Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who were the sons of Gershon mentioned in Numbers 3:18?
A: The sons of Gershon were Livni and Shim῾i. Gershon was the eldest son of Levi, making his descendants part of the Levite tribe responsible for specific duties in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that these names signify their roles and lineage within the tribe.
Q: Why does the Torah list the names of Gershon's sons?
A: The Torah lists the names of Gershon's sons to establish their family lineage and their responsibilities in the Mishkan. According to Rambam, the Levites were divided into groups, and Gershon's descendants were tasked with transporting the coverings and curtains of the Mishkan during the Israelites' travels in the wilderness.
Q: What can we learn from the mention of Gershon's family in the Torah?
A: This verse teaches the importance of family lineage and assigned roles in serving Hashem. The Midrash highlights that every individual and family has a unique purpose in the divine plan, just as Gershon's descendants had specific duties in the Mishkan.
Q: How does the division of Levite families apply today?
A: While we no longer have the Mishkan or Temple, the principle of assigned roles in communal service remains relevant. The Talmud (Arachin 11b) discusses how Levites had distinct responsibilities, teaching us that everyone should contribute to the community according to their strengths and heritage.
Q: What is the significance of the names Livni and Shim῾i?
A: Rashi suggests that names in the Torah often reflect character traits or roles. 'Livni' may be connected to purity (from 'lavan,' meaning white), and 'Shim῾i' relates to hearing ('shama'), possibly indicating their attentiveness to divine service. The Midrash often explores deeper meanings behind biblical names.
Verse Context
The verse (Bamidbar 3:21) lists the sons of Gershon, the eldest son of Levi, and their families. This appears in the broader context of the census and duties of the Levites in the wilderness.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) notes that the Torah specifies the names of Gershon's sons—Livni and Shim῾i—to establish their lineage for their assigned roles in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). He emphasizes that the term "לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָם" (by their families) indicates these were distinct clans with specific responsibilities, particularly in transporting the coverings and curtains of the Mishkan (Bamidbar 4:24-26).
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchot Klei HaMikdash (3:1-2) discusses the hereditary nature of the Levitical roles. The mention of Livni and Shim῾i underscores that their descendants inherited their duties, ensuring continuity in the sacred service.
Midrashic Insights
Practical Implications
The verse teaches the importance of structured roles within Klal Yisrael, where each family’s unique contribution is vital. The Levites'分工 (division of labor) mirrors the principle of "כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה" (all Jews are responsible for one another), as each group upheld a part of the collective service.