Topical Encyclopedia Asriel is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical and tribal records of the Israelites. His name, Asriel (Hebrew: אַשְׂרִיאֵל), is often interpreted to mean "God is my help" or "God has bound me." Asriel is recognized as a descendant of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, who was the son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel.Biblical References: 1. Numbers 26:31 : Asriel is first mentioned in the census of the Israelites conducted by Moses and Eleazar the priest in the plains of Moab by the Jordan River, across from Jericho. The passage states, "These were the descendants of Gilead: the Asrielite clan from Asriel, the Shechemite clan from Shechem." 2. Joshua 17:2 : Asriel is again mentioned in the context of the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh. The verse reads, "So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These were the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph by their clans." 3. 1 Chronicles 7:14 : The genealogical record in Chronicles provides additional context for Asriel's lineage. It states, "The descendants of Manasseh: Asriel, whom his Aramean concubine bore; she gave birth to Makir the father of Gilead." Tribal Significance: Asriel is associated with the tribe of Manasseh, one of the two half-tribes that descended from Joseph. The tribe of Manasseh was significant in the history of Israel, receiving a large portion of land on both sides of the Jordan River. Asriel's descendants, known as the Asrielites, were part of this tribal inheritance and played a role in the settlement and development of the region. Genealogical Context: The genealogical records in the Bible often serve to establish the heritage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites. Asriel's mention in these records underscores the importance of lineage and inheritance in the biblical narrative. His connection to Manasseh highlights the continuation of Joseph's legacy through his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who were adopted by Jacob as his own sons (Genesis 48:5). Cultural and Historical Insights: The mention of Asriel's mother as an Aramean concubine in 1 Chronicles 7:14 provides insight into the cultural and familial dynamics of the time. This detail reflects the interactions and intermarriages between the Israelites and neighboring peoples, which were common in the ancient Near East. Such relationships often influenced the social and political landscape of the region. Theological Implications: Asriel's inclusion in the biblical genealogies serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises to the patriarchs. The preservation and expansion of the tribes of Israel, including the descendants of Asriel, demonstrate the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Through these genealogies, the Bible emphasizes the continuity of God's plan for His chosen people. In summary, Asriel is a notable figure within the tribal and genealogical framework of the Old Testament, representing the enduring legacy of the tribe of Manasseh and the broader narrative of God's covenantal relationship with Israel. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary AsrielSmith's Bible Dictionary Asrielthe son of Gilead and great-grandson of Manasseh. (Numbers 26:31; Joshua 17:2) He was the founder of the family of the Asrielites. (B.C. 1444.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASRIELas'-ri-el ('asri'-el, "Vow of God"?): A man of Manasseh (Numbers 26:31 Joshua 17:2). The form Asrielites, i.e. family of Asriel, occurs in Numbers 26:31. According to 1 Chronicles 7:14, Asriel was born to Manasseh by an Aramitess concubine. the King James Version has "Ashnel." Strong's Hebrew 844. Asriel -- a Manassite... 843, 844. Asriel. 845 . a Manassite. Transliteration: Asriel Phonetic Spelling: (as-ree-ale') Short Definition: Asriel. Word Origin ... /hebrew/844.htm - 6k 845. Asrieli -- descendant of Asriel Thesaurus Asriel (3 Occurrences)...ASRIEL. as'-ri-el ('asri'-el, "Vow of God"?): A man of Manasseh (Numbers 26:31 Joshua 17:2). The form Asrielites, ie family of Asriel, occurs in Numbers 26:31. ... /a/asriel.htm - 8k As'ri-el (2 Occurrences) As'riel (1 Occurrence) Shechem (61 Occurrences) Descendant (32 Occurrences) Makir (17 Occurrences) Asrielite (1 Occurrence) Aramitess (1 Occurrence) Asrielites (1 Occurrence) As'rielites (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Asriel (3 Occurrences)Numbers 26:31 Joshua 17:2 1 Chronicles 7:14 Subtopics Asriel: Also Called Ashriel, Son of Manasseh Related Terms |