Gershon

Gershon is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin, which is also used as a surname in Jewish communities. The given name is commonly transliterated as Gershon or Gershom in English. It is typically interpreted as meaning “a stranger” or “a sojourner,” reflecting an older sense of wandering or residing among others.

In the Hebrew Bible, Gershon (Gershon) is the eldest son of Levi and the progenitor of the Gershonites, one of the Levitical clans. The Gershonites are described as entrusted with specific duties related to the care and transport of the Tabernacle’s fabrics, coverings, and hangings. They formed part of the broader Levitical appointment for service in the Tabernacle and, later, in the Temple.

Modern usage centers on Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, where Gershon remains a common given name for males. It is also found as a surname among Ashkenazi Jews, typically derived from the given name of an ancestor.

Notable people with the name include Gina Gershon, an American actress. The name Gershon is recognized for its biblical roots and continued use within Jewish cultural and religious communities, though it is less common as a surname or given name outside those contexts.