Gershon

Lore & Background

Gershon is consistently named first among the three sons of Levi—Gershon, Kohath, and Merari—in genealogical records (Genesis 46:11; Exodus 6:16; Numbers 3:17). His own sons, Libni and Shimei, became the founders of two families: the Libnites and the Shimites, which together formed the Gershonite clan (Numbers 3:18, 21; Numbers 26:57).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Gershon primarily as a genealogical figure whose descendants, the Gershonites, had specific duties related to the tabernacle. Numbers 3:25 assigns them the charge of the tabernacle itself, its tent, covering, and the door hanging. Their service was supervised by Ithamar, son of Aaron (Numbers 4:28). During the wilderness journey, the sons of Gershon, along with the sons of Merari, bore the tabernacle when it was taken down (Numbers 10:17). They were also provided with two wagons and four oxen for their transport duties (Numbers 7:7). The census of Gershonites eligible for service is recorded in Numbers 4:38–41, and Moses and Aaron numbered them by the commandment of the Lord (Numbers 4:41).

Did You Know?

• Gershon is always listed first among Levi's three sons in the genealogies (Genesis 46:11; Exodus 6:16; Numbers 3:17).
• The Gershonites were responsible for carrying the tabernacle and its coverings when the camp moved (Numbers 10:17).
• They received two wagons and four oxen from the leaders of Israel for their service (Numbers 7:7).
• Their work was directed by Ithamar, the son of Aaron the priest (Numbers 4:28).