Gershon

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: From Hebrew Gēršôn (גֵּרְשׁוֹן), often linked to “sojourner/expelled one,” reflecting resident-alien language in Israel’s tradition.
• Period/Era: Patriarchal Period
• Main References: Exodus 6:16–17; Numbers 3:17–26; Numbers 4:21–28; Numbers 7:7; 1 Chronicles 6:16–17
• Key Connections: Son of Levi; brother of Kohath and Merari; father of Libni and Shimei; eponymous ancestor of the Gershonites.

Who was Gershon?

Gershon was the firstborn son of Levi and an early ancestor within Israel’s Levitical genealogies.
His descendants formed the Gershonite clan, one of the three main Levite divisions.
In the wilderness arrangements, the Gershonites were assigned responsibilities connected to the tabernacle’s coverings and hangings.

Key Events & Achievements

• Genealogical placement: Listed among Levi’s sons and as father of Libni and Shimei in Israel’s foundational Levite records.
• Clan role defined: The Gershonites were appointed to care for tabernacle curtains, coverings, and related textiles during Israel’s camp life.
• Transport provision: The Gershonites received two wagons and four oxen to carry their assigned tabernacle materials.

Life Lesson & Legacy

Gershon’s legacy highlights how Israel preserved worship through ordered genealogies and defined Levitical service.

Key Verse

“The Gershonites were to care for the tabernacle, the tent with its covering, the cover of the entrance to the tent of meeting,” — Numbers 3:25, NIV