Numbers 3:18

And these [are] the names of the sons of Gershon by their families; Libni, and Shimei.

And these are the names {H8034} of the sons {H1121} of Gershon {H1648} by their families {H4940}; Libni {H3845}, and Shimei {H8096}.

The names of the sons of Gershon were Livni and Shim'i; they fathered their respective clans;

These were the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei.

And these are the names of the sons of Gershon by their families: Libni and Shimei.

Commentary

Numbers 3:18 is a concise verse found within a larger section of the Book of Numbers that meticulously details the organization and duties of the Levites, the priestly tribe set apart for service in the Tabernacle.

Context of Numbers 3:18

This verse specifically names the two sons of Gershon, Libni and Shimei, who became the heads of the two Gershonite families. The preceding verse, Numbers 3:17, introduces the three main divisions of the Levites, named after Levi's sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Chapter 3 as a whole outlines the census of the Levites, their encampment around the Tabernacle, and their specific responsibilities in carrying and maintaining the sacred dwelling during Israel's wilderness journey. The Gershonites, whose lineage is highlighted here, were later assigned the important task of transporting the Tabernacle's coverings, curtains, and cords (as detailed in Numbers 3:25-26).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous listing of names and family lines underscores God's emphasis on order in His service. Every aspect of the Tabernacle worship and the roles of the Levites was precisely defined, reflecting divine precision.
  • Generational Succession: This verse highlights the importance of lineage in ancient Israel, especially concerning sacred service. The roles and responsibilities were passed down through specific family lines, ensuring continuity and adherence to God's commands.
  • Specific Assignments: While seemingly a simple genealogical note, this verse sets the stage for understanding the particular duties assigned to the Gershonite families, distinguishing their tasks from those of the Kohathites and Merarites. This demonstrates that each part of God's work had a designated group responsible for it.

Linguistic Insights

The name Gershon (גֵּרְשׁוֹן, *Geršon*) means "expulsion" or "a sojourner there," possibly reflecting Levi's experience or the nomadic nature of the Levites' service. Libni (לִבְנִי, *Libnī*) means "white" or "whiteness," while Shimei (שִׁמְעִי, *Šimʿī*) means "my renown" or "he has heard." These names, while descriptive, are primarily significant in this context for identifying the foundational heads of the Gershonite families, from whom all subsequent Gershonite descendants would trace their lineage for Tabernacle service.

Practical Application

Though this verse is a historical record of ancient Israel's tribal structure, it offers timeless principles. It reminds us that God is a God of order, and He assigns specific roles and gifts within His church today. Just as the Gershonites had their particular duties, every believer is called to a unique service within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Whether our tasks seem grand or humble, they are vital to the overall functioning of God's kingdom when performed faithfully. This verse encourages us to embrace our divinely appointed roles and contribute to the collective work of God's people.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 6:17

    And these [be] the names of the sons of Gershom; Libni, and Shimei.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:7

    Of the Gershonites [were], Laadan, and Shimei.

  • 1 Chronicles 23:11

    And Jahath was the chief, and Zizah the second: but Jeush and Beriah had not many sons; therefore they were in one reckoning, according to [their] father's house.

  • Numbers 3:21

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

  • 1 Chronicles 25:4

    Of Heman: the sons of Heman; Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, [and] Mahazioth:

  • 1 Chronicles 26:1

    ¶ Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites [was] Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:32

    And his brethren, men of valour, [were] two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every matter pertaining to God, and affairs of the king.
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