Numbers 3:25

And the charge of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of the congregation [shall be] the tabernacle, and the tent, the covering thereof, and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,

And the charge {H4931} of the sons {H1121} of Gershon {H1648} in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150} shall be the tabernacle {H4908}, and the tent {H168}, the covering {H4372} thereof, and the hanging {H4539} for the door {H6607} of the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150},

In connection with the tent of meeting, the descendants of Gershon were to be in charge of the following: the tabernacle itself, its inner and outer coverings, the screen for the entrance of the tent of meeting,

The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were the tabernacle and tent, its covering, the curtain for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting,

And the charge of the sons of Gershon in the tent of meeting shall be the tabernacle, and the Tent, the covering thereof, and the screen for the door of the tent of meeting,

Commentary

Numbers 3:25 details the specific responsibilities assigned to the sons of Gershon, one of the three major families within the tribe of Levi, concerning the Tabernacle in the wilderness. This verse is part of a larger section in the book of Numbers that meticulously outlines the organization, census, and duties of the Levites, who were chosen by God to serve Him directly in place of the firstborn of Israel.

Context

The book of Numbers primarily chronicles Israel's journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab, emphasizing their wilderness wanderings, divine laws, and the organization of the camp. Chapter 3 focuses on the Levites, who were set apart for service to the Lord, particularly in the upkeep and transport of the Tabernacle. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites received no territorial inheritance but were sustained by tithes and offerings, devoting their lives to sacred service. The Gershonites, as described here, were responsible for the lighter, more textile-based components of the portable sanctuary.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Specificity: This verse underscores God's meticulous nature in commanding the precise duties for each Levitical family. Every part of the Tabernacle's care was divinely appointed, ensuring its sanctity and proper handling. This contrasts with the responsibilities given to the Kohathites (carrying the holy vessels) and the Merarites (carrying the heavy structural components).
  • Stewardship of Sacred Things: The Gershonites were entrusted with the care of the Tabernacle's coverings and hangings. This highlights the theme of stewardship—being responsible guardians of God's holy dwelling place and its components.
  • Importance of the Tabernacle: The detailed assignment emphasizes the central role of the Tabernacle as the place of God's presence and meeting with His people. Its various parts, even the seemingly mundane coverings, were sacred and required careful attention.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "charge" for the Hebrew word מִשְׁמֶרֶת (mishmeret), which signifies a "keeping," "guard," or "responsibility." It implies not just a task, but a sacred trust or watch. The term "tabernacle" (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan) means "dwelling place," emphasizing God's presence among Israel. The distinction between "tabernacle" (the inner structure of curtains and frames) and "tent" (אֹהֶל, ohel, referring to the outer tent covering) shows the precision in describing the various layers and components of the sanctuary, each requiring specific care.

Practical Application

Numbers 3:25 reminds us that God is a God of order and that every task, no matter how seemingly small or mundane, is important when done in His service. Just as the Gershonites had their specific, vital role in maintaining God's dwelling place, believers today are called to faithfulness in their unique ministries and responsibilities within the spiritual body of Christ. It teaches us the value of diligence, attention to detail, and humble service, knowing that all we do for the Lord contributes to His larger divine plan and the building up of His church.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 25:9 (4 votes)

    According to all that I shew thee, [after] the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make [it].

  • Exodus 26:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle [with] ten curtains [of] fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: [with] cherubims of cunning work shalt thou make them.

  • Exodus 26:14 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt make a covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above [of] badgers' skins.

  • Numbers 4:24 (2 votes)

    This [is] the service of the families of the Gershonites, to serve, and for burdens:

  • Numbers 4:28 (2 votes)

    This [is] the service of the families of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of the congregation: and their charge [shall be] under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.

  • Numbers 10:17 (2 votes)

    And the tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari set forward, bearing the tabernacle.

  • 1 Chronicles 9:14 (2 votes)

    ¶ And of the Levites; Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;