Topical Encyclopedia Gershom is the firstborn son of Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites, and his wife Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, the priest of Midian. The name "Gershom" is significant in its meaning, as Moses himself explains in Exodus 2:22 : "She gave birth to a son, and Moses named him Gershom, saying, 'I have become a foreigner in a foreign land.'" This name reflects Moses' experience of living in exile from his people and his homeland, Egypt, during his time in Midian.Biblical References and Context Gershom is first mentioned in the Book of Exodus, where his birth is recorded during Moses' sojourn in Midian. After fleeing from Egypt, Moses settled in the land of Midian, where he married Zipporah and started a family. Gershom's birth is a pivotal moment in Moses' life, marking a period of transition and preparation for his future role as the deliverer of Israel. In Exodus 4:20 , as Moses prepares to return to Egypt to lead the Israelites out of bondage, it is noted: "So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and started back to the land of Egypt. And he took the staff of God in his hand." This passage indicates that Gershom, along with his brother Eliezer, accompanied Moses on this significant journey, although the narrative does not provide further details about Gershom's role or experiences during the Exodus. Role and Significance While Gershom does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his existence is a testament to Moses' personal life and the fulfillment of God's promises to him. Gershom's life is intertwined with the broader account of the Israelites' deliverance and the establishment of their covenant relationship with God. In 1 Chronicles 23:15-16 , Gershom is mentioned in the genealogical records: "The sons of Moses: Gershom and Eliezer. The descendants of Gershom: Shebuel was the first." This genealogical note highlights the continuation of Moses' lineage through Gershom, emphasizing the importance of family heritage and the transmission of faith and leadership within the Israelite community. Theological Implications Gershom's account, though brief, underscores themes of identity, belonging, and divine providence. His name serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the reality of living as sojourners in a world that is not our ultimate home. For Moses, Gershom's birth was a tangible expression of God's faithfulness during a period of exile and uncertainty. Furthermore, Gershom's inclusion in the genealogical records of Israel signifies the enduring legacy of Moses' family and the role of his descendants in the unfolding history of God's people. Through Gershom, the narrative of God's redemptive plan continues, linking the past with the future and affirming the continuity of God's covenant promises. Conclusion While Gershom may not be a central figure in the biblical narrative, his life and lineage are integral to understanding the personal and familial dimensions of Moses' account. His presence in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the complexities of identity and the faithfulness of God in the lives of His people. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 2:22And she bore him a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, I have been a stranger in a strange land. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 18:3 1 Chronicles 23:15,16 1 Chronicles 26:24 Library The Boyhood and Training of Moses Here Next Followeth the History of Moses Gershom and Eliezer Chapter xlvi The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Did Moses have children? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jonathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Zipporah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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