Numbers 3:23
The families of the Gershonites shall pitch behind the tabernacle westward.
Original Language Analysis
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֖ת
The families
H4940
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֖ת
The families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
1 of 6
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
הַגֵּֽרְשֻׁנִּ֑י
of the Gershonites
H1649
הַגֵּֽרְשֻׁנִּ֑י
of the Gershonites
Strong's:
H1649
Word #:
2 of 6
a gereshonite or descendant of gereshon
אַֽחֲרֵ֧י
behind
H310
אַֽחֲרֵ֧י
behind
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
the tabernacle
H4908
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
4 of 6
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
Historical Context
The western position placed the Gershonites opposite Judah's camp (east side), creating a pattern where Levitical clans surrounded the tabernacle on all four sides. This arrangement both protected the tabernacle and prevented unauthorized approach by common Israelites.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Levites' protective positioning around the tabernacle illustrate that approaching God requires proper mediation?
- What does this spatial arrangement teach us about respecting God's holiness and approaching Him only through the means He has appointed?
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Analysis & Commentary
The Gershonites' assigned camp position 'behind the tabernacle westward' demonstrates that even camp arrangement served theological purposes. The four sides of the tabernacle housed different Levitical clans, creating a living barrier between God's holy presence and the people's camp. This spatial arrangement taught Israel that approaching God requires mediation, a principle fulfilled in Christ who stands between God's holiness and human sin, providing the only safe access to the Father.