### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻÊrîy**, represented by `{{H6179}}`, means **watchful** and identifies an Israelite man named **Eri**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name's significance is purely genealogical, marking a specific individual within the patriarchal lineage of the tribes of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **ʻÊrîy** is introduced as one of the **sons** of **Gad**, who was a son of Jacob. His name is recorded in the list of Jacob's descendants who went into Egypt [[Genesis 46:16]]. This initial mention establishes his identity and placement within the tribe of Gad. Later, in the book of Numbers, a census is taken of the Israelite tribes, and **Eri** is again mentioned, this time as the progenitor of "the family of the Erites" [[Numbers 26:16]], confirming his role as the founder of a specific clan.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of **ʻÊrîy** in the scriptures:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This term defines the direct genealogical link of **ʻÊrîy** as one of the **sons** of Gad [[Genesis 46:16]].
* `{{H1410}}` **Gâd** (Gad, a son of Jacob): As the patriarch of the tribe, **Gad** is the father of **ʻÊrîy**, situating him within one of the twelve tribes of Israel [[Genesis 46:16]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (a family, i.e. circle of relatives): This word is used to identify the clan descended from **ʻÊrîy**, known as "the **family** of the Erites" [[Numbers 26:16]].
* `{{H6180}}` **ʻÊrîy** (a Erite (collectively) or descendants of Eri): This patronymic term is derived directly from the name **Eri** and is used to identify his descendants as a collective group, the **Erites** [[Numbers 26:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6179}}` is rooted in its function within the biblical genealogies.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The inclusion of **ʻÊrîy** in the formal listings of Jacob's descendants underscores the importance of lineage and maintaining the tribal records of Israel [[Genesis 46:16]].
* **Foundation of a Clan:** **ʻÊrîy** is identified not only as an individual but as the head of a family line, the **Erites** [[Numbers 26:16]]. This shows the biblical model where individuals become the progenitors of larger family units that form the fabric of the nation.
* **Tribal Identity:** As a son of Gad, **ʻÊrîy** and his descendants are a recognized part of the tribe of Gad. These detailed family lists were crucial for establishing tribal identity, inheritance rights, and the organization of the people of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻÊrîy** `{{H6179}}` is a name that functions as a vital genealogical marker. While the individual **Eri** is not a major character in any narrative, his name is preserved in scripture to document the lineage of the tribe of Gad and to identify the origin of the **Erites** clan. His inclusion demonstrates the meticulous care taken to record the family lines that constituted the nation of Israel, reflecting the importance of every family in the unfolding story of God's covenant people.
TRV