The sons of Gershon
Gershon was the firstborn son of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The Levites were set apart for religious duties, and Gershon's descendants had specific responsibilities related to the tabernacle. This highlights the importance of family lineage in Israelite society, where roles and duties were often inherited. The Levites, including the Gershonites, were not given a portion of land like the other tribes but were instead given cities to dwell in, emphasizing their unique role in serving God.

were Libni and Shimei
Libni and Shimei are the sons of Gershon, and their mention signifies the continuation of the Levitical line. The names themselves have meanings that reflect cultural values: Libni means "white" or "pure," and Shimei means "famous" or "renowned." These names may reflect the aspirations or characteristics valued by their family. The genealogical records in the Bible serve to establish the legitimacy and authority of the Levitical priesthood, which was crucial for maintaining the religious order in Israel.

by their clans
The reference to clans indicates the organization of the Israelite society into extended family groups. This structure was essential for maintaining order and distributing responsibilities among the people. The clans of the Levites, including those of Gershon, were assigned specific tasks related to the tabernacle, such as the care and transport of its coverings and curtains. This division of labor ensured that the worship of God was conducted in an orderly and reverent manner, reflecting the holiness and sanctity of the divine presence among the Israelites.

1. Gershon
The firstborn son of Levi, Gershon is one of the three main Levitical families. His descendants were responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains and coverings.

2. Libni
A son of Gershon, Libni's descendants formed one of the clans within the tribe of Levi. His name means "white" or "whiteness," possibly indicating purity or a specific characteristic of his lineage.

3. Shimei
Another son of Gershon, Shimei's descendants also formed a clan within the tribe of Levi. His name means "heard" or "hearing," which may reflect a characteristic or role within the community.

4. Clans of Levi
The Levites were divided into three main families: Gershonites, Kohathites, and Merarites. Each had specific duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple.

5. Levitical Duties
The Levites were set apart for religious duties, serving as assistants to the priests and caretakers of the tabernacle and its furnishings.The Importance of Every Role
The Gershonites, though not priests, played a crucial role in the worship life of Israel. Every believer has a unique and vital role in the body of Christ, regardless of visibility or perceived importance.

Faithfulness in Service
The Gershonites' responsibilities required diligence and care. Similarly, Christians are called to be faithful stewards of the gifts and responsibilities God has entrusted to them.

Generational Faithfulness
The mention of Libni and Shimei highlights the importance of passing down faith and responsibilities through generations. Parents and leaders should invest in teaching and preparing the next generation for service.

Identity in Christ
Just as the names of Libni and Shimei carry meaning, believers find their identity and purpose in Christ, who calls them by name and assigns them their roles in His kingdom.Verse 17. - The sons of Gershon. The line of Gershon, as the eldest, is taken first. Moses and Aaron are descended from the second son. Shimi is called "Shimei" in 1 Chronicles 6:17; but there is no difference in the original.

Parallel Commentaries ...


The sons
בְּנֵ֥י (bə·nê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Gershon [were]
גֵרְשׁ֛וֹן (ḡê·rə·šō·wn)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1648: Gershon -- a son of Levi

Libni
לִבְנִ֥י (liḇ·nî)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3845: Libni -- two Levites

and Shimei,
וְשִׁמְעִ֖י (wə·šim·‘î)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8096: Shimei -- the name of a number of Israelites

by their clans.
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָֽם׃ (lə·miš·pə·ḥō·ṯām)
Preposition-l | Noun - feminine plural construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 4940: A family, circle of relatives, a class, a species, sort, a tribe, people


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OT Law: Exodus 6:17 The sons of Gershon: Libni and Shimei (Exo. Ex)