Topical Encyclopedia Arod is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. He is identified as one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The name "Arod" is believed to mean "descendant" or "fugitive," though the exact etymology is not definitively established.Biblical References: Arod is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, which provides a census of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Numbers 26:17 , the text states: "These were the descendants of Gad by their clans: The Zephonite clan from Zephon, the Haggite clan from Haggi, the Shunite clan from Shuni, the Oznite clan from Ozni, the Erite clan from Eri, the Arodite clan from Arod, and the Arelite clan from Areli." This passage places Arod within the context of the tribal organization of Israel, highlighting his role as the progenitor of the Arodite clan. The enumeration of the clans serves to emphasize the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the multiplication of his descendants and their eventual settlement in the Promised Land. Tribal Significance: As a member of the tribe of Gad, Arod's lineage is part of the larger narrative of the Israelite tribes. The tribe of Gad was known for its warrior-like characteristics and played a significant role in the conquest and settlement of Canaan. The Gadites settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, an area known for its fertile land suitable for livestock, which was in line with the tribe's pastoral lifestyle. The mention of Arod and his descendants in the census underscores the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. Each clan within a tribe had specific roles and responsibilities, contributing to the overall functioning and cohesion of the nation. Cultural and Theological Context: In the broader theological context, the genealogies and tribal records in the Bible serve multiple purposes. They not only provide historical and cultural insights but also reinforce the themes of covenant and divine faithfulness. The listing of Arod among the descendants of Gad is a testament to the continuity of God's promises through successive generations. The genealogical records also highlight the interconnectedness of the tribes of Israel, each contributing to the fulfillment of God's plan for His chosen people. Arod's inclusion in these records, though brief, is part of the larger tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the collective identity and destiny of the nation as ordained by God. Conclusion: While Arod is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his mention in the genealogical records of Numbers reflects the importance of lineage and tribal affiliation in the history of Israel. As a descendant of Gad, Arod's legacy is preserved within the context of the Israelite community, contributing to the fulfillment of God's covenantal promises to the patriarchs. Smith's Bible Dictionary Arod(a wild ass), a son of Gad, (Numbers 26:17) called ARODI in (Genesis 46:16) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARODa'-rod, ar'-od ('arodh): The sixth son of Gad (Numbers 26:17). His descendants are called Arodi or Arodites (Genesis 46:16 Numbers 26:17). Strong's Hebrew 720. Arod -- a son of Gad... 719, 720. Arod. 721 . a son of Gad. Transliteration: Arod Phonetic Spelling: (ar-ode') Short Definition: Arod. Word Origin of uncertain ... /hebrew/720.htm - 6k 6171. arod -- a wild donkey 722. Arodi -- a son of Gad, also descendant of Arod 6167. arad -- a wild donkey Library Chapter xlvi Thesaurus Arod (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AROD. a'-rod, ar'-od ('arodh): The sixth son of Gad (Numbers 26:17). ... Multi-Version Concordance Arod (1 Occurrence). ... /a/arod.htm - 7k Ar'od (1 Occurrence) Arodites (1 Occurrence) Clan (96 Occurrences) Arelites (1 Occurrence) Are'lites (1 Occurrence) Ar'odites (1 Occurrence) Arodite (1 Occurrence) Areli (2 Occurrences) Ass (95 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Arod (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:17 Subtopics Related Terms |