Old Testament
Numbers 4:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This is the work assigned to the Gershonite families at the Tent of Meeting. Their duties fall under the supervision of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest.
Compare translations
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.
What Numbers 4:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 4:28, the focus is on the responsibilities assigned to the Gershonite families, who are part of the Levite tribe. Their role is crucial in the care and transportation of the Tent of Meeting, which is a sacred space for worship and the presence of God among the Israelites. The verse highlights that their duties are overseen by Ithamar, the son of Aaron, who is a priest. This indicates a structured system of service within the community, ensuring that the sacred items and the tent itself are handled properly. The Gershonites were specifically tasked with carrying the curtains, coverings, and other materials related to the tent, emphasizing the importance of their role in maintaining the sanctity of worship. This organization reflects the broader theme of order and responsibility in the community, showing how each family had a specific part to play in the worship of God.
How to apply Numbers 4:28 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of serving in our communities and recognizing the roles we each play. Just as the Gershonites had specific responsibilities, we too can contribute to our communities and places of worship, ensuring that everything is done with care and respect.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 4:28
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 4:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 4:28 mean?
Numbers 4:28 describes the responsibilities of the Gershonite families, who were tasked with caring for the Tent of Meeting. Their duties were overseen by Ithamar, the son of Aaron, indicating a structured system of service within the Israelite community.
What is the significance of the Gershonites in Numbers 4:28?
The Gershonites were part of the Levite tribe and played a crucial role in transporting and maintaining the sacred items of the Tent of Meeting. Their specific responsibilities highlight the importance of organization and order in worship.
What does 'Tent of Meeting' refer to in Numbers 4:28?
The 'Tent of Meeting' refers to the sacred space where the Israelites worshiped and encountered God's presence. It was a central location for their religious practices and required careful handling by designated families like the Gershonites.
How does Numbers 4:28 relate to community service today?
Numbers 4:28 illustrates the importance of each person's role in a community, similar to how individuals today contribute to their communities and places of worship. It encourages recognizing and fulfilling our responsibilities with care and respect.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.