The Hebrew name ʻÊrîy, represented by H6179, means watchful and identifies an Israelite man named Eri. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name's significance is purely genealogical, marking a specific individual within the patriarchal lineage of the tribes of Israel.
In the biblical narrative, ʻÊrîy is introduced as one of the sons of Gad, who was a son of Jacob. His name is recorded in the list of Jacob's descendants who went into Egypt Genesis 46:16. This initial mention establishes his identity and placement within the tribe of Gad. Later, in the book of Numbers, a census is taken of the Israelite tribes, and Eri is again mentioned, this time as the progenitor of "the family of the Erites" Numbers 26:16, confirming his role as the founder of a specific clan.
Several related words help clarify the role and context of ʻÊrîy in the scriptures:
- H1121 bên (a son): This term defines the direct genealogical link of ʻÊrîy as one of the sons of Gad Genesis 46:16.
- H1410 Gâd (Gad, a son of Jacob): As the patriarch of the tribe, Gad is the father of ʻÊrîy, situating him within one of the twelve tribes of Israel Genesis 46:16.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (a family, i.e. circle of relatives): This word is used to identify the clan descended from ʻÊrîy, known as "the family of the Erites" Numbers 26:16.
- H6180 ʻÊrîy (a Erite (collectively) or descendants of Eri): This patronymic term is derived directly from the name Eri and is used to identify his descendants as a collective group, the Erites Numbers 26:16.
The significance of H6179 is rooted in its function within the biblical genealogies.
- Genealogical Preservation: The inclusion of ʻÊrîy in the formal listings of Jacob's descendants underscores the importance of lineage and maintaining the tribal records of Israel Genesis 46:16.
- Foundation of a Clan: ʻÊrîy is identified not only as an individual but as the head of a family line, the Erites Numbers 26:16. This shows the biblical model where individuals become the progenitors of larger family units that form the fabric of the nation.
- Tribal Identity: As a son of Gad, ʻÊrîy and his descendants are a recognized part of the tribe of Gad. These detailed family lists were crucial for establishing tribal identity, inheritance rights, and the organization of the people of Israel.
In summary, ʻÊrîy H6179 is a name that functions as a vital genealogical marker. While the individual Eri is not a major character in any narrative, his name is preserved in scripture to document the lineage of the tribe of Gad and to identify the origin of the Erites clan. His inclusion demonstrates the meticulous care taken to record the family lines that constituted the nation of Israel, reflecting the importance of every family in the unfolding story of God's covenant people.
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