Heber is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribes of Israel. He is identified as a son of Beriah, who is a descendant of Asher, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The name "Heber" is derived from the Hebrew root "ḥbr," which means "to associate" or "to join." This name is shared by several individuals in the Bible, but Heber, the son of Beriah, is specifically noted in the context of the tribe of Asher.

Biblical References:

Heber is mentioned in the genealogical records found in the First Book of Chronicles. In 1 Chronicles 7:31-32 , the text states: "The sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith. Heber was the father of Japhlet, Shomer, and Hotham, and of their sister Shua."

This passage places Heber within the lineage of Asher, highlighting his role as a progenitor of several descendants. The genealogies in Chronicles serve to establish the tribal affiliations and familial connections among the Israelites, underscoring the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative.

Tribal Significance:

As a member of the tribe of Asher, Heber's lineage is part of the broader narrative of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Asher was known for its rich agricultural land and was blessed by Jacob in Genesis 49:20 : "Asher’s food will be rich; he shall provide royal delicacies." This blessing reflects the prosperity and abundance associated with the tribe, which may have extended to Heber and his descendants.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles are believed to have been compiled during the post-exilic period, serving as a means to preserve the identity and heritage of the Israelite tribes after the Babylonian exile. Heber's inclusion in these records emphasizes the continuity of the Asherite lineage and its significance within the larger framework of Israel's history.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Heber and his descendants in the genealogies underscores the biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. The preservation of tribal identities and family lines is a testament to God's enduring promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring that their descendants would continue to play a vital role in His divine plan.

Conclusion:

While Heber, the son of Beriah, is a relatively minor figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of family and tribal connections in the history of Israel. Through Heber and his descendants, the legacy of the tribe of Asher is preserved, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israel's heritage as recorded in the Scriptures.Genesis 46:17
And the sons of Asher; Jimnah, and Ishuah, and Isui, and Beriah, and Serah their sister: and the sons of Beriah; Heber, and Malchiel.
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Numbers 26:45
Of the sons of Beriah: of Heber, the family of the Heberites: of Malchiel, the family of the Malchielites.
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1 Chronicles 7:31,32
And the sons of Beriah; Heber, and Malchiel, who is the father of Birzavith.
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Luke 3:35
Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,
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Chapter xlvi
... Of Simeon it is specifically asserted that Shaul, his son, was begotten of a
"Canaanitish woman." Since this is ... And the sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlvi.htm

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