the descendants of Kohath. They formed the first of the three divisions of the Levites ( Exodus 6:16 Exodus 6:18 ; Numbers 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 ( Numbers 4 ). Their place in the marching and encampment was south of the tabernacle ( Numbers 3:29 Numbers 3:31 ). Their numbers at different times are specified ( 3:28 ; 4:36 ; Numbers 26:57 Numbers 26:62 ). Samuel was of this division.

These dictionary topics are from
M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition,
published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain, copy freely.