Topical Encyclopedia The Arodites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are identified as descendants of Arod, one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Arodites are thus part of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to the Arodites is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. In Numbers 26:17 , it states: "These were the clans of Gad, and their registration numbered 40,500." The Arodites are specifically mentioned in the context of this census, as part of the larger enumeration of the tribe of Gad. Genealogical Context: The tribe of Gad was one of the tribes that settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This area was known for its fertile land and strategic location. The Arodites, as descendants of Arod, would have been part of this tribal allotment. The genealogical records in the Bible serve to establish the identity and heritage of the Israelites, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding their descendants. Historical and Cultural Significance: The Arodites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, played a role in the social and military structure of ancient Israel. The tribe of Gad was known for its warriors, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:8 : "Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were mighty men of valor, trained for battle, expert with shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains." While the Arodites are not specifically mentioned in this context, their inclusion in the tribe of Gad suggests they shared in this martial heritage. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of the Arodites underscores the importance of lineage and covenant in the biblical narrative. The detailed genealogies found in the Scriptures highlight God's faithfulness in preserving the line of Israel, through which He would ultimately bring about His redemptive plan. The Arodites, as part of the tribe of Gad, contribute to the larger tapestry of God's chosen people, through whom He would reveal His law, His prophets, and ultimately, the Messiah. Conclusion: The Arodites, though briefly mentioned, are a testament to the intricate and purposeful design of God's plan for His people. Their inclusion in the biblical record serves as a reminder of the importance of each tribe and clan in the unfolding account of Israel and God's covenantal promises. Smith's Bible Dictionary Arodites[AROD] International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARODITESa'-rod-its. See AROD. Strong's Hebrew 722. Arodi -- a son of Gad, also descendant of Arod... of Arod NASB Word Usage Arodi (1), Arodites (1). Arodi, Arodites. Patronymic from 'Arvadiy; an Arodite or descendant of Arod -- Arodi, Arodites. ... /hebrew/722.htm - 6k Thesaurus Arodites (1 Occurrence)...ARODITES. a'-rod-its. See AROD. ...Arodites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:17 of Arod, the family of the Arodites; of Areli, the family of the Arelites. ... /a/arodites.htm - 6k Arod (1 Occurrence) Ar'odites (1 Occurrence) Arodite (1 Occurrence) Clan (96 Occurrences) Arelites (1 Occurrence) Ar'od (1 Occurrence) Are'lites (1 Occurrence) Areli (2 Occurrences) Are'li (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Arodites (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:17 Subtopics Related Terms |