### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שִׁלֵּמִי (Shillêmîy), designated by Strong's `{{H8016}}`, functions as a patronymic noun. Its base definition indicates a collective group: "a Shilemite" or, more commonly, "the Shillemites," referring to the descendants of an individual named Shillem. The word is derived from the proper noun שִׁלֵּם (Shillem), `{{H8015}}`, signifying a direct familial lineage. As a patronymic, its primary semantic range is limited to identifying a specific family or clan within a larger tribal structure, emphasizing their shared ancestry. It carries no inherent moral, theological, or abstract meaning beyond this genealogical designation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term שִׁלֵּמִי appears uniquely in the biblical text within the book of Numbers, specifically in the context of the second census of Israel, taken in the plains of Moab before their entry into Canaan.
* **[[Numbers 26:49]]**: "Of Shillem, the family of the Shillemites."
This verse is part of a detailed enumeration of the families within the tribe of Naphtali. Shillem is identified as one of the four sons of Naphtali (alongside Jahzeel, Guni, and Jezer), and his descendants are subsequently named "the Shillemites." The purpose of this census was twofold: to count the fighting men for military organization and, crucially, to establish the basis for the division of the land of Canaan by inheritance. Each family, including the Shillemites, was allocated land based on its numerical strength, as explicitly stated in [[Numbers 26:52-56]]. The precise identification of such family units underscores the meticulous nature of the Mosaic law and the divine ordering of the Israelite community. The listing of the Shillemites, therefore, is not merely a historical record but a foundational element for their claim to the Promised Land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of שִׁלֵּמִי naturally connects to several broader biblical concepts and related terms:
* **שִׁלֵּם (Shillem, `{{H8015}}`)**: The direct progenitor from whom the Shillemites derive their name. Understanding the individual Shillem (son of Naphtali) is prerequisite to understanding his descendants.
* **Patronymics in Scripture**: The Bible is replete with patronymic designations (e.g., "Israelites" from Israel, "Levites" from Levi, "Jahzeelites" from Jahzeel in the same chapter). These terms are fundamental to establishing tribal and family identity, lineage, and often, specific roles or inheritances.
* **Genealogy**: The broader biblical emphasis on genealogies, particularly in books like Genesis, Numbers, 1 Chronicles, and the Gospels. These genealogies serve to establish identity, inheritance rights, priestly lines, and ultimately, the messianic lineage. The listing of the Shillemites contributes to this overarching genealogical framework.
* **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**: The concept of the twelve tribes of Israel and their subdivisions. The Shillemites represent one such subdivision within the tribe of Naphtali, highlighting the importance of maintaining distinct family identities for the purpose of land distribution and social order in the nascent nation.
### Theological Significance
While שִׁלֵּמִי itself is a purely descriptive term, its inclusion in the biblical narrative carries significant theological weight, reflecting divine principles:
* **Divine Order and Providence**: The meticulous listing of every family, down to the Shillemites, demonstrates God's precise ordering of His people. It speaks to a divine providence that oversees even the seemingly minor details of human lineage and societal structure. This level of detail underscores God's active involvement in the establishment and organization of Israel.
* **Covenant Fidelity**: The census, which includes the Shillemites, directly precedes the entry into the Promised Land and the distribution of inheritance. This act fulfills God's covenant promises to Abraham regarding his numerous descendants and their possession of the land ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18]]). The identification of each family, therefore, is a testament to God's faithfulness in bringing His promises to fruition across generations.
* **Identity and Belonging**: For the individual Shillemite, being part of this enumerated family provided a clear sense of identity and belonging within the larger covenant community. This familial and tribal identity was crucial for their participation in the life of Israel, their claim to land, and their role in the unfolding divine plan.
* **Theological Foundation for Inheritance**: The very existence and enumeration of the Shillemites, like other families, served as a divine warrant for their claim to a portion of the land. This highlights a theological principle that inheritance in the Promised Land was not arbitrary but rooted in God's covenant and meticulously recorded lineage.
### Summary
The term שִׁilֵּמִי (`{{H8016}}`) refers to the descendants of Shillem, a son of Naphtali, serving as a patronymic identifier for a specific family within the tribe. Its sole occurrence in [[Numbers 26:49]] places it within the critical context of the second census of Israel, which established the basis for land inheritance in Canaan. While seemingly a minor detail, the inclusion of the Shillemites underscores the biblical emphasis on precise genealogy, tribal identity, and the meticulous divine ordering of God's covenant people. Theologically, it points to God's faithful providence in fulfilling His promises, ensuring the identity and inheritance of each family within Israel, and demonstrating His active involvement in the historical and social fabric of His chosen nation.
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