Japhleli is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribes of Israel. The name "Japhleli" is found in the context of the tribal allotments and genealogies that are detailed in the Book of Numbers.

Biblical Reference:

Japhleli is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, which is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible traditionally attributed to Moses. The specific reference to Japhleli is found in Numbers 26:32-33, where the descendants of Asher are listed:

"The sons of Asher by their clans were Imnah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah. The sons of Beriah were Heber and Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith." (Numbers 26:44-45)

In this passage, Japhleli is not directly named, but he is understood to be a descendant of Asher, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was later named Israel. The genealogies in Numbers 26 are part of a census taken by Moses and Eleazar the priest, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land. This census was crucial for determining the division of the land among the tribes.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Asher, to which Japhleli belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Asher was the eighth son of Jacob, born to Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The tribe of Asher was known for its abundance and prosperity, as prophesied by Jacob in Genesis 49:20: "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide royal delicacies."

The descendants of Asher, including Japhleli, were allotted territory in the northern part of the land of Canaan, which was known for its fertile land and olive groves. This region contributed to the tribe's reputation for wealth and abundance.

Genealogical Context:

The genealogies in the Bible serve multiple purposes. They establish the historical and familial connections among the tribes of Israel, affirming the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They also provide a framework for understanding the distribution of land and the organization of the Israelite community.

Japhleli, as a descendant of Asher, is part of this broader narrative that underscores the continuity of God's covenant with His people. The genealogical records, while sometimes challenging to navigate, are integral to the biblical account, highlighting the faithfulness of God across generations.

Cultural and Theological Insights:

From a cultural perspective, names and genealogies in the Bible often carry significant meaning. The name "Japhleli" itself, while not extensively explored in biblical texts, is part of a tradition where names reflect aspects of character, destiny, or divine interaction. The inclusion of Japhleli in the genealogical record underscores the importance of each individual within the collective history of Israel.

Theologically, the genealogies, including the mention of figures like Japhleli, remind readers of the intricate tapestry of God's plan. Each name represents a link in the chain of God's redemptive history, leading ultimately to the coming of Jesus Christ, who is traced through the lineage of Israel.

In summary, Japhleli, though a minor figure in the biblical narrative, is part of the rich heritage of the tribe of Asher. His mention in the genealogies of Numbers highlights the continuity of God's promises and the importance of each member within the covenant community of Israel.Japhleli

(the Japhletite). The boundary of the "Japhletite" is one of the landmarks on the south boundary line of Ephraim. (Joshua 16:3)

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