The Hebrew word Nᵉmûwʼêlîy, represented by H5242, is a patronymic term meaning a Nemuelite, or a descendant of Nemuel. It is derived from the proper name Nemuel H5241. This word appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, where its function is to identify a specific family line within the tribe of Simeon.
The sole biblical use of H5242 is found in a genealogical census in the book of Numbers. It is used to designate "the family of the Nemuelites" as a distinct clan descended from Nemuel, who was one of the sons H1121 of Simeon H8095. This reference occurs within a structured list of Simeon's descendants, where each family H4940 is named after its progenitor Numbers 26:12.
Several related words provide the genealogical framework for H5242:
- H5241 Nᵉmûwʼêl (Nemuel, the name of two Israelites): This is the direct ancestor from whom the Nemuelites are named. He is identified as one of the sons of Simeon Numbers 26:12.
- H8095 Shimʻôwn (hearing; Shimon, one of Jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him): As the patriarch of the tribe, Simeon is the grandfather of the Nemuelite clan Numbers 26:12.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (a family, i.e. circle of relatives): This word defines the Nemuelites as a "family" or clan unit within the larger tribe of Simeon Numbers 26:12.
- H3228 Yᵉmîynîy (a Jeminite (collectively) or descendants of Jamin): This term appears in the same verse, identifying the descendants of Jamin H3226, another son of Simeon, and illustrates the parallel naming convention for clans Numbers 26:12.
- H3200 Yâkîynîy (a Jakinite (collectively) or descendants of Jakin): Also listed in the same passage, this term identifies the family descended from Jachin H3199, demonstrating the structured accounting of Simeon's tribe Numbers 26:12.
The significance of H5242 is primarily genealogical and administrative, providing insight into Israelite social structure.
- Tribal Organization: The term is essential for documenting the internal structure of the tribe of Simeon. It shows how a large tribe was composed of smaller family H4940 units, each tracing its lineage to a specific ancestor Numbers 26:12.
- Patronymic Identity: As a patronymic, "Nemuelite" is a clear example of how identity was tied to ancestry in ancient Israel. The name itself signifies belonging to the lineage of Nemuel H5241.
- Establishing Lineage: Its use in the census of Numbers 26 highlights the importance of maintaining precise family records. The term helps to officially establish a specific family H4940 as a recognized part of the nation Numbers 26:12.
In summary, H5242 is a highly specific genealogical term rather than a word with broad conceptual meaning. Its single occurrence in Scripture serves the vital function of naming a particular family, the Nemuelites, within the tribe of Simeon. The word's importance lies in its role within the biblical system of tracing lineage, demonstrating how individual and group identity was fundamentally rooted in family H4940 and ancestry Numbers 26:12.
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