patronymically from בֶּלַע; a Belaite (collectively) or descendants of Bela; Belaites.
Transliteration:Balʻîy
Pronunciation:bel-ee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בַּלְעִי (Balʻîy), transliterated as Balʻîy, is a patronymic noun derived from the proper noun בֶּלַע (Belaʻ) `{{H1105}}`. As a patronymic, it denotes a descendant or collective group associated with the individual Bela. The suffix "-î" functions to create an adjectival or nominative form indicating belonging, origin, or affiliation. Therefore, Balʻîy specifically refers to the "Belaite" or "descendants of Bela." The root name Belaʻ `{{H1105}}` itself is often associated with meanings such as "swallowing" or "devouring," though this semantic range does not directly transfer to the patronymic beyond identifying the progenitor. The primary meaning of Balʻîy is purely genealogical: identifying a specific family line within the larger tribal structure of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term בַּלְעִי (Balʻîy) appears exclusively in [[Numbers 26:38]]. This occurrence is found within the detailed census of the Israelites taken in the plains of Moab, prior to their entry into the Promised Land. The verse states: "The sons of Bela were Ard and Naaman; of Ard, the family of the Ardites; of Naaman, the family of the Naamites." While the verse itself does not explicitly use "Belaites," the context of the surrounding verses in [[Numbers 26]] consistently lists the "families" (מִשְׁפָּחָה, *mishpachah*) descended from the sons of the patriarchs. The patronymic Balʻîy, though not directly in the text of [[Numbers 26:38]] in this specific form, is the collective noun for the descendants of Bela, who is identified as a son of Benjamin in [[Genesis 46:21]] and [[1 Chronicles 7:6]].
The purpose of this census in Numbers 26 was twofold: to count the fighting men for military organization and to establish the basis for land distribution in Canaan, with each family receiving an inheritance according to its numbers. The mention of Bela and his descendants, the Belaites, within this meticulous genealogical record underscores their specific identity and allocated place within the tribal inheritance of Benjamin. This singular, yet significant, occurrence highlights the importance of precise lineage for the fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is בֶּלַע (Belaʻ) `{{H1105}}`, the name of the patriarch from whom the Belaites descended. There are several individuals named Bela in the Old Testament:
* Bela, the firstborn son of Benjamin ([[Genesis 46:21]], [[Numbers 26:38]], [[1 Chronicles 7:6]]). This is the Bela relevant to the Belaites of the tribe of Benjamin.
* Bela, a king of Edom ([[Genesis 36:32]], [[1 Chronicles 1:43]]).
* Bela, a Reubenite ([[1 Chronicles 5:8]]).
The concept of patronymics itself is crucial to understanding ancient Israelite society. Numerous other groups are identified in a similar manner (e.g., "Reubenites" from Reuben, "Gadites" from Gad, "Levites" from Levi). This linguistic pattern reflects the societal emphasis on:
* **Lineage and Descent:** Identity was deeply intertwined with one's ancestral line.
* **Tribal Organization:** Patronymics served to delineate the various clans and families within the twelve tribes, crucial for social order, military structure, and land inheritance.
* **Covenant Continuity:** The meticulous preservation of family records ensured the continuity of God's covenant people and the proper fulfillment of promises related to land and blessings.
### Theological Significance
The existence and meticulous recording of family lines like the Belaites carry significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Order and Providence:** The detailed genealogies in books like Numbers and Chronicles demonstrate God's meticulous ordering of His people. Every family, down to the Belaites, had a specific place and purpose within the divine plan. This reflects God's providential care in structuring His covenant community.
2. **Fulfillment of Covenant Promises:** The counting and organization of the Israelite families, including the Belaites, directly relates to the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding innumerable descendants and the inheritance of the land. Each family unit was a vital component in the realization of this promise.
3. **Identity and Belonging:** For the individual Israelite, belonging to a specific family like the Belaites provided a profound sense of identity, heritage, and belonging within the larger community of God's chosen people. It was a tangible link to the past, present, and future of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh.
4. **Preservation of God's People:** Through generations of trials and wilderness wanderings, the distinct family lines, including the Belaites, were preserved. This testifies to God's faithfulness in maintaining His people despite their challenges and failures, ensuring the continuity of the covenant line.
### Summary
The term בַּלְעִי (Balʻîy), or "Belaite," refers specifically to the descendants of Bela, primarily Bela the son of Benjamin. Its singular occurrence in [[Numbers 26:38]] highlights its role in the meticulous census taken before Israel's entry into Canaan. This patronymic underscores the profound importance of lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel, serving to delineate specific family units for purposes of military organization, land inheritance, and the overall structure of the covenant community. Theologically, the careful recording of such family lines like the Belaites speaks to God's divine order, His faithfulness in fulfilling covenant promises, and the deep sense of identity and belonging afforded to His people within His providential plan.
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