Topical Encyclopedia Eri 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. Eri 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: Eri is specifically mentioned in the genealogical records found in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Numbers. In Genesis 46:16, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli." This passage lists Eri among the sons of Gad who went down to Egypt with Jacob and his family during the time of famine. Further mention of Eri is found in the census records of the Israelites in the wilderness. Numbers 26:15-16 records: "These were the descendants of Gad by their clans: The Zephonite clan from Zephon, the Haggite clan from Haggi, the Shunite clan from Shuni, the Oznite clan from Ozni, the Erite clan from Eri." Here, Eri is recognized as the progenitor of the Erite clan, one of the family groups within the tribe of Gad. Tribal Significance: The tribe of Gad, to which Eri belonged, was known for its warrior-like characteristics and played a significant role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The tribe settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the region known as Gilead. This area was well-suited for their pastoral lifestyle, as it provided ample grazing land for their flocks and herds. The descendants of Eri, as part of the tribe of Gad, would have shared in the responsibilities and blessings of the covenant community of Israel. They participated in the military campaigns led by Joshua to conquer the land of Canaan and were known for their valor and strength in battle. Cultural and Historical Context: The genealogical records in which Eri is mentioned serve to establish the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites. These records were crucial for maintaining the identity and heritage of the twelve tribes, especially during times of dispersion and exile. The mention of Eri and his descendants underscores the importance of family and tribal connections in the social and religious life of ancient Israel. Eri's inclusion in the biblical genealogies highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to make their descendants into a great nation. Each clan and family within the tribes contributed to the overall narrative of God's chosen people, and Eri's lineage was part of this divine plan. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of Eri and his descendants reflects the faithfulness of God in preserving the lineage of Israel. Despite the challenges and adversities faced by the Israelites, including slavery in Egypt and the trials of the wilderness, God's covenant promises remained steadfast. The genealogies, including the mention of Eri, serve as a testament to God's providential care and the unfolding of His redemptive purposes through the nation of Israel. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 46:16And the sons of Gad; Ziphion, and Haggi, Shuni, and Ezbon, Eri, and Arodi, and Areli. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:16 Library Chapter xlvi Appendices The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Resources Who was Gad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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