The Hebrew word Shuthalchîy, represented by H8364, is a patronymic term meaning a Shuthalhite or, collectively, the descendants of Shuthelach. It is a highly specific genealogical identifier that appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its role in documenting a particular family line.
The single appearance of H8364 is in Numbers 26:35, during a census of the Israelite tribes. This verse outlines the clans within the tribe of Ephraim. The text states, "of Shuthelah H7803, the family H4940 of the Shuthalhites H8364". This usage firmly establishes the Shuthalhites as a specific family H4940 group that traces its lineage directly back to an ancestor named Shuthelah, identifying them as part of the larger tribe of Ephraim H669.
Several related words provide the genealogical framework for understanding the Shuthalhites:
- H7803 Shûwthelach (Shuthelah): The patriarch from whom the Shuthalhites H8364 descend. He is named as one of the sons H1121 of Ephraim H669, establishing the family's origin Numbers 26:35.
- H669 ʼEphrayim (Ephraim): The larger tribe to which the Shuthalhites belong. As one of the sons of Joseph, Ephraim's descendants formed a prominent and numerous tribe within Israel Numbers 26:35.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): This word defines the societal unit of the Shuthalhites. It is used repeatedly in the census to categorize each clan, signifying a circle of relatives or a tribe Numbers 26:35.
- H1076 Bakrîy (Bachrites): The descendants of Becher, another family within Ephraim listed in the same verse, showing the parallel structure of the census Numbers 26:35.
- H8470 Tachănîy (Tahanites): The descendants of Tahan, also listed alongside the Shuthalhites as a distinct family of Ephraim, reinforcing the context of a detailed tribal enumeration Numbers 26:35.
The significance of H8364 is rooted in its function within the biblical record of lineage and covenant.
- Covenantal Lineage: The precise recording of family lines, such as the Shuthalhites, was essential for establishing tribal identity, which was directly linked to inheritance rights and covenantal blessings within Israel Leviticus 25:10.
- Divine Accounting: The inclusion of this specific family in the census demonstrates God's detailed knowledge and preservation of His people. God's special knowledge of "all the families H4940 of the earth" is a theme that applies to His specific care for the families of Israel Amos 3:2.
- Ephraimite Identity: As part of the tribe of Ephraim, the Shuthalhites belong to a lineage that God refers to as His "firstborn" Jeremiah 31:9, indicating a position of honor and significance within the nation of Israel.
In summary, Shuthalchîy H8364 serves a singular but vital purpose in scripture. It is a precise genealogical marker that officially documents the family descended from Shuthelah within the tribe of Ephraim. While appearing only once, its presence in the census of Numbers is a testament to the importance of lineage in the biblical narrative, which underpins the structure of Israelite society and the unfolding of God's covenant promises to His people.
TRV