, 4-8 ...
/o/obed-edom.htm - 15k

Obededom (15 Occurrences)
... Servant of Edom. (1.) "The Gittite" (probably so called because he was a native
of Gath-rimmon), a Levite of the family of the Korhites (1 Chronicles 26:1, 4-8 ...
/o/obededom.htm - 14k

Joezer (1 Occurrence)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary Jehovah is his help, one of the Korhites who became part
of David's body-guard (1 Chronicles 12:6). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ...
/j/joezer.htm - 7k

Jesiah (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Jesiah (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 12:6 Elkanah, and
Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites, (KJV WBS YLT). ...
/j/jesiah.htm - 7k

Gatekeepers (38 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 26:1 For the courses of the gatekeepers: of the Korhites 'is'
Meshelemiah son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph; (YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/g/gatekeepers.htm - 19k

Meshelemiah (4 Occurrences)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary Friendship of Jehovah, a Levite of the family of the Korhites,
called also Shelemiah (1 Chronicles 9:21; 26:1, 2, 9, 14). ...
/m/meshelemiah.htm - 8k

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