Old Testament
Numbers 4:28
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 4:28, the focus is on the responsibilities assigned to the Gershonite families, who are part of the Levite tribe.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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.
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