Numbers 4:28

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.

This is the service {H5656} of the families {H4940} of the sons {H1121} of Gershon {H1649} in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}: and their charge {H4931} shall be under the hand {H3027} of Ithamar {H385} the son {H1121} of Aaron {H175} the priest {H3548}.

This is how the Gershon families are to serve in the tent of meeting, and they are to be under the direction of Itamar the son of Aharon the cohen.

This is the service of the Gershonite clans at the Tent of Meeting, and their duties shall be under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest.

This is the service of the families of the sons of the Gershonites in the tent of meeting: and their charge shall be under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.

Commentary

Numbers 4:28 provides a specific detail regarding the organizational structure and division of labor within the Israelite camp concerning the service of the Tabernacle. This verse focuses on the responsibilities assigned to the families of the sons of Gershon, one of the three main branches of the Levites.

Context

The Book of Numbers meticulously outlines the preparations and organization for Israel's journey through the wilderness. Chapters 3 and 4 are particularly dedicated to enumerating and detailing the duties of the Levites, who were set apart by God to serve in the Tabernacle. Unlike the other tribes who were numbered for military service, the Levites were counted for their sacred duties, specifically for the care and transport of the Tabernacle of the congregation during their nomadic travels. The three Levitical families—Kohath, Gershon, and Merari—each had distinct roles related to the Tabernacle's components, ensuring its proper dismantling, transport, and reassembly.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: This verse underscores God's meticulous plan for the Tabernacle's operation and the smooth functioning of the Israelite community. Every family had a specific, divinely appointed task, preventing chaos and ensuring reverence for God's dwelling place. This reflects a broader biblical principle of order in God's household, as seen in 1 Corinthians 14:40.
  • Specific Responsibilities: The Gershonites were primarily responsible for the Tabernacle's coverings, curtains, and hangings. Their duties were explicitly detailed in verses like Numbers 4:24-27, which involved carrying the lighter, textile-based components.
  • Priestly Oversight: A crucial aspect highlighted is that the Gershonites' "charge shall be under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest." Ithamar, one of Aaron's four surviving sons (after Nadab and Abihu's judgment), was given direct oversight over the Gershonites and the Merarites (Numbers 4:33). This established a clear chain of command and ensured that even the detailed service of the Levites was conducted under the authority and guidance of the high priestly family, maintaining holiness and proper procedure. This hierarchical structure ensured accountability and adherence to divine instructions for the Aaronic priesthood.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "under the hand of Ithamar" (Hebrew: al-yad) is a common biblical idiom signifying being under the authority, supervision, or direction of someone. It emphasizes direct accountability and leadership, not just proximity. It shows that Ithamar was the designated overseer, responsible for ensuring the Gershonites executed their duties according to God's command.

Practical Application

Numbers 4:28, though describing ancient Levitical service, offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • Every Task Matters: Just as the Gershonites had a specific, vital role, every believer has a unique contribution to make in God's kingdom. No task is too small or insignificant when done for the Lord, as echoed in Colossians 3:23.
  • Order and Accountability are Key: God values order and proper administration. In churches and ministries, clear leadership and accountability structures are essential for effective service and spiritual health.
  • Serving God Requires Guidance: Our service should not be self-directed but guided by those God has placed in authority, respecting the spiritual oversight within the body of Christ.

This verse beautifully illustrates the intricate design of God's plan, where every part, from the smallest curtain to the highest priest, played a crucial role in His divine purpose during Israel's wilderness journey.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 4:33 (3 votes)

    This [is] the service of the families of the sons of Merari, according to all their service, in the tabernacle of the congregation, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:5 (2 votes)

    And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:6 (2 votes)

    And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.