Numbers 3:21 (KJV)

What does Numbers 3:21 mean?

Numbers 3:21 states that the descendants of Gershon, one of Levi’s sons, were divided into two main family groups: the Libnites and the Shimites. These groups together made up the larger clan known as the Gershonites.

In the book of Numbers, God is instructing Moses about how the Levites—Israel’s priestly tribe—are to be organized for their duties in the tabernacle. This verse specifically lists the family branches that came from Gershon, helping to show how the Levites were grouped and counted for their special responsibilities.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 3:21

• גֵּרְשׁוֹן (Gershon, transliterated "Gershon") refers to the son of Levi whose descendants are being described. This name identifies the specific ancestral line within the Levites.
• מִשְׁפָּחָה (mishpachah, “family” or “clan”) is used several times, emphasizing the importance of family groupings for organizing duties and inheritance among the Levites.
• לִבְנִי (Libni, “Libnites”) and שִׁמְעִי (Shim‘i, “Shimites”) are the names of Gershon’s sons, and their descendants formed the two main family groups within the Gershonites. This detail helps clarify how the Levites were divided for service.

Why Numbers 3:21 matters

• Numbers 3:21 clarifies the internal structure of the Levite tribe by showing how even within one son’s descendants, there were further divisions, which mattered for assigning roles in Israel’s worship life.
• By naming the Libnites and Shimites, the verse helps readers follow later passages where these groups are given specific tasks related to the tabernacle, making the organization of Israel’s worship more understandable.
• This verse connects to the broader census and organization in Numbers, showing that every family group had a recognized place and purpose in the community.