Topical Encyclopedia Beriah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Asher, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. Asher was the eighth son of Jacob, born to him by Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Beriah's lineage is significant as it contributes to the tribal heritage of the Israelites, specifically the tribe of Asher.Biblical References: Beriah is first mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Asher in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 46:17 , the sons of Asher are listed: "The sons of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah. The sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel." This passage highlights Beriah as one of the four sons of Asher, and it also notes his own sons, Heber and Malchiel, indicating the continuation of his lineage. Further genealogical details are provided in 1 Chronicles 7:30-31 , which states: "The sons of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, and Beriah. Their sister was Serah. The sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith." This passage reaffirms Beriah's position within the family of Asher and provides additional information about his descendants. Tribal Significance: The tribe of Asher, to which Beriah belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe played a unique role in the history and development of the nation of Israel. The tribe of Asher was known for its abundance and prosperity, as reflected in the blessings pronounced by Jacob and Moses. In Genesis 49:20 , Jacob blesses Asher, saying, "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide royal delicacies." Similarly, in Deuteronomy 33:24 , Moses blesses Asher, stating, "Most blessed of sons is Asher; let him be favored by his brothers, and let him dip his foot in oil." Beriah's descendants, through the tribe of Asher, would have shared in these blessings and contributed to the tribe's reputation for wealth and fertility. The tribe's location in the northern part of the Promised Land, with access to fertile lands and trade routes, further supported its prosperity. Historical and Theological Context: In the broader narrative of the Bible, genealogies serve to connect individuals to the unfolding account of God's covenant with Israel. Beriah, as a son of Asher, is part of this divine narrative, linking the patriarchs to the later history of Israel. The genealogical records emphasize the continuity of God's promises through successive generations, underscoring the faithfulness of God to His chosen people. The mention of Beriah and his descendants in the genealogies also reflects the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. Each tribe had its own distinct role and inheritance within the land of Israel, and the genealogies helped preserve the memory and identity of each tribe's members. In summary, Beriah, as a son of Asher, holds a place within the rich tapestry of Israel's history, contributing to the legacy of the tribe of Asher and the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Jacob. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:17And the sons of Asher; Jimnah, and Ishuah, and Isui, and Beriah, and Serah their sister: and the sons of Beriah; Heber, and Malchiel. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:44,45 1 Chronicles 7:30 Library Chapter xlvi Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Asher? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Asher in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |