The term "Punite" refers to a descendant of Puvah (also spelled Puah), who was one of the sons of Issachar, a patriarch of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The Punites are mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Issachar, which is one of the tribes that formed the nation of Israel. The name "Punite" is derived from Puvah, indicating a familial or clan association within the larger tribal structure.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the Punites is found in the genealogical listings in the Old Testament. In Numbers 26:23, the Berean Standard Bible states: "These were the descendants of Issachar by their clans: The Tolaite clan from Tola, the Puite clan from Puvah." Here, the term "Puite" is synonymous with "Punite," indicating the descendants of Puvah.

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Issachar, to which the Punites belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, each descending from one of the sons of Jacob. Issachar was the fifth son of Leah and Jacob, and his descendants were known for their wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32. The tribe was allocated a portion of land in the Promised Land, specifically in the fertile region of Jezreel Valley, which was conducive to agriculture and trade.

Role and Significance:

While the Punites themselves are not individually highlighted in biblical narratives, their inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. The genealogies served not only as historical records but also as a means of establishing inheritance rights and social structure within the nation.

The tribe of Issachar, including the Punites, played a role in the collective identity and functioning of Israel. They contributed to the military, economic, and spiritual life of the nation. The emphasis on genealogies in the Bible reflects the value placed on heritage and continuity of God's covenant promises through the generations.

Cultural and Historical Insights:

Understanding the Punites within the context of the tribe of Issachar provides insight into the broader cultural and historical setting of ancient Israel. The tribal system was central to the organization of Israelite society, with each tribe having specific roles and responsibilities. The Punites, as part of this system, would have participated in the communal life, including religious observances, festivals, and governance.

The genealogical records, including those mentioning the Punites, highlight the meticulous care with which the Israelites preserved their history and identity. These records were vital for maintaining the integrity of the tribal divisions and ensuring the proper distribution of land and resources according to God's instructions.

In summary, the Punites, as descendants of Puvah, represent a specific clan within the tribe of Issachar, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israel's history and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.6324. Puni -- descendant of Puvah
... Punites. Patronymically from an unused name meaning a turn; a Punite (collectively)
or descendants of an unknown Pun -- Punites. 6323, 6324. Puni. 6325 . ...
/hebrew/6324.htm - 6kPunite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Punite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:23 The sons
of Issachar after their families: of Tola, the family of ...
/p/punite.htm - 6k

Is'sachar (40 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). Numbers 26:23 Sons of Issachar by their families; 'of' Tola 'is' the
family of the Tolaite; of Pua the family of the Punite; (See RSV). ...
/i/is'sachar.htm - 16k

Punites (1 Occurrence)

/p/punites.htm - 7k

Punishments (31 Occurrences)

/p/punishments.htm - 36k

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