### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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