### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phylḗ**, represented by `{{G5443}}`, refers to an offshoot, such as a race or clan, and is translated as **kindred** or **tribe**. It appears **31 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. It is a term used to define groups of people by common ancestry or lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5443}}` is frequently used to identify the **twelve tribes of Israel**, establishing national and personal identity. James addresses his epistle to "the twelve **tribes** which are scattered abroad" [[James 1:1]], and Jesus promises the apostles they will sit on thrones judging "the twelve **tribes** of Israel" [[Matthew 19:28]]. This specific lineage is also noted for individuals, such as Paul from the **tribe** of Benjamin [[Romans 11:1]] and Anna from the **tribe** of Aser [[Luke 2:36]]. The word also has a broader, global application, particularly in eschatological passages, where "all the **tribes** of the earth" will mourn at Christ's return [[Matthew 24:30]], and the redeemed are gathered from "every **kindred**" [[Revelation 5:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of people groups and lineage:
* `{{G1085}}` **génos** ("kin"... generation, kind(-red), nation, offspring, stock): This term often specifies a broader heritage or line of descent. Paul uses it to define his identity as being of the **stock** of Israel and from the **tribe** of Benjamin [[Philippians 3:5]].
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (a race... a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one... Gentile, heathen, nation, people): This word is frequently used alongside `{{G5443}}` to describe the full scope of humanity, including both Jewish tribes and other nations, as seen in the song of the redeemed who come from every kindred and **nation** [[Revelation 5:9]].
* `{{G1100}}` **glōssa** (the tongue; by implication, a language): This term categorizes people by their language. It often appears in a list with `{{G5443}}` to emphasize the universal reach of God's plan, which includes people from every kindred, **tongue**, people, and nation [[Revelation 5:9]].
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (a people): This word refers to a people in general and is also used in conjunction with `{{G5443}}`. In Revelation, a great multitude is seen from all nations, kindreds, and **people** [[Revelation 7:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5443}}` is significant in both a specific and universal sense.
* **Israel's Covenant Identity:** The word underscores the importance of lineage within God's covenant with Israel. The sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation is meticulously organized by **tribe** [[Revelation 7:4-8]], and the gates of the New Jerusalem are named for "the twelve **tribes** of the children of Israel" [[Revelation 21:12]].
* **Christ's Lineage and Authority:** `{{G5443}}` is used to establish the specific tribal origin of key figures. Jesus is identified as "the Lion of the **tribe** of Juda" [[Revelation 5:5]], fulfilling prophecies about His royal line. The book of Hebrews contrasts this with the Levitical priesthood, noting that Jesus sprang from a different **tribe**, one from which "no man gave attendance at the altar" [[Hebrews 7:13]].
* **Universal Scope of God's Plan:** The term is expanded beyond Israel to encompass all of humanity. The gospel is to be preached to "every nation, and **kindred**, and tongue, and people" [[Revelation 14:6]]. This universal scope applies to both redemption through Christ's blood [[Revelation 5:9]] and the coming judgment when "all **kindreds** of the earth shall wail" [[Revelation 1:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5443}}` functions on two levels. It precisely defines the lineage and covenant identity of the **tribes** of Israel, which is foundational to understanding biblical history and prophecy. Simultaneously, it is used to express the all-encompassing nature of God's redemptive plan and final judgment, which extends to every **kindred** and clan on earth, from the Lion of the **tribe** of Juda to the great multitude that no man could number.
TRV