Numbers 4:38
And those that were numbered of the sons of Gershon, throughout their families, and by the house of their fathers,
Numbers 4:38 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, the text is referring to the sons of Gershon, one of the three clans of the Levites, who were responsible for the transportation and care of the tabernacle and its furnishings during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The "numbered" refers to the census taken of the Gershonites to determine their specific duties and responsibilities within the camp. The mention of families and fathers signifies the organization and structure of the Levite clan, with each family having specific tasks and roles to fulfill. By delineating the families and houses of the Gershonites, the verse highlights the importance of order and organization in carrying out the duties related to the worship and service of God. This meticulous counting and division of labor ensured the smooth operation of the tabernacle and the fulfillment of religious obligations as prescribed by God.
Theological Overview
When examining the verse regarding the sons of Gershon being numbered throughout their families and by their fathers' houses, a theological interpretation reveals the significance of genealogy and lineage in the biblical context. The act of numbering the sons of Gershon served to establish order and structure within the community of Israelites, emphasizing the importance of each family's role and responsibility within the larger religious framework. Additionally, this verse highlights the value placed on ancestral heritage and the passing down of traditions from one generation to the next. Through word studies, it becomes apparent that the meticulous process of counting and organizing the sons of Gershon reflects God's attention to detail and his desire for meticulousness in carrying out his divine plan. Overall, this verse underscores the interconnectedness of families and the importance of familial ties in fulfilling God's purposes.
Numbers 4:38 in other translations
American Standard Version
And those that were numbered of the sons of Gershon, their families, and by their fathers' houses,
World English Bible
Those who were numbered of the sons of Gershon, their families, and by their fathers’ houses,
Douay-Rheims
The sons of Gerson also were numbered by the kindreds and houses of their fathers,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Also the nombers of the sonnes of Gershon throughout their families and houses of their fathers,