The term "Carmites" refers to the descendants of Carmi, a member of the tribe of Reuben, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The lineage of Carmi is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the tribal divisions and inheritances among the Israelites.

Genealogy and Tribal Affiliation

Carmi is identified as a son of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob and Leah. The genealogical records in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Numbers provide insight into the family lineage of Reuben. In Genesis 46:9, the sons of Reuben are listed: "The sons of Reuben: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi." This establishes Carmi as one of the patriarchs of the Reubenite clan.

The tribe of Reuben, to which the Carmites belong, was one of the twelve tribes that descended from the sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Reubenites settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region that would later be known as Gilead. This territory was allotted to them during the division of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua.

Biblical References

The name Carmi appears in several genealogical lists throughout the Old Testament. In 1 Chronicles 5:3, the chronicler reiterates the lineage: "The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi." This passage underscores the importance of maintaining tribal and familial records among the Israelites.

In the Book of Numbers, the descendants of Reuben, including the Carmites, are counted during the census of the Israelites in the wilderness. Numbers 26:6 states, "These were the clans of Reuben, and their registration numbered 43,730." This census was crucial for organizing the Israelite community and preparing for the conquest of Canaan.

Role and Significance

The Carmites, as part of the tribe of Reuben, played a role in the early history of Israel. Although the tribe of Reuben did not produce any prominent leaders or figures like some of the other tribes, they were integral to the collective identity and strength of the Israelite nation. The Reubenites, including the Carmites, were known for their pastoral lifestyle, as their territory was well-suited for grazing livestock.

The tribe of Reuben, however, faced challenges due to their geographical location. Being situated on the eastern side of the Jordan River, they were somewhat isolated from the other tribes and more vulnerable to external threats. This separation occasionally led to tensions and conflicts with neighboring peoples.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Carmites in the biblical genealogies highlights the importance of each tribe and family within the covenant community of Israel. The detailed records of lineage serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen people and fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs.

The account of the Carmites, like that of other Israelite clans, reflects the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Through the descendants of Jacob, God established a nation through which He would ultimately bring forth the Messiah, Jesus Christ, fulfilling the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

In summary, the Carmites, as descendants of Carmi and members of the tribe of Reuben, are part of the rich tapestry of Israel's history. Their presence in the biblical record underscores the significance of tribal identity and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.3757. Karmi -- descendant of Carmi
... Karmi. 3758 . descendant of Carmi. Transliteration: Karmi Phonetic Spelling:
(kar-mee') Short Definition: Carmites. ... of Carmi NASB Word Usage Carmites (1). ...
/hebrew/3757.htm - 6kCarmites (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Carmites (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the
family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
/c/carmites.htm - 6k

Carmite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Carmite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the
family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
/c/carmite.htm - 6k

Clan (96 Occurrences)
... Palluites; (See NIV). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites;
of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. (See NIV). Numbers 26 ...
/c/clan.htm - 32k

Carmi (8 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the family
of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
/c/carmi.htm - 10k

Carmonians

/c/carmonians.htm - 7k

Hezron (19 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the family
of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
/h/hezron.htm - 13k

Hezronite (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hezronite (2 Occurrences). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the
family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. ...
/h/hezronite.htm - 6k

Hezronites (2 Occurrences)
... Hezronites (2 Occurrences). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the family of the Hezronites;
of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS NAS). ...
/h/hezronites.htm - 7k

Hez'ronites (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hez'ronites (2 Occurrences). Numbers 26:6 of Hezron, the
family of the Hezronites; of Carmi, the family of the Carmites. (See RSV). ...
/h/hez'ronites.htm - 6k

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