Old Testament
Numbers 4:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 4:38, the focus is on the Gershonites, one of the Levitical families tasked with specific duties related to the Tabernacle.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The Gershonites were also counted by their families and ancestral households.
And those that were numbered of the sons of Gershon, throughout their families, and by the house of their fathers,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 4:38, the focus is on the Gershonites, one of the Levitical families tasked with specific duties related to the Tabernacle. This verse highlights the importance of organization and structure within the Israelite community, as each family and household is counted and recognized. The Gershonites were responsible for transporting the curtains and coverings of the Tabernacle, which were essential for worship and the presence of God among His people. By counting them by their families and ancestral households, the text emphasizes the significance of lineage and the roles each family played in the larger community. This counting also reflects God's attention to detail and His care for each individual within the community, ensuring that everyone had a role in the worship and service of the Lord. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of community, responsibility, and the divine order established by God among His people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 4:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of our roles within our communities. Just as the Gershonites had specific responsibilities, we too have unique contributions to make. Embracing our roles can strengthen our communities and enhance our collective worship and service.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 4:38 mean?
Numbers 4:38 refers to the counting of the Gershonites, a Levitical family responsible for specific duties related to the Tabernacle. This verse highlights the importance of organization and the roles each family played in the Israelite community.
What is the significance of the Gershonites in Numbers 4:38?
The Gershonites were significant as they were tasked with transporting the curtains and coverings of the Tabernacle, which were essential for worship. Their counting by families emphasizes the importance of lineage and community structure.
How does Numbers 4:38 relate to community responsibility?
Numbers 4:38 illustrates the concept of community responsibility by showing how each family had specific duties in the worship of God. It encourages individuals to recognize and embrace their unique contributions to strengthen their communities.
What themes are present in Numbers 4:38?
The themes present in Numbers 4:38 include community, organization, service, responsibility, and divine order. These themes highlight the importance of each individual's role within the larger community of Israel.
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.