Numbers 3 18

Numbers 3:18 kjv

And these are the names of the sons of Gershon by their families; Libni, and Shimei.

Numbers 3:18 nkjv

And these are the names of the sons of Gershon by their families: Libni and Shimei.

Numbers 3:18 niv

These were the names of the Gershonite clans: Libni and Shimei.

Numbers 3:18 esv

And these are the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei.

Numbers 3:18 nlt

The clans descended from Gershon were named after two of his descendants, Libni and Shimei.

Numbers 3 verses

Numbers 3 18 Meaning

Numbers 3:18 serves as a concise genealogical record, specifically identifying the two sons of Gershon: Libni and Shimei. It emphasizes that these individuals are the heads from which the Gershonite families derive their identity and through whom their lineage is traced for their assigned roles in the Tabernacle service. This verse is part of God's meticulously laid out organization of the Israelite tribes, particularly the Levites, for their sacred duties in the wilderness.

Numbers 3 18 Context

Numbers 3 is crucial for understanding the divine organization of the Levite tribe and their specific role in Israel's wilderness journey. Immediately preceding this verse, the chapter introduces the descendants of Aaron (Num 3:1-4) and then outlines God's intention to take the Levites as a replacement for the firstborn of Israel, sanctifying them for service to the Tabernacle (Num 3:11-13). Numbers 3:17 then broadly lists Levi's three sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari, serving as the patriarchs of the three main Levite families. Verse 18 then proceeds to specifically detail Gershon's direct descendants, followed by similar lists for Kohath and Merari in subsequent verses (Num 3:19-20). This detailed enumeration sets the stage for defining the specific responsibilities of each Levite family in the handling, transportation, and service of the Tabernacle, underscoring the divine order and separation for sacred duties. Historically, this meticulous organization ensured proper worship, prevented defilement of the holy objects, and maintained order within the large encampment of Israel.

Numbers 3 18 Word analysis

• And these are the names: The Hebrew phrase "וְאֵלֶּה שְׁמוֹת" (v'elleh sh'mot) often introduces a list or enumeration, signifying the formal and precise nature of the upcoming information. It underscores the importance of identity and lineage in a divinely ordered system, where roles are often tied to who one is through birth.
• of the sons of Gershon: The term "בְּנֵי" (b'nei), meaning "sons," denotes direct male offspring, establishing the immediate lineage. Gershon (גֵּרְשׁוֹן, Gershon) means "sojourner" or "exile." As the firstborn of Levi (Exod 6:16), his name could be seen as prophetically reflecting the Levites' nomadic life during the wilderness journey or even the sojourning nature of God's people on earth. His lineage would form one of the major divisions of the Levites.
• by their families: The phrase "לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָם" (l'mishpechotam), from the root mishpachah, meaning "family," "clan," or "kindred." This highlights that the enumeration is not merely of individuals, but of foundational units of society that would give rise to specific subdivisions within the tribe. These families would inherit and pass on their assigned responsibilities within the Tabernacle service. This structure reinforces the importance of corporate identity and inherited roles within Israel.
• Libni: (לִבְנִי, Libni) means "whiteness." This name forms one of the two main branches of Gershon's descendants. While a literal meaning, it's possible it implicitly signifies purity or cleanness, concepts often associated with the priestly service the Levites were involved in.
• and Shimei: (שִׁמְעִי, Shim'i) means "my renown," or "he has heard." This forms the second main branch. The meaning "he has heard" could subtly link to obedience or attentiveness, which would be crucial qualities for those engaged in precise, divinely ordained service. These two sons are consistently listed as Gershon's immediate progeny whenever their lineage is referenced (e.g., Exod 6:17, 1 Chr 6:17).

Numbers 3 18 Bonus section

The repeated emphasis on detailed genealogies and family divisions in Numbers (and throughout the Torah) served not only practical administrative purposes but also significant theological functions. It highlighted the covenant promises, tracing the lineage of blessing and reminding Israel that their identity was rooted in divine selection rather than human choice. For the Levites, this detailed naming established their legitimacy for exclusive service, countering any potential claims by other tribes or individuals to undertake these sacred responsibilities, thereby safeguarding the holiness of God's presence and ensuring the proper approach to Him in worship. This pattern of specific divine appointment for sacred service points towards the precision and intentionality found throughout God's plan, from the old covenant order to the new covenant's spiritual administration.

Numbers 3 18 Commentary

Numbers 3:18 is not merely a genealogical list; it's a foundational administrative detail within God's divinely orchestrated plan for the worship and order of Israel. By specifically naming Gershon's sons, Libni and Shimei, God establishes the distinct familial lines (the Libnites and the Shimites) through which specific sacred duties for the Tabernacle would be administered. This emphasis on lineage ensures accountability, continuity, and the precise execution of tasks according to God's detailed commands. It highlights God's meticulousness, demonstrating that even the structure and personnel for service were preordained and clearly defined, leaving no room for human arbitrariness. The details about these families become practical when their duties are assigned (e.g., Num 4:21-28), showing that divine organization preceded specific assignments. This order reflects a divine principle: true worship proceeds from divine direction, involving specific roles and designated individuals.