Numbers 4:22
Take also the sum of the sons of Gershon, throughout the houses of their fathers, by their families;
Original Language Analysis
נָשֹׂ֗א
Take
H5375
נָשֹׂ֗א
Take
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
1 of 10
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
רֹ֛אשׁ
also the sum
H7218
רֹ֛אשׁ
also the sum
Strong's:
H7218
Word #:
3 of 10
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
בְּנֵ֥י
of the sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
of the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
גַּם
H1571
גַּם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
לְבֵ֥ית
throughout the houses
H1004
לְבֵ֥ית
throughout the houses
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
8 of 10
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Historical Context
The Gershonites, descendants of Levi through Gershon, formed one of three main Levitical divisions. Their responsibilities for the tabernacle's curtains and coverings required skill in handling large, heavy fabrics and maintaining the structure that separated the holy from the common.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the equal importance of different Levitical tasks inform our understanding of spiritual gifts in the church?
- What does God's detailed organization of seemingly mundane tasks teach about His care for all aspects of worship?
- In what ways does the separation of holy and common spaces in the tabernacle reflect our call to holiness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The separate census of the Gershonites demonstrates God's comprehensive organization of worship service. While the Kohathites carried the furniture, the Gershonites cared for the tabernacle's fabric structure—the curtains, coverings, and hangings. Both tasks were essential, teaching that all divinely appointed service has dignity and purpose. This reflects the Reformed understanding of vocation—all legitimate work done in obedience to God's calling glorifies Him, whether spectacular or mundane.