Numbers 3 21

Numbers 3:21 kjv

Of Gershon was the family of the Libnites, and the family of the Shimites: these are the families of the Gershonites.

Numbers 3:21 nkjv

From Gershon came the family of the Libnites and the family of the Shimites; these were the families of the Gershonites.

Numbers 3:21 niv

To Gershon belonged the clans of the Libnites and Shimeites; these were the Gershonite clans.

Numbers 3:21 esv

To Gershon belonged the clan of the Libnites and the clan of the Shimeites; these were the clans of the Gershonites.

Numbers 3:21 nlt

The descendants of Gershon were composed of the clans descended from Libni and Shimei.

Numbers 3 verses

Numbers 3 21 Meaning

Numbers 3:21 specifies the two distinct family groups that descended from Gershon, the firstborn son of Levi: the Libnites and the Shimites. This verse establishes their foundational identity within the larger Levitical tribe, essential for understanding their divinely appointed roles in the Tabernacle service, particularly regarding the sacred curtains, coverings, and hangings.

Numbers 3 21 Context

Numbers chapter 3 is a critical record of God's divinely established order for the Levites, who were set apart for service concerning the Tabernacle. Following the census of the other Israelite tribes in chapter 1, this chapter meticulously details the numbering of the Levites, from one month old and upward. It assigns specific duties and locations to each of Levi's three sons—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—around the Tabernacle. This was vital because the Levites served as substitutes for the firstborn sons of Israel, consecrated to the Lord for deliverance from the plague in Egypt. Gershon was the eldest of Levi's sons. Thus, Numbers 3:21 specifies the internal family divisions within the Gershonite clan, which were essential for later chapters (like Numbers 4) that precisely delineate their responsibilities, encampment positions, and assigned items to transport, thereby maintaining strict holiness and order around the dwelling place of God.

Numbers 3 21 Word analysis

• Of (מִגֵּרְשׁוֹן, miGershon): A prefix indicating "from" or "out of." This emphasizes the origin and lineage directly from Gershon, confirming a clear genealogical connection and establishing authority for the family groups.
• Gershon (גֵּרְשׁוֹן, Gershon): The firstborn son of Levi (Gen 46:11; Exo 6:16). His name is generally interpreted as "expulsion" or "exile." As a pivotal figure in the Levitical lineage, he heads one of the three major Levitical clans.
• was (הָיָה, hayah): A verb of existence or becoming, often translated "to be" or "to come to pass." Here, it signifies the established reality and continuation of the family line from Gershon.
• the family (מִשְׁפַּחַת, mishpachat): This Hebrew term refers to a clan, extended family group, or sub-tribe. In the biblical context, families like these formed the backbone of Israelite social and religious organization, each having distinct roles. The precision of detailing each family underlines the systematic nature of God's appointments.
• of the Libnites (הַלִּבְנִי, ha-Libni): Designates the descendants of Libni, one of Gershon's two sons (Exo 6:17; 1 Chr 6:17). The name Libni (לִבְנִי) means "white" or "bright."
• and (וְ, ve): A simple conjunctive "and," connecting the two families listed under Gershon.
• the family (מִשְׁפַּחַת, mishpachat): Repetition reinforces that both the Libnites and Shimites constitute distinct familial units originating from Gershon.
• of the Shimites (וְהַשִּׁמְעִי, veha-Shim'i): Designates the descendants of Shimei, Gershon's second son (Exo 6:17; 1 Chr 6:17). The name Shimei (שִׁמְעִי) means "renowned" or "my fame."
• these (אֵלֶּה, elleh): A demonstrative pronoun, clearly pointing to the Libnites and Shimites previously mentioned, emphasizing their direct identification.
• are (הֵם, hem): A pronominal linking verb that functions to affirm identity, directly associating "these" with "the families of the Gershonites."
• the families (מִשְׁפְּחֹת, mishpekhot): The plural form of mishpachat, encapsulating both branches as belonging to the broader Gershonite collective.
• of the Gershonites (הַגֵּרְשֻׁנִּי, ha-Gershunni): The collective term for all descendants and the entire clan originating from Gershon, reinforcing the paternal lineage and identity established in the first part of the verse.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• "Of Gershon was the family... and the family...": This phrasing establishes a clear hierarchical structure and direct genealogical descent. It meticulously links specific sub-clans back to their founding patriarch, Gershon, which was critical for assigning roles and encampment sites within the Tabernacle service. This reflects God's ordered precision.
• "the Libnites, and the Shimites": These two specific names identify the core branches of the Gershonite clan. The consistent naming conventions in Numbers underscore the importance of lineage in tribal Israel for identity, inheritance, and divine assignment.
• "these are the families of the Gershonites": This conclusive statement reiterates and confirms that the two named groups fully comprise the Gershonite clan for the purposes of this census and the subsequent assignment of Tabernacle duties. It brings clarity and finality to the family delineation.

Numbers 3 21 Bonus section

The specific duties of the Gershonites, including the Libnites and Shimites, were lighter parts of the Tabernacle: the curtains, coverings, screen for the door, and the ropes (Num 3:25-26; 4:24-26). These tasks, though seemingly less prestigious than carrying the Ark of the Covenant, were nonetheless critical for the Tabernacle's assembly and appearance. This illustrates that all divinely appointed roles, whether prominent or subtle, are equally vital for the function of God's dwelling place. The meaning of "Libni" ("white" or "brightness") might subtly foreshadow their responsibility for the beautiful, often white linen curtains of the Tabernacle, contributing to its pure and holy appearance. "Shimei" ("renowned" or "my fame") might signify the importance of maintaining the tabernacle's external splendor, which was how it was "renowned" or displayed before Israel. These family divisions were critical not only for organization but for assigning responsibility and accountability, ensuring that the work of the Lord's house was done "decently and in order" (1 Cor 14:40).

Numbers 3 21 Commentary

Numbers 3:21 is more than a mere genealogical record; it embodies the principle of divine order and meticulous design in sacred service. By clearly identifying the two families of the Gershonites—the Libnites and the Shimites—the verse lays the groundwork for the specific duties detailed later in Numbers. These families were not just anonymous groups but distinct units with precise, divinely ordained responsibilities related to the Tabernacle's most external and flexible parts, such as the curtains, coverings, and tent fabrics. This precise organization counters any notion of arbitrary or self-appointed religious service, emphasizing that God establishes roles and responsibilities within His community. The thoroughness of this biblical census speaks to God's attention to every detail in His kingdom, ensuring proper stewardship and the maintenance of holiness around His presence. It teaches that even seemingly small or mundane details of service are part of a larger divine plan.

• Example for practical usage: Just as the Libnites and Shimites had specific, pre-assigned roles, believers today are called to distinct functions within the Body of Christ (Rom 12:4-8; 1 Cor 12:4-11). This verse underscores the importance of discerning and faithfully fulfilling our unique spiritual gifts and callings for the collective good of the church, recognizing that our individual contributions are essential components of God's overarching plan for His dwelling among us.