Old Testament
Numbers 4:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Gershonites, one of the Levitical clans.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
"Take a census of the Gershonites as well, organized by their ancestral households and families.
Take also the sum of the sons of Gershon, throughout the houses of their fathers, by their families;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Gershonites, one of the Levitical clans. This census is to be organized by their family groups and ancestral households. The Gershonites had specific responsibilities related to the care and transport of the tabernacle and its furnishings. By counting them, God ensures that the community is organized and that each family knows its role in the service of the tabernacle. This process highlights the importance of order and structure within the Israelite community, especially in their worship practices. It also emphasizes the value of each family and individual in fulfilling God's commands and maintaining the sanctity of their worship environment. The census serves as a reminder that everyone has a part to play in the larger mission of the community, reinforcing the idea of collective responsibility in serving God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 4:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of organization and structure in our communities and families. Just as the Gershonites had specific roles, we too should understand our responsibilities and contributions within our families and communities, ensuring that we work together harmoniously for a common purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 4:22 mean?
Numbers 4:22 describes God's instruction to Moses to take a census of the Gershonites, a Levitical clan. This census is organized by family groups to ensure that each family understands its role in caring for the tabernacle and its furnishings.
What is the significance of the census in Numbers 4:22?
The census in Numbers 4:22 highlights the importance of organization and structure within the Israelite community. It ensures that each family knows its responsibilities in serving God and maintaining the tabernacle.
What responsibilities did the Gershonites have according to Numbers 4:22?
The Gershonites had specific responsibilities related to the care and transport of the tabernacle and its furnishings. By counting them, God ensured that these duties were clearly assigned and understood.
How does Numbers 4:22 relate to community service?
Numbers 4:22 emphasizes the idea of collective responsibility in serving God. Just as the Gershonites had defined roles, it encourages us to recognize our own responsibilities within our families and communities.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
Unlock the full Numbers summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Numbers — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 36 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Numbers summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.