patronymically from בְּרִיעָה; a Beriite (collectively) or descendants of Beriah; Beerites.
Transliteration:Bᵉrîyʻîy
Pronunciation:ber-ee-ee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בְּרִיעִי (Bᵉrîyʻîy), Strong's number `{{H1284}}`, is a patronymic noun derived from the personal name בְּרִיעָה (Beriah, `{{H1283}}`). As a patronymic, its core meaning denotes "descendants of Beriah" or "those belonging to Beriah's family." It functions as a collective designation for a specific clan or family unit within a larger tribal structure. Its semantic range is therefore quite narrow, exclusively identifying a particular lineage rather than conveying a broader concept or action. It signifies membership and familial connection to the ancestor Beriah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term בְּרִיעִי (Bᵉrîyʻîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Numbers:
* [[Numbers 26:45]]: "Of the sons of Asher: of Imnah, the family of the Imnites; of Ishvi, the family of the Ishvites; of Beriah, the family of the Beriites."
This sole occurrence is found within the second census of Israel, recorded in Numbers 26. This census was conducted on the plains of Moab, prior to Israel's entry into the Promised Land, serving to enumerate the fighting men and to prepare for the division of the land by tribes and families. The verse specifically lists the families descended from Asher, one of Jacob's sons. Beriah is identified as one of Asher's sons, and the "Beriites" are his descendants, counted among the clans of Asher. The context underscores the meticulous attention to genealogical records and tribal organization, which was foundational for the social, military, and land-allotment structures of ancient Israel. The inclusion of the Beriites highlights their distinct identity and their rightful place within the larger tribal framework of Asher, and by extension, within the nation of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of בְּרִיעִי (Bᵉrîyʻîy) is intrinsically linked to several related words and concepts:
* **בְּרִיעָה (Beriah, `{{H1283}}`):** This is the eponymous ancestor from whom the Beriites derive their name. Beriah is listed as one of the sons of Asher ([[Genesis 46:17]], [[Numbers 26:44]], [[1 Chronicles 7:30]]). Understanding the ancestor's identity is crucial to understanding the group.
* **אָשֵׁר (Asher, `{{H836}}`):** The tribe to which the Beriites belonged. The listing in [[Numbers 26:45]] places the Beriites firmly within the tribal lineage of Asher, demonstrating their sub-group identity within the larger tribal collective.
* **Patronymic:** The linguistic principle by which a group or individual is named after an ancestor. The form of בְּרִיעִי clearly demonstrates this grammatical function, adding the "ite" suffix to the ancestor's name.
* **Census and Genealogy:** The broader biblical context of Numbers 26 emphasizes the importance of meticulously recording genealogies and conducting censuses. These practices were vital for establishing tribal identity, determining eligibility for military service, and ensuring the equitable distribution of the Promised Land.
* **Clan/Family (מִשְׁפָּחָה, `{{H4940}}`):** The Beriites represent a "family" or "clan" unit within the larger tribe, highlighting the hierarchical structure of Israelite society.
### Theological Significance
While בְּרִיעִי (Bᵉrîyʻîy) refers to a specific family, its inclusion in the biblical record carries significant theological weight.
* **Divine Order and Covenant Faithfulness:** The meticulous enumeration of families like the Beriites in the census of Numbers 26 reflects God's ordered plan for His people. It underscores the divine faithfulness in preserving the tribal structures and lineages through generations, even after the wilderness wanderings. This preservation was essential for the fulfillment of the covenant promises, particularly concerning the inheritance of the land ([[Numbers 26:52-56]]).
* **Identity and Inheritance:** Being identified as a "Beriite" meant possessing a clear identity and a specific place within the covenant community. This identity was directly linked to the right of inheritance in the Promised Land. Every family, no matter how small, was accounted for and had a stake in God's provision. This speaks to God's attention to detail and His provision for each segment of His people.
* **Continuity of God's People:** The recording of the Beriites, alongside other families, demonstrates the continuity of God's people from the generation that left Egypt to the generation poised to enter Canaan. It signifies the enduring nature of the covenant relationship between God and Israel through successive generations.
### Summary
The term בְּרִיעִי (Bᵉrîyʻîy), Strong's number `{{H1284}}`, is a patronymic denoting the "descendants of Beriah." This specific family unit, originating from Beriah, a son of Asher, is mentioned only once in the Bible, in [[Numbers 26:45]]. Its singular appearance within the second census of Israel highlights the meticulous attention to genealogical records crucial for tribal organization and the equitable distribution of the Promised Land. The existence and documentation of the Beriites, alongside other clans, underscore God's divine order, His faithfulness in preserving the identity and inheritance of His covenant people, and the continuity of Israel's lineage as they prepared to enter their promised inheritance.
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