Areli is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Gad, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Gad was the seventh son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Areli is thus one of the grandsons of Jacob and a member of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:

Areli is specifically mentioned in the genealogical records of the Israelites. In Genesis 46:16, the Bible records the names of the sons of Gad who went down to Egypt with Jacob during the time of famine. The verse states: "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli."

Further mention of Areli is found in the book of Numbers, which provides a census of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. Numbers 26:15-17 lists the descendants of Gad according to their clans: "The descendants of Gad by their clans were: through Zephon, the Zephonite clan; through Haggi, the Haggite clan; through Shuni, the Shunite clan; through Ozni, the Oznite clan; through Eri, the Erite clan; through Arodi, the Arodite clan; through Areli, the Arelite clan."

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Gad, to which Areli belonged, was known for its warrior-like characteristics. In the blessings pronounced by Jacob over his sons, Gad is described as a troop that will be attacked but will overcome in the end (Genesis 49:19). This martial prowess is echoed in the blessing of Moses, who declared that Gad would be a leader and execute the justice of the Lord (Deuteronomy 33:20-21).

Cultural and Historical Context:

The tribe of Gad settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This area was well-suited for the pastoral lifestyle of the Gadites, who were known for their cattle and livestock. The tribe played a significant role in the military campaigns of Israel, often serving as valiant warriors.

Areli, as a member of this tribe, would have been part of the collective identity and heritage that emphasized strength, loyalty, and a commitment to the covenantal promises given to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Legacy:

While specific details about Areli's life and deeds are not provided in the biblical text, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal affiliation in the narrative of the Israelites. Areli's name, meaning "lion of God" or "heroic," reflects the valor and divine favor associated with the tribe of Gad.

In summary, Areli is a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel, each contributing to the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. His mention in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of relationships and histories that form the foundation of the biblical narrative.Genesis 46:16
And the sons of Gad; Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni, and Ezbon, Eri, and Arodi, and Areli.
Nave's Topical Index

692. Areli -- a son of Gad, also his desc.
... 691, 692. Areli. 693 . a son of Gad, also his desc. Transliteration: Areli
Phonetic Spelling: (ar-ay-lee') Short Definition: Areli. ...
/hebrew/692.htm - 6k

Chapter xlvi
... Simeon it is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten ... And the sons
of Gad: Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni and Ezbon, Eri and Arodi and Areli. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

Who was Gad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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