### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gêrᵉshunnîy**, represented by `{{H1649}}`, is a patronymic term for a **Gershonite**, meaning a descendant of Gereshon. It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from the name of Levi's son, **Gêrᵉshôwn** `{{H1648}}`, and is used to identify this specific Levitical family line.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1649}}` is used to define the identity and function of one of the three main families of the Levites, alongside the Kohathites and Merarites [[Numbers 26:57]]. The **Gershonites** were assigned specific roles related to the Tabernacle, with their duties described as **service** `{{H5656}}` and the carrying of **burdens** `{{H4853}}` [[Numbers 4:24]]. Their responsibilities were supervised by Ithamar, the son of Aaron the priest [[Numbers 4:28]]. The book of Numbers also specifies their designated place to **pitch** `{{H2583}}` their tents **behind** `{{H310}}` the tabernacle, to the **westward** `{{H3220}}` [[Numbers 3:23]]. As part of their inheritance, the **Gershonites** were allotted thirteen **cities** `{{H5892}}` with their **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` [[Joshua 21:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the role of the Gershonites:
* `{{H1648}}` **Gêrᵉshôwn** (a refugee; Gereshon): This is the name of the patriarch from whom the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}` descend. He is identified as one of the three **sons** `{{H1121}}` of Levi [[Genesis 46:11]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word is central to the identity of the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}`, establishing them as a distinct clan within the larger tribe of Levi. Scripture refers to "the family of the Gershonites" [[Numbers 26:57]].
* `{{H5656}}` **ʻăbôdâh** (service): This term defines the specific work and duties assigned to the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}` in their role at the tabernacle of the congregation [[Numbers 4:28]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (Levite): This designates the tribe to which the **Gershonites** `{{H1649}}` belonged, clarifying their sacred status and function within Israel [[2 Chronicles 29:12]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1649}}` carries significant organizational and theological weight:
* **Ordered Worship:** The term highlights the structured nature of Israel's worship. The **Gershonites** had clearly delineated responsibilities for the Tabernacle, which were carried out under the direct **appointment** `{{H6310}}` of **Aaron** `{{H175}}` and his **sons** `{{H1121}}` [[Numbers 4:27]].
* **Genealogical Headship:** The identity of the **Gershonites** was preserved through careful genealogical records. They were subdivided into the **families** `{{H4940}}` of the **Libnites** `{{H3846}}` and the **Shimites** `{{H8097}}` [[Numbers 3:21]], and their **chief** `{{H5387}}` was identified as **Eliasaph** `{{H460}}` the son of **Lael** `{{H3815}}` [[Numbers 3:24]].
* **Custodians of Sacred Items:** The **Gershonites** were entrusted with significant responsibilities, including being keepers of the **treasure** `{{H214}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` through the **hand** `{{H3027}}` of **Jehiel** `{{H3171}}` the **Gershonite** `{{H1649}}` [[1 Chronicles 29:8]].
* **Role in Spiritual Reformation:** Generations later, the **Gershonites** continued their service. Individuals like **Joah** `{{H3098}}` the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Zimmah** `{{H2155}}` were among the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` who **arose** `{{H6965}}` to cleanse the temple during a period of national renewal [[2 Chronicles 29:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1649}}` **Gêrᵉshunnîy** is more than just a family name; it is a title that denotes a specific lineage within the tribe of Levi with inherited duties and a distinct role in the worship of Israel. The term underscores the principles of order, delegated authority, and genealogical identity as foundational to the covenant community's service to God.
TRV