The Kohathites, a division of the Levites, were assigned the most sacred duties of carrying the holy objects of the tabernacle. They were responsible for the ark, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils used in ministry. However, they were not permitted to touch or even look directly at these items until the priests had covered them for transport.
“This is the service of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of meeting, relating to the most holy things: When the camp prepares to journey, Aaron and his sons shall come, and they shall take down the covering veil and cover the ark of the Testimony with it… And when Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all the furnishings of the sanctuary, when the camp is set to go, then the sons of Kohath shall come to carry them; but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die.” (Numbers 4:4–6, 15)
Their role highlighted both the privilege and the danger of drawing near to holy things. The Kohathites bore the weight of the holiest objects, yet always under the strict instructions of God. This ensured that the sanctity of the Lord’s dwelling was preserved, while still allowing His presence to travel in the midst of His people.
