Book of Numbers - Chapter 3 - Verse 17

The verse "And these were the sons of Levi by their names; Gershon, and Kohath, and Merari." from the book of Exodus chapter 6, verse 17, provides a genealogical account of the sons of Levi, who was one of the sons of Jacob. This verse specifically lists the names of the sons of Levi, namely Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. In the context of the broader narrative of the Bible, the Levites were chosen by God to serve as priests and caretakers of the Tabernacle, the sacred tent used for worship and sacrifices. Each of the sons of Levi played a specific role within the Levitical priesthood. Gershon was responsible for the transportation of the Tabernacle's curtains and hangings, while Kohath handled the holy items such as the ark of the covenant. Merari's descendants were tasked with transporting the structural components of the Tabernacle. Understanding the significance of these names and roles provides a deeper insight into the organization and responsibilities of the Levites within the religious practices of the ancient Israelites.

Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, was the founder of the priestly tribe of Levi. In this particular verse, the descendants of Levi are listed by name - Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Each of these names carries significance in the theological interpretation of the verse. Gershon means "expelled" or "stranger," which might symbolize the wandering nature of the Levites as they served in various roles within the community. Kohath means "assembly" or "congregation," reflecting the Levites' role in leading worship and communal gatherings. Merari means "bitter," possibly alluding to the hardships and challenges the Levites faced in their service to God. Through word studies of these names, we can gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and spiritual significance of the Levites' role within the Israelite community. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of genealogy and lineage in the biblical narrative, connecting the present generation to their ancestors and their shared faith.