### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שָׁאוּלִי (Shâʼûwlîy, `{{H7587}}`) functions as a patronymic adjective, signifying descent or belonging to the individual named שָׁאוּל (Shaul, `{{H7586}}`). Its core meaning is "of Shaul" or "descendant of Shaul." As such, its semantic range is narrow, serving primarily as a proper noun to denote a specific familial or tribal subdivision. It does not carry broader abstract or symbolic meanings beyond its genealogical function. The name Shaul itself, from which this patronymic is derived, means "asked of God" or "lent," suggesting a connection to the circumstances of the progenitor's birth or dedication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term שָׁאוּלִי (Shâʼûwlîy, `{{H7587}}`) appears in the biblical text exclusively in the book of Numbers, specifically within the context of the second census of Israel, taken on the plains of Moab before entering Canaan.
* [[Numbers 26:13]]: "Of Shaul, the family of the Shaulites."
This solitary occurrence is found within the detailed genealogies of the tribes of Israel, specifically under the tribe of Simeon. [[Numbers 26:12-14]] lists the families descending from Simeon's sons: Nemuel, Jamin, Jachin, Zerah, and Shaul. The mention of "the family of the Shaulites" (מִשְׁפַּחַת הַשָּׁאוּלִי) serves to identify a distinct clan or subdivision within the tribe of Simeon, tracing its lineage back to Shaul, one of Simeon's sons. The meticulous enumeration of these families underscores the importance of tribal and familial identity in ancient Israel, particularly concerning the allocation of land in Canaan and the maintenance of covenantal order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the proper noun שָׁאוּל (Shaul, `{{H7586}}`), the progenitor from whom the Shaulites derive their name. Shaul was a son of Simeon, one of Jacob's twelve sons. The broader context includes the tribe of שִׁמְעוֹן (Simeon, `{{H8045}}`), to which the Shaulites belonged. This highlights the hierarchical structure of Israelite society, organized by tribes, clans, and families, all tracing their lineage back to the patriarchs.
The concept of patronymics itself is crucial, as many Israelite family and tribal names are formed this way (e.g., Reubenites, Gadites, Kohathites). This linguistic feature reflects the deep cultural significance of ancestry and lineage in establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social standing within the covenant community. The detailed censuses, such as the one in [[Numbers 26]], serve to document this intricate web of relationships, ensuring the orderly fulfillment of God's promises regarding land and people.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of the Shaulites, alongside other families, in the detailed census of Numbers carries significant theological weight.
1. **Divine Order and Providence:** The meticulous record-keeping of Israelite families, even seemingly minor ones, testifies to God's precise and orderly nature. It demonstrates His providential hand in preserving and organizing His people according to His divine plan for their inheritance of the Promised Land.
2. **Covenant Faithfulness:** The continued existence and enumeration of these families, despite the challenges of the wilderness wandering and various acts of disobedience, highlight God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding their numerous descendants and their possession of the land. Each family, including the Shaulites, represents a living fulfillment of these ancient pledges.
3. **Identity and Belonging:** For the Shaulites, their name was not merely a label but a profound marker of their identity within the covenant community. It signified their heritage, their place within the tribe of Simeon, and their share in the collective destiny of Israel as God's chosen people. This sense of belonging was foundational to their corporate and individual spiritual life.
4. **Continuity of God's Plan:** The listing of generations, from the patriarchs down to specific families like the Shaulites, underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan across history. It reminds us that God works through specific individuals and families to accomplish His overarching purposes, weaving together countless lives into the grand narrative of salvation.
### Summary
The term שָׁאוּלִי (Shâʼûwlîy, `{{H7587}}`) designates "a descendant of Shaul," specifically referring to a family within the tribe of Simeon. Its singular biblical appearance in [[Numbers 26:13]] is crucial for understanding the meticulous genealogical records of Israel, which served to establish tribal identity, confirm inheritance rights, and demonstrate God's orderly preparation for the entry into the Promised Land. The existence and enumeration of the Shaulites, like other Israelite families, underscore the divine faithfulness to covenant promises, the importance of lineage in biblical thought, and the intricate way God orchestrates the lives of His people to fulfill His redemptive purposes throughout history.
TRV