patronymically from an unused name meaning a hinge; a Puthite (collectively) or descendants of an unknown Puth; Puhites (as if from פּוּאָה).
Transliteration:Pûwthîy
Pronunciation:poo-thee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6336}}` (Pûwthîy) is a patronymic noun, denoting a descendant or a collective group of descendants. Its base definition indicates it is derived from an "unused name meaning a hinge," which suggests a speculative etymological root for the progenitor's name, Puth. However, the primary semantic function of `{{H6336}}` is to identify a specific family or clan: "a Puthite (collectively) or descendants of an unknown Puth." The Strong's definition further clarifies, noting "Puhites (as if from פּוּאָה)," which links it to `{{H6328}}` (Puah), suggesting either an alternative spelling, a closely related branch, or a perceived identity between the two, despite potentially distinct etymological origins for the root names. Thus, its core meaning centers on tribal or clan affiliation within ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H6336}}` (Pûwthîy) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Numbers 26:23]]. This occurrence is found within the second census of the Israelites, taken in the plains of Moab before their entry into Canaan. The verse reads: "Of Issachar, the families thereof: of Tola, the family of the Tolaites; of Puvah, the family of the Puhites; of Jashub, the family of the Jashubites; of Shimron, the family of the Shimronites." Here, "Puhites" (פּוּתִי) clearly identifies a specific clan within the tribe of Issachar, descended from Puvah (or Puah, `{{H6328}}`). The context of Numbers 26 is crucial; it is a detailed genealogical record, meticulously listing the families and clans of each tribe. This census served not only to enumerate the fighting men but also to establish the basis for the division of the land of Canaan by inheritance, ensuring that each family received its allotted portion according to the divine decree. The inclusion of the Puhites underscores the comprehensive nature of this divine record-keeping and the importance of lineage for Israelite identity and land tenure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{H6328}}` (Puah or Puvah), which is explicitly linked in the definition of `{{H6336}}` as the progenitor from whom the Puhites are descended. In the genealogical lists, variations in spelling or transliteration for the same individual or clan are not uncommon, suggesting that Puth and Puah likely refer to the same ancestral figure. Beyond this direct lexical link, `{{H6336}}` connects to broader biblical concepts:
* **Genealogy and Lineage:** The meticulous recording of family lines, crucial for establishing identity, inheritance rights, priestly succession, and ultimately, the messianic line.
* **Tribal Structure of Israel:** The division of the nation into twelve tribes, each with its internal clan structure, reflecting God's ordered arrangement of His people.
* **Census and Divine Order:** The censuses in Numbers are not merely demographic exercises but acts of divine administration, demonstrating God's knowledge of His people and His preparation for their future in the Promised Land.
* **Patronymics:** The common Hebrew practice of forming names or group designations based on an ancestral father (e.g., "sons of").
### Theological Significance
While a seemingly minor detail within a long genealogical list, the inclusion of the Puhites (`{{H6336}}`) carries significant theological weight. It speaks to:
* **Divine Meticulousness and Providence:** God's detailed knowledge and ordering of His people. Every individual and family, even those not prominent in grand narratives, is known and accounted for in His divine plan. This reflects God's sovereignty over history and His personal involvement in the lives of His covenant people.
* **Covenant Faithfulness:** The preservation and detailing of tribal and clan lineages were essential for the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, particularly concerning the inheritance of the land of Canaan ([[Numbers 26:52-56]]) and the future advent of the Messiah, whose lineage would be traced through specific tribes and families.
* **Identity and Belonging:** For the Israelite, their family and tribal affiliation were fundamental to their identity within the covenant community. Being a "Puhite" meant belonging to a specific part of God's chosen nation, with a defined heritage and future inheritance.
* **Theological Foundation for Land Distribution:** The census, including the Puhites, served as the divine blueprint for the equitable distribution of the land, demonstrating God's justice and faithfulness in providing for each family according to their numbers.
### Summary
`{{H6336}}` (Pûwthîy) designates the "Puhites," a specific clan descended from Puah (`{{H6328}}`) within the tribe of Issachar. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Numbers 26:23]] places it within the context of the second Israelite census, highlighting its role in establishing tribal identity and preparing for the land distribution in Canaan. This seemingly small detail underscores profound theological truths: God's meticulous ordering of His people, His faithfulness to His covenant promises regarding land and lineage, and the importance of belonging within His divine plan. The Puhites, like all recorded families, are a testament to God's comprehensive knowledge and sovereign care for every part of His chosen nation.
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