from נְמוּאֵל; a Nemuelite, or descendant of Nemuel; Nemuelite.
Transliteration:Nᵉmûwʼêlîy
Pronunciation:nem-oo-ay-lee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5242}}` (Nemu'eliy) is a gentilic noun, derived directly from the proper name `{{H5241}}` (Nemu'el). As such, its core meaning denotes "a descendant of Nemuel" or "one belonging to the family or clan of Nemuel." This word functions primarily to identify a specific lineage or tribal subdivision within ancient Israel. While the etymology of the root name `{{H5241}}` might suggest meanings like "God is day" or "day of God," this semantic layer does not directly transfer to the gentilic form, which strictly indicates familial affiliation. The semantic range of `{{H5242}}` is therefore limited to tribal identity and descent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5242}}` occurs explicitly once in the Hebrew Bible, within the book of Numbers:
* [[Numbers 26:12]]: "The sons of Simeon according to their families: of Nemuel, the family of the Nemuelites (הַנְּמוּאֵלִי); of Jamin, the family of the Jaminites; of Jachin, the family of the Jachinites;"
This occurrence is situated within the detailed census of the second generation of Israelites in the wilderness, specifically in the plains of Moab, prior to their entry into the Promised Land. The purpose of this census was multifaceted: to enumerate the fighting men, to establish the tribal and clan structure for land distribution, and to confirm the faithfulness of God's promise to multiply Abraham's descendants. The mention of "the family of the Nemuelites" here serves to delineate one of the five principal clans descended from Simeon, son of Jacob, thereby affirming their place within the divinely ordered tribal system. The meticulous recording of such specific family units underscores the importance of lineage and inheritance in the Mosaic covenant.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H5241}}` (Nemu'el), the progenitor of this clan. Nemuel is listed as a son of Simeon in [[Numbers 26:12]] and [[1 Chronicles 4:24]]. It is noteworthy that he is identified as "Jemuel" in earlier genealogies, specifically [[Genesis 46:10]] and [[Exodus 6:15]]. This variation (Jemuel/Nemuel) is likely a scribal or phonetic difference for the same individual, indicating a consistent lineage despite the orthographic shift.
Beyond the direct progenitor, `{{H5242}}` is intrinsically linked to the broader concept of gentilic nouns in Hebrew, which are prevalent throughout the Pentateuch and historical books (e.g., Reubenites, Gadites, Judahites). These terms are crucial for understanding:
* **Tribal Identity:** They define belonging to a specific tribe or sub-clan, which determined social standing, rights, and responsibilities.
* **Genealogy:** They are foundational to the meticulous genealogical records that trace the lineage of God's chosen people, culminating in the Messiah.
* **Inheritance:** In the context of the land distribution, knowing one's clan (e.g., Nemuelite) was vital for claiming one's allotted portion.
* **Covenant Relationship:** The identity of "Israel" was not merely a collection of individuals but a divinely organized nation, structured by families and tribes.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of `{{H5242}}` and similar gentilic terms in the biblical record carries significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Faithfulness to Covenant:** The meticulous enumeration of families like the Nemuelites demonstrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars ([[Genesis 15:5]]) and would become a great nation ([[Genesis 12:2]]). Each named family represents a tangible fulfillment of this divine oath.
2. **Order and Structure in God's People:** The detailed genealogies and tribal divisions reveal God's desire for order and structure within His chosen people. Israel was not a chaotic multitude but a divinely organized community, where each family had its unique place and purpose. This underscores God's providential care over the minute details of His people's lives and collective identity.
3. **Importance of Identity and Belonging:** For the ancient Israelite, their identity as a Nemuelite, a Simeonite, and ultimately an Israelite, was paramount. This familial and tribal belonging provided a framework for their existence, their responsibilities, and their inheritance. It speaks to a universal human need for belonging, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in being part of God's covenant people.
4. **Preparation for the Promised Land:** The census in Numbers 26, which includes the Nemuelites, was a crucial step in preparing Israel to inherit the land. It was a tangible demonstration that God was bringing them into their inheritance as an organized, identifiable nation, ready to receive the blessings of the covenant.
### Summary
`{{H5242}}` (Nemu'eliy) is a gentilic noun meaning "a descendant of Nemuel" or "one belonging to the family of Nemuel." Its sole occurrence in [[Numbers 26:12]] places it within the context of the second wilderness census, where it designates a specific clan within the tribe of Simeon. The word is directly derived from `{{H5241}}` (Nemuel), the progenitor of this lineage. Theologically, the presence and precise recording of such terms highlight God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, His divine ordering of the nation of Israel, and the profound significance of identity and belonging within the covenant community as they prepared to enter their inheritance.
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