The Hebrew word Yachlᵉʼêlîy, represented by H3178, is a patronymic term meaning a Jachleelite or descendant of Jachleel; Jahleelites. As a highly specific genealogical label, its use in scripture is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in a single verse. Its function is to identify a particular family line descending from an individual named Jahleel.
The sole biblical appearance of H3178 is within a census recorded in the book of Numbers. The verse documents the lineage of the tribe of Zebulun, listing the sons H1121 of Zebulun H2074 according to their families H4940. In this context, the text states, "of Jahleel H3177, the family H4940 of the Jahleelites H3178" Numbers 26:26. This entry serves to formally record the existence of this specific clan as a recognized family unit within the larger tribal structure of Israel.
Several related words provide the genealogical framework for understanding the Jahleelites:
- H3177 Yachlᵉʼêl: The progenitor of this family line, whose name means "expectant of God". He is identified as one of the sons of Zebulun Genesis 46:14. The term Yachlᵉʼêlîy is formed directly from his name.
- H2074 Zᵉbûwlûwn: The patriarch of the tribe to which this family belongs. The Jahleelites are a clan within the broader tribe of Zebulun Numbers 26:26.
- H4940 mishpâchâh: Translated as family, this word defines the primary social and genealogical unit. It is used repeatedly in Numbers 26:26 to organize the clans, including the Sardites, the Elonites, and the Jahleelites.
- H1121 bên: This word for son is foundational to establishing the lines of descent, identifying individuals like Sered, Elon, and Jahleel as the sons of Zebulun Genesis 46:14.
While not carrying broad theological weight due to its singular use, the existence of H3178 is significant for what it reveals about biblical record-keeping:
- Genealogical Precision: The term's specificity highlights the importance placed on accurately documenting every family H4940 and clan within Israel. The census in Numbers 26:26 is a testament to this meticulous accounting.
- Tribal Structure: It provides a clear example of the structured nature of Israelite identity, where a clan like the Jahleelites was defined by its connection to an ancestor, Jahleel H3177, and its place within a tribe, Zebulun H2074.
- Patronymic Legacy: The formation of the word itself illustrates the biblical convention of naming a group of descendants after their founder, ensuring the preservation of the ancestral name within the national consciousness.
In summary, H3178 Yachlᵉʼêlîy is a specific genealogical term used once in scripture to identify a family clan. Its sole appearance in Numbers 26:26 firmly places the Jahleelites within the tribe of Zebulun. Though limited in scope, the word serves as a valuable indicator of the Bible's emphasis on precise lineage, tribal identity, and the preservation of ancestral heritage.
TRV