Gershom is the firstborn son of Moses and Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, the priest of Midian. His name, meaning "a stranger there," reflects Moses' experience of being a foreigner in a foreign land (Exodus 2:22). Gershom's birth is recorded during Moses' time in Midian, where he fled after killing an Egyptian. The name signifies Moses' sense of exile and alienation from his people in Egypt.

Gershom, along with his brother Eliezer, is mentioned in the context of the journey back to Egypt when God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of bondage (Exodus 18:3-4). Although Gershom does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his descendants, the Gershonites, become one of the Levitical families responsible for the care of the tabernacle. The Gershonites were tasked with the transportation and maintenance of the tabernacle's curtains, coverings, and other fabric elements (Numbers 3:25-26).

Kohath

Kohath is the second son of Levi and the progenitor of the Kohathite clan, one of the three main divisions of the Levites. Kohath's descendants include some of the most significant figures in Israel's religious history, such as Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. The Kohathites held a special role in the service of the tabernacle, being responsible for the most sacred objects, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, the altars, and the sacred utensils (Numbers 4:4-15).

The Kohathites were not given carts or oxen for transportation, as their duties required them to carry these holy items on their shoulders, emphasizing the sanctity and reverence due to these objects (Numbers 7:9). This responsibility highlights the Kohathites' significant role in maintaining the spiritual life of Israel. The Kohathite lineage continued to be influential, with notable descendants such as Samuel, the prophet and judge, who played a crucial role in the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.

Merari

Merari is the third son of Levi and the founder of the Merarite clan, another division of the Levites. The Merarites were assigned the task of caring for the structural components of the tabernacle, including the frames, crossbars, posts, and bases (Numbers 3:36-37). Their responsibilities were essential for the assembly and disassembly of the tabernacle as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness.

The Merarites were provided with carts and oxen to assist in transporting these heavy materials, reflecting the practical nature of their duties (Numbers 7:8). The Merarite clan, like the other Levitical families, played a vital role in the religious life of Israel, ensuring that the tabernacle, the center of worship and God's presence among His people, was properly maintained and transported.

The descendants of Merari continued to serve in various capacities throughout Israel's history, contributing to the worship and service in the temple established by Solomon. The Merarites' dedication to their duties exemplifies the broader Levitical commitment to serving God and His people.