### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAsriʼêlîy**, represented by `{{H845}}`, is a patronymic term identifying the descendants of Asriel. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term collectively refers to this specific lineage as the **Asrielites**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H845}}` is found in a genealogical listing within the book of Numbers. In this context, the term **Asrielites** is used to designate the **family** that descended from a man named Asriel [[Numbers 26:31]]. This usage establishes a clear line of descent and identifies a specific family unit within the larger tribal structure of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the genealogical context of the Asrielites:
* `{{H844}}` **ʼAsrîyʼêl**: The progenitor of the family line, identified as a son of Manasseh ([[Joshua 17:2]], [[1 Chronicles 7:14]]). The term Asrielites is derived directly from his name.
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh**: This word for **family** or **kindred** is directly paired with `{{H845}}` to define the Asrielites as a distinct family unit [[Numbers 26:31]].
* `{{H7928}}` **Shekem**: An individual whose descendants are listed in parallel with Asriel's in the census of Numbers [[Numbers 26:31]].
* `{{H7930}}` **Shikmîy**: The patronymic for the descendants of Shechem, the **Shechemites**, who are mentioned alongside the **Asrielites** as a distinct family [[Numbers 26:31]].
### Theological Significance
The term `{{H845}}` carries significance through its role in biblical genealogy and its connection to covenant promises.
* **Lineage and Inheritance:** The specific naming of the **Asrielites** as a **family** `{{H4940}}` in a census was crucial for establishing their claim to a portion of the promised land, as lots were divided among the families of Manasseh [[Joshua 17:2]].
* **Covenant Identity:** Being counted among the families of Israel was a sign of belonging to God's chosen people. God's relationship with Israel is often described in terms of families or kindreds ([[Amos 3:2]], [[Psalms 22:27]]).
* **Family as a Core Unit:** The identification of a specific family line like the **Asrielites** underscores the importance of the **family** `{{H4940}}` as the fundamental building block of the nation, through which blessings and identity were passed down.
### Summary
In summary, **ʼAsriʼêlîy** `{{H845}}` is a precise genealogical term used to identify the **Asrielites**, the descendants of Asriel. Though it appears only once, its usage in [[Numbers 26:31]] is vital for understanding the structure of Israelite society. It demonstrates how individual lineage was formally recognized and recorded, which was foundational for matters of inheritance and tribal identity within the covenant community.
TRV