The Asshu'rim are mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. They are identified as descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah. The reference to the Asshu'rim is found in Genesis 25:3, which states: "Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan. The descendants of Dedan were the Asshurites, the Letushites, and the Leummites" . The Asshu'rim, therefore, are considered to be one of the tribes or groups that descended from Dedan, who was a son of Jokshan.

Genealogical Context

The genealogies in Genesis serve to trace the lineage and spread of nations from the patriarchs. Abraham, after the death of Sarah, took another wife named Keturah, who bore him several children. Among these children was Jokshan, who fathered Dedan. Dedan's descendants, including the Asshu'rim, are part of the broader narrative of the peoples who emerged from Abraham's lineage, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4).

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Asshu'rim, along with other descendants of Keturah, are often associated with the Arabian tribes. The genealogical records suggest that these groups settled in regions that are part of modern-day Arabia. The mention of the Asshu'rim in the context of Dedan and Sheba indicates their possible involvement in the trade networks and cultural exchanges that were prominent in the ancient Near East.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Asshu'rim in the biblical genealogies underscores the expansive nature of God's covenant with Abraham. While the primary focus of the Abrahamic covenant is on the line of Isaac and Jacob, the mention of other descendants, such as the Asshu'rim, illustrates the broader scope of God's blessings and the spread of Abraham's progeny across different regions and peoples.

Biblical References

· Genesis 25:3: "Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan. The descendants of Dedan were the Asshurites, the Letushites, and the Leummites" .

The Asshu'rim, as part of the genealogical records, contribute to the understanding of the historical and cultural milieu of the ancient Near East, as well as the fulfillment of divine promises through the lineage of Abraham.Asshu'rim (1 Occurrence)

Genesis 25:3
And Jokshan begot Sheba, and Dedan. And the sons of Dedan were Asshurim, and Letushim, and Leummim.
(See RSV)

Asshu'rim (1 Occurrence)
Asshu'rim. Asshurim, Asshu'rim. Asshurites . Multi-Version Concordance
Asshu'rim (1 Occurrence). Genesis 25:3 And Jokshan begot Sheba, and Dedan. ...
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Asshurim (1 Occurrence)

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Asshurites (2 Occurrences)

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