### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **Lᵉʼummîym**, represented by `{{H3817}}`, refers to an Arabian people or community, Leummim. It is an exceptionally specific word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its base definition indicates it is the plural of a word meaning "communities."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3817}}` is in a genealogical record found in [[Genesis 25:3]]. Here, the **Leummim** are listed as one of the descendant peoples, or "sons," of **Dedan** `{{H1719}}`. The verse establishes a clear lineage: "And Jokshan begat Sheba, and Dedan. And the sons of Dedan were Asshurim, and Letushim, and **Leummim**." This places them firmly within the context of early Arabian tribes descending from patriarchal figures.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its genealogical context help clarify its position:
* `{{H1719}}` **Dᵉdân**: The direct progenitor of the Leummim. Dedan is identified as the name of two Cushites and their territory, who fathered several distinct peoples [[Genesis 25:3]].
* `{{H3370}}` **Yoqshân**: The grandfather of the Leummim. Jokshan is noted as an Arabian patriarch and the father of Sheba and Dedan [[Genesis 25:3]].
* `{{H3912}}` **Lᵉṭûwshim**: A "brother" tribe to the Leummim, also descended from Dedan. The name identifies them as an Arabian tribe, the Letushim [[Genesis 25:3]].
* `{{H805}}` **ʼĂshûwrîy**: Another people descended from Dedan alongside the Leummim, identified as the Asshurim or inhabitants of Ashur [[Genesis 25:3]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad**: The verb used to establish this lineage, meaning to **beget** or specifically, to show lineage [[Genesis 25:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3817}}` is tied entirely to its role in biblical genealogy and the peopling of nations.
* **Detailed Lineage:** The mention of **Leummim** demonstrates the scripture's precision in accounting for the various tribes that descended from key figures, establishing their place within the biblical world [[Genesis 25:3]].
* **Arabian Ancestry:** As descendants of **Jokshan** `{{H3370}}`, who is recorded as a son of Abraham's concubine Keturah [[1 Chronicles 1:32]], the **Leummim** are part of the broader family of peoples with Abrahamic roots.
* **Establishment of Communities:** The name itself, meaning "communities," points to its function in the text: to identify a distinct group that originated from a specific patriarch, **Dedan** `{{H1719}}`, and formed its own communal identity.
### Summary
In summary, **Lᵉʼummîym** `{{H3817}}` is a specific genealogical term rather than a major theological concept. Its only appearance in [[Genesis 25:3]] serves to identify one of the many Arabian communities that descended from Dedan. While a minor detail, its inclusion highlights the Bible’s comprehensive approach to recording the origins and relationships of the ancient peoples of the world.
TRV