Who Was Gershom in the Bible?
Gershom is a name that appears in the Old Testament, referring to two distinct individuals. The name Gershom (Hebrew: גֵּרְשֹׁם, meaning “sojourner” or “foreigner”) is significant both in its meaning and in the roles played by the bearers of this name. The two primary Gershoms mentioned are the son of Moses and the son of Phineas, each contributing to different aspects of Israelite history.
Gershom, Son of Moses
Background and Early Life
Gershom, the firstborn son of Moses and Zipporah, is introduced in Exodus 2:22. His name, meaning “sojourner,” reflects Moses’ life at the time of Gershom’s birth. Moses was living in Midian, having fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian. The name symbolizes Moses’ status as a foreigner in a strange land, highlighting themes of displacement and exile that are recurrent in biblical narratives. Gershom’s brother, Eliezer, was also born during this period of Moses’ life in Midian.
Gershom’s Lineage and Descendants
Gershom is part of a significant lineage, being a direct descendant of Levi and part of the Levitical tribe. His lineage continued through his sons, notably Jonathan and Shebuel. 1 Chronicles 23:15-16 and 1 Chronicles 24:20 mention these descendants, with Shebuel serving as a leader among the Levites. Jonathan is mentioned in Judges 18:30, where he is identified as a priest for the tribe of Dan, though there is some ambiguity about his exact relationship to Gershom.
Gershom, Son of Phineas
Return from Babylonian Exile
A different Gershom, identified as the son of Phineas, is listed among those who returned from the Babylonian exile with Ezra in Ezra 8:2. This return was a significant event in Israelite history, marking the end of the Babylonian captivity and the restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple. The inclusion of Gershom in this list indicates his role in the spiritual and communal restoration of the Jewish people during this critical period.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The lives and stories of the two Gershoms in the Bible offer valuable lessons for Christians today, emphasizing themes of identity, heritage, and the importance of faithfulness.
The Significance of Names and Identity
The name Gershom, meaning “sojourner,” reflects a fundamental biblical theme of being strangers and pilgrims on earth. This resonates with the New Testament teaching found in 1 Peter 2:11, where believers are described as “foreigners and exiles.” Christians are reminded that their ultimate citizenship is in heaven, and they are to live as temporary residents in this world, maintaining a heavenly perspective and lifestyle.
Faithfulness in Diverse Roles
Gershom, the son of Moses, and Gershom, the son of Phineas, both served in different capacities but contributed significantly to Israel’s history. Gershom, Moses’ son, continued the Levitical lineage, while Gershom, the son of Phineas, played a part in the post-exilic restoration. This diversity in roles underscores the importance of faithfulness in whatever capacity one is called to serve. For modern Christians, this teaches the value of each individual’s unique role in the body of Christ, as articulated in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.
Connection to a Loving God
The stories of Gershom also highlight God’s faithfulness and love for His people, regardless of their circumstances.
God’s Care for the Sojourner
Gershom’s name and the circumstances of his family’s life reflect the biblical theme of God’s care for the sojourner. This is evident in God’s provision for Moses and his family during their time in Midian, and later for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. Deuteronomy 10:18 emphasizes God’s concern for the foreigner, orphan, and widow, highlighting His loving and inclusive nature.
Restoration and Hope
The mention of Gershom, the son of Phineas, in the context of the return from Babylonian exile underscores God’s commitment to restoring His people. This return was not just a physical restoration but also a spiritual renewal. It highlights God’s unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, providing hope and a future for His people, as echoed in Jeremiah 29:11.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The narratives involving Gershom ultimately point forward to the greater fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ.
Jesus, the Ultimate Sojourner
Jesus Christ, in many ways, embodies the role of the ultimate sojourner. He left the glory of heaven to dwell among humanity, fully experiencing the human condition. As described in John 1:14, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill the law and the prophets, providing a perfect model of faithfulness and obedience.
The Fulfillment of Restoration in Christ
Just as Gershom’s story includes themes of displacement and restoration, Jesus’ mission brings ultimate spiritual restoration. Through His sacrifice, believers are reconciled to God, breaking down the barriers of sin and opening the way to eternal life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Conclusion
The story of Gershom, encompassing both the son of Moses and the son of Phineas, provides rich lessons for modern Christians about identity, faithfulness, and God’s providential care. These narratives emphasize that, like the biblical Gershoms, believers are sojourners on earth, called to live faithfully in their unique roles. They also highlight God’s unwavering love and His ultimate plan of restoration, which is fully realized in Jesus Christ. Through these stories, Christians are encouraged to trust in God’s promises, live out their faith with integrity, and share in the hope of Christ’s eternal kingdom.