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Libni

Old TestamentEgypt & WildernessMaleLeviteSon

Libni or Ladan, a son of Gershon and grandson of Levi (Exo.6.17; Num.3.18; 1Ch.6.17,20; 23.7-9; 26.21).

Libni illustration
Libni

Biography

Libni was a son of Gershon and grandson of the patriarch Levi, making him part of the first generation of Levitical families organized for service to God. He appears in the genealogical records of Exodus 6:17, Numbers 3:18, and 1 Chronicles 6:17, 20. Also known by the alternate name Ladan (1 Chronicles 23:7-9; 26:21), Libni became the founder of the Libnite clan, one of the major subdivisions within the Gershonite branch of the Levites. His descendants were assigned specific duties in the tabernacle service, particularly the care of the tent coverings, curtains, and hangings of the tabernacle court. The Libnite family continued to serve in Israel's worship through the monarchy period, with their roles evolving as temple worship replaced tabernacle service.

Significance

Libni's importance lies in his role as a founding ancestor of one of the key Levitical clans responsible for Israel's worship infrastructure. The Libnites, descended from him, bore sacred responsibilities in transporting and maintaining the tabernacle during the wilderness wanderings (Numbers 3:21-26). His dual naming as Libni and Ladan across different biblical sources demonstrates how Israel carefully preserved genealogical records to validate priestly and Levitical service rights. His lineage illustrates God's principle of setting apart specific families for sacred duties, establishing an ordered system of worship that foreshadowed the priesthood of all believers in the New Covenant.

Authority Records
FatherGershonChildJahath

Verse Appearances (9)

References

  1. Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
  2. Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
  3. Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
  4. Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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