### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gûwnîy**, represented by `{{H1477}}`, is a patronymic term for the **Gunites**, or the descendants of Guni. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This word specifically denotes a family group identified by their descent from a common ancestor, functioning as a collective label for a particular lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H1477}}` is found within a census of the Israelite tribes. In the accounting of the tribe of Naphtali, the scripture lists the various family groups: "Of the sons of Naphtali after their families: of Jahzeel, the family of the Jahzeelites: of Guni, the family of the **Gunites**" [[Numbers 26:48]]. This context establishes the Gunites as a recognized family unit descended from an individual named Guni, situating them within the larger tribal structure of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the Gunites:
* `{{H1476}}` **Gûwnîy** (Guni): This is the proper name of the ancestor from whom the Gunites `{{H1477}}` descend. He is identified as one of the sons of Naphtali [[Genesis 46:24]] and the head of this family line.
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word is used directly with `{{H1477}}` to define the Gunites as a "family" or "kindred" [[Numbers 26:48]]. It signifies a circle of relatives and is foundational to Israel's social and tribal organization [[Leviticus 25:10]].
* `{{H5321}}` **Naphtâlîy** (Naphtali): This refers to the tribe to which the Gunites belong. The census in [[Numbers 26:48]] explicitly places the family of the Gunites among the sons of Naphtali, the son of Jacob.
* `{{H3184}}` **Yachtsᵉʼêlîy** (Jahzeelites): Mentioned in the same verse, this term for the descendants of Jahzeel serves as a parallel example of how patronymics were used to identify distinct family lines within a single tribe [[Numbers 26:48]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1477}}` is primarily genealogical and structural rather than theological.
* **Patronymic Identity:** The word is a clear example of a patronymic, where a group's identity is derived directly from its founder, Guni `{{H1476}}`. This naming convention underscores the importance of patriarchal lineage in the Old Testament.
* **Tribal Organization:** The inclusion of the Gunites in the census of Numbers demonstrates the meticulous organization of Israelite society. Each family (mishpâchâh) was accounted for within its respective tribe.
* **Lineage and Inheritance:** Being officially recorded as a family unit like the Gunites was essential for establishing rights to inheritance and a portion of the land, which was allotted according to families within each tribe [[Numbers 26:48]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1477}}` is a highly specific term that identifies a particular family, the **Gunites**. Though it appears only once, its usage in the census of Numbers is significant. It illustrates the foundational role of family and lineage in structuring the nation of Israel, showing how individual patriarchal lines like that of Guni formed the building blocks of the tribes, such as Naphtali.
TRV