New International VersionThis was the total of those in the Gershonite clans who served at the tent of meeting. Moses and Aaron counted them according to the LORD’s command.
New Living TranslationSo this was the total of all those from the Gershonite clans who were eligible to serve at the Tabernacle. Moses and Aaron listed them, just as the LORD had commanded.
English Standard VersionThis was the list of the clans of the sons of Gershon, all who served in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron listed according to the commandment of the LORD.
Berean Standard BibleThese were counted from the Gershonite clans who served at the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron counted at the LORD’s command.
King James BibleThese are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all that might do service in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron did number according to the commandment of the LORD.
New King James VersionThese are the ones who were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all who might serve in the tabernacle of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
New American Standard BibleThese were the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron counted according to the commandment of the LORD.
NASB 1995These are the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
NASB 1977These are the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
Legacy Standard BibleThese are the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of Yahweh.
Amplified BibleThese were numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who served in the Tent of Meeting (tabernacle), whom Moses and Aaron numbered just as the LORD had commanded.
Christian Standard BibleThese were the registered men of the Gershonite clans. At the LORD’s command Moses and Aaron registered everyone who could serve at the tent of meeting.
Holman Christian Standard BibleThese were the registered men of the Gershonite clans. At the LORD’s command Moses and Aaron registered everyone who could serve at the tent of meeting.
American Standard VersionThese are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, all that did serve in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of Jehovah.
English Revised VersionThese are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, all that did serve in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThis was the total of all those in the Gershonite families who worked at the tent of meeting. Moses and Aaron did as the LORD had commanded Moses and registered the Gershonites.
International Standard Versionfrom the tribes of the descendants of Gershon, everyone who would be serving at the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to what the LORD had said.
NET BibleThese were those numbered from the families of the Gershonites, everyone who served in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the LORD.
New Heart English BibleThese are those who were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, all who served in the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
Webster's Bible TranslationThese are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all that might do service in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThese were counted from the Gershonite clans who served at the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron counted at the LORD’s command.
World English BibleThese are those who were counted of the families of the sons of Gershon, all who served in the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron counted according to the commandment of Yahweh. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionThese [are] those numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who is serving in the Tent of Meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered by the command of YHWH.
Young's Literal Translation These are those numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, every one who is serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered by the command of Jehovah.
Smith's Literal TranslationThese the reviewings of the families of the sons of Gershon, all serving in the tent of appointment, whom Moses reviewed and Aaron, at the mouth of Jehovah. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleThis is the people of the Gersonites, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the Lord.
Catholic Public Domain VersionThis is the people of the Gershonites, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the word of the Lord.
New American BibleSuch was the enrollment of the clans of the Gershonites, everyone who was to serve in the tent of meeting, whom Moses enrolled, together with Aaron, as the LORD directed.
New Revised Standard VersionThis was the enrollment of the clans of the Gershonites, all who served at the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron enrolled according to the commandment of the LORD. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThese were the numbers of the family of the sons of Gershon, all who served in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedThese are the numbers of the family of the sons of Gershun, everyone who served in the Time Tent whom Moshe and Ahron numbered by the word of the mouth of LORD JEHOVAH. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917These are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all that did serve in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationThis is the numbering of the family of the sons of Gedson, every one who ministers in the tabernacle of witness; whom Moses and Aaron numbered by the word of the Lord, by the hand of Moses.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Numbering of the Levite Clans… 40And those numbered by their clans and families totaled 2,630. 41Thesewere countedfrom the Gershoniteclanswho servedat the Tentof Meeting,whomMosesand Aaroncountedatthe LORD’scommand.42And the Merarites were numbered by their clans and families,…
Cross References Exodus 38:21This is the inventory for the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, as recorded at Moses’ command by the Levites under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest.
Numbers 1:50-53Instead, you are to appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the Testimony, all its furnishings, and everything in it. They shall carry the tabernacle and all its articles, care for it, and camp around it. / Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites are to take it down, and whenever it is to be pitched, the Levites are to set it up. Any outsider who goes near it must be put to death. / The Israelites are to camp by their divisions, each man in his own camp and under his own standard. ...
Numbers 3:6-9“Bring the tribe of Levi and present them to Aaron the priest to assist him. / They are to perform duties for him and for the whole congregation before the Tent of Meeting, attending to the service of the tabernacle. / They shall take care of all the furnishings of the Tent of Meeting and fulfill obligations for the Israelites by attending to the service of the tabernacle. ...
Numbers 8:24-26“This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years of age or older shall enter to perform the service in the work at the Tent of Meeting. / But at the age of fifty, they must retire from performing the work and no longer serve. / After that, they may assist their brothers in fulfilling their duties at the Tent of Meeting, but they themselves are not to do the work. This is how you are to assign responsibilities to the Levites.”
1 Chronicles 23:24-32These were the descendants of Levi by their families—the heads of families, registered individually by name—those twenty years of age or older who worked in the service of the house of the LORD. / For David had said, “The LORD, the God of Israel, has given rest to His people and has come to dwell in Jerusalem forever. / So now the Levites no longer need to carry the tabernacle or any of the articles for its service.” ...
1 Chronicles 6:48-49Their fellow Levites were assigned to every kind of service of the tabernacle, the house of God. / But Aaron and his sons did all the work of the Most Holy Place. They presented the offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense to make atonement for Israel, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded.
1 Chronicles 9:28-32Some of them were in charge of the articles used in worship, to count them whenever they were brought in or taken out. / Others were put in charge of the furnishings and other articles of the sanctuary, as well as the fine flour, wine, oil, frankincense, and spices. / And some of the sons of the priests mixed the spices. ...
2 Chronicles 31:2Hezekiah reestablished the divisions of the priests and Levites—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—for the burnt offerings and peace offerings, for ministry, for giving thanks, and for singing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.
Nehemiah 12:44-47And on that same day men were appointed over the rooms that housed the supplies, contributions, firstfruits, and tithes. The portions specified by the Law for the priests and Levites were gathered into these storerooms from the fields of the villages, because Judah rejoiced over the priests and Levites who were serving. / They performed the service of their God and the service of purification, along with the singers and gatekeepers, as David and his son Solomon had prescribed. / For long ago, in the days of David and Asaph, there were directors for the singers and for the songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. ...
Hebrews 9:1-5Now the first covenant had regulations for worship and also an earthly sanctuary. / A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were the lampstand, the table, and the consecrated bread. This was called the Holy Place. / Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place, ...
Hebrews 9:6-10When everything had been prepared in this way, the priests entered regularly into the first room to perform their sacred duties. / But only the high priest entered the second room, and then only once a year, and never without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. / By this arrangement the Holy Spirit was showing that the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed as long as the first tabernacle was still standing. ...
Hebrews 8:5The place where they serve is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”
Hebrews 7:11-12Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear—one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron? / For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed as well.
1 Corinthians 9:13-14Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings? / In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
1 Peter 2:5you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
Treasury of Scripture These are they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all that might do service in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron did number according to the commandment of the LORD. Numbers 4:22 Take also the sum of the sons of Gershon, throughout the houses of their fathers, by their families; Jump to Previous AaronClansCommandmentCongregationCountedFamiliesGershonGershoniteLord'sMeetingMosesNumberedServeServedServiceServingTabernacleTentTotalWorkJump to Next AaronClansCommandmentCongregationCountedFamiliesGershonGershoniteLord'sMeetingMosesNumberedServeServedServiceServingTabernacleTentTotalWorkNumbers 4 1.The age at which the Levites were to serve, and the duration of the service4.The duty of the Kohathites16.The charge of Eleazar17.The office of the priests21.The duty of the Gershonites29.Of the Merarites34.The number of the Kohathites38.Of the Gershonites42.And of the MeraritesThese were counted from the Gershonite clansThe Gershonites were one of the three Levitical families, descendants of Levi through his son Gershon. Their role was crucial in the service of the Tabernacle, highlighting the importance of order and structure in worship. The counting of the Gershonites signifies the organization and preparation necessary for the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. This census was part of a larger effort to ensure that each clan knew its responsibilities, reflecting God's desire for order and precision in His service. who served at the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites. The Gershonites were responsible for the care of the Tabernacle's curtains, coverings, and other fabric elements. This service underscores the sacredness of their duties and the reverence required in handling holy objects. The Tent of Meeting prefigures the coming of Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity (John 1:14). whom Moses and Aaron counted
Moses and Aaron, as leaders of Israel, were responsible for ensuring that God's commands were followed precisely. Their involvement in the census emphasizes the importance of leadership in spiritual matters and the need for accountability. This act of counting also reflects the broader biblical theme of God knowing and numbering His people, as seen in passages likePsalm 147:4 andMatthew 10:30. at the LORD’s command
The census was conducted according to God's direct instruction, highlighting the divine authority behind the organization of the Israelite camp. This obedience to God's command is a recurring theme in Scripture, illustrating the importance of following God's will. It also points to the prophetic nature of God's plans, as each detail in the organization of the Tabernacle service foreshadows the coming of Christ and the establishment of His church, where every believer has a role to play (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Persons / Places / Events 1. GershonitesDescendants of Gershon, the son of Levi, responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains, coverings, and other fabric elements. 2. MosesThe leader of the Israelites, who, along with Aaron, conducted the census of the Levites as commanded by God. 3. AaronThe brother of Moses and the first high priest, who assisted in the census and had a significant role in the spiritual leadership of Israel. 4. Tent of MeetingThe portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the Gershonites served. 5. The LORD's CommandThe divine instruction given to Moses and Aaron to organize and number the Levites for their service roles. Teaching Points Faithful ServiceThe Gershonites' role in the Tent of Meeting underscores the importance of faithful service in God's work, regardless of visibility or prominence. Obedience to God's CommandMoses and Aaron's adherence to God's command to number the Levites highlights the necessity of obedience in leadership and ministry. Community and CooperationThe organization of the Levites into specific roles demonstrates the value of community and cooperation in achieving God's purposes. Heritage and LegacyThe Gershonites' service is a reminder of the spiritual heritage and legacy that believers are called to uphold and pass on to future generations. Divine Order and StructureThe detailed organization of the Levites reflects God's desire for order and structure in worship and service, which can be applied to church and personal life. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Numbers 4:41?
2.How does Numbers 4:41 demonstrate the importance of organized service in ministry?
3.What can we learn from the Levites' dedication about serving God today?
4.How does Numbers 4:41 connect to New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts?
5.In what ways can we apply the Levites' example to our church roles?
6.How does this verse encourage accountability in our personal and communal faith practices?
7.What is the significance of the number of Levites counted in Numbers 4:41?
8.How does Numbers 4:41 reflect the organization of the Israelite camp?
9.Why were the Levites specifically chosen for service in Numbers 4:41?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 4?
11.Who were the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites?
12.Numbers 4:24-26 - How feasible is it that the Gershonites could manage the massive weights of curtains and tents in a desert setting?
13.Numbers 4:29-30 - Why does God prescribe a seemingly arbitrary age range for the Merarites' duties, and does this contradict other biblical texts about priestly service?
14.Why does Numbers 8:24-25 state Levites begin serving at age 25, while Numbers 4:3 says they start at age 30?What Does Numbers 4:41 Mean These were counted“Counted” signals a precise census (Numbers 4:2–3). Every man was literally tallied, emphasizing God’s concern for exact obedience. Similar detail appears earlier when Israel’s fighting men were numbered inNumbers 1:2–3. Such accuracy underscores that each person matters to God and that service is orderly, not haphazard (1 Corinthians 14:40).
from the Gershonite clansThe Gershonites, descendants of Levi through Gershon (Exodus 6:16–17), had distinct duties.Numbers 3:25–26 lists their tasks—caring for the tabernacle’s curtains, coverings, and cords. This verse reminds us that spiritual heritage carries purpose, echoingPsalm 100:3: “We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.”
who served at the Tent of MeetingService occurred at the very heart of Israel’s worship life (Exodus 29:42–43). The Tent of Meeting was where God promised, “I will meet with you there.” By linking the Gershonites to hands-on ministry, the text affirms that each believer’s work—however behind-the-scenes—supports the larger mission (1 Peter 4:10–11).
whom Moses and Aaron countedLeadership validates calling. Moses and Aaron, Israel’s civil and spiritual heads, personally confirmed the census.Numbers 4:27 shows the Gershonites acted “under the direction of Aaron and his sons,” illustrating healthy accountability.Hebrews 13:17 echoes this principle: leaders watch over souls and give an account.
at the LORD’s commandUltimately, the census and assignments originated with God, not human preference (Numbers 4:49). Divine command gives ordinary tasks eternal weight.John 14:15 ties love for God to obedience: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”
summaryNumbers 4:41 records a meticulous count of Gershonite men assigned to care for the tabernacle’s fabric and cords. Their census highlights individual worth, inherited calling, Spirit-directed service, accountable leadership, and God-given authority. In every generation, the Lord still assigns specific, meaningful work to His people and calls us to carry it out with precise, willing obedience.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Theseאֵ֣לֶּה(’êl·leh)Pronoun - common plural
Strong's 428:These, thosewere countedפְקוּדֵ֗י(p̄ə·qū·ḏê)Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine plural construct
Strong's 6485:To visit, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, depositfrom the Gershoniteגֵרְשׁ֔וֹן(ḡê·rə·šō·wn)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1648:Gershon -- a son of Leviclansמִשְׁפְּחֹת֙(miš·pə·ḥōṯ)Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 4940:A family, circle of relatives, a class, a species, sort, a tribe, peoplewho servedהָעֹבֵ֖ד(hā·‘ō·ḇêḏ)Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 5647:To work, to serve, till, enslaveat the Tentבְּאֹ֣הֶל(bə·’ō·hel)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 168:A tentof Meeting,מוֹעֵ֑ד(mō·w·‘êḏ)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4150:Appointed time, place, or meetingwhomאֲשֶׁ֨ר(’ă·šer)Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834:Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order thatMosesמֹשֶׁ֛ה(mō·šeh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4872:Moses -- a great Israelite leader, prophet and lawgiverand Aaronוְאַהֲרֹ֖ן(wə·’a·hă·rōn)Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 175:Aaron -- an elder brother of Mosescountedפָּקַ֥ד(pā·qaḏ)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6485:To visit, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, depositatעַל־(‘al-)Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againstthe LORD’sיְהוָֽה׃(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelcommand.פִּ֥י(pî)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6310:The mouth, edge, portion, side, according to
Links Numbers 4:41 NIVNumbers 4:41 NLTNumbers 4:41 ESVNumbers 4:41 NASBNumbers 4:41 KJV
Numbers 4:41 BibleApps.comNumbers 4:41 Biblia ParalelaNumbers 4:41 Chinese BibleNumbers 4:41 French BibleNumbers 4:41 Catholic Bible
OT Law: Numbers 4:41 These are those who were numbered (Nu Num.) |
