The Hebrew word ʼAsrîyʼêl, represented by H844, is the name given to two Israelites, with the spelling variant Ashriel. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The name's primary function is to identify a specific individual within the genealogies of Israel, particularly within the tribe of Manasseh.
In the biblical narrative, H844 is used to establish tribal lineage and inheritance rights. Ashriel is listed as one of the sons of Manasseh 1 Chronicles 7:14. His significance is further clarified in the allocation of land, where the children of Asriel receive a lot among the families of the male children of Manasseh Joshua 17:2. The name also marks the beginning of a new family line, as seen in the census recorded in Numbers, which identifies "of Asriel, the family of the Asrielites" Numbers 26:31.
Several related words help clarify Asriel's position within the tribal structure:
- H4519 Mᵉnashsheh (Manasseh): This name represents the tribe to which Asriel belongs. Asriel is identified as one of the sons of Manasseh H4519, linking his family directly to one of the sons of Joseph Joshua 17:2.
- H845 ʼAsriʼêlîy (Asrielites): This is the patronymic derived directly from Asriel, denoting his descendants as a collective group. The census explicitly connects the man to his lineage: "of Asriel, the family of the Asrielites" Numbers 26:31.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): This word, meaning a circle of relatives or a tribe, is central to understanding Asriel's role. He is the head of one of the families of Manasseh Joshua 17:2, which in turn establishes the family of the Asrielites Numbers 26:31.
The genealogical significance of H844 is precise and foundational for his descendants.
- Tribal Ancestry: Asriel serves as a key link in the lineage of Manasseh. He is named as a direct descendant who continues the family line 1 Chronicles 7:14.
- Inheritance Rights: His inclusion in the list of Manasseh's sons ensures his offspring, the "children of Asriel," have a legal right to a portion of the land given to the tribe Joshua 17:2.
- Clan Formation: The name Asriel is not just personal but foundational. It gives rise to a recognized clan, "the family of the Asrielites" H845, which forms a distinct unit within the larger tribe of Manasseh during the census Numbers 26:31.
In summary, H844 is the proper name Asriel, an important figure in the lineage of Manasseh. Though mentioned only a few times, his name is critical for establishing a specific family's genealogical identity, its right to inheritance in the promised land, and its place within the tribal census of Israel. The name illustrates how an individual ancestor serves as the foundation for a larger family clan that persists through generations.
TRV