Topical Encyclopedia The Shelanites are a biblical group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are descendants of Shelah, the third son of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who is also known as Israel. The lineage of the Shelanites is significant in understanding the tribal and familial structures within the nation of Israel.Biblical References The primary reference to the Shelanites is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Numbers 26:20, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The descendants of Judah by their clans were: The Shelanite clan from Shelah, the Perezite clan from Perez, and the Zerahite clan from Zerah." This passage highlights the Shelanites as one of the clans within the tribe of Judah. Genealogical Context Shelah, the progenitor of the Shelanites, was born to Judah and his Canaanite wife, the daughter of Shua. The narrative of Judah and his family is found in Genesis 38, where the complex and often tumultuous family dynamics are described. Shelah's birth and lineage are crucial in the continuation of Judah's line, especially considering the events surrounding his brothers Er and Onan. Tribal Significance As a clan within the tribe of Judah, the Shelanites held a place in the broader context of Israel's tribal organization. The tribe of Judah was one of the most prominent tribes, known for its leadership and the eventual establishment of the Davidic line, from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would descend. The Shelanites, as part of this tribe, contributed to the fulfillment of God's promises to Judah and his descendants. Cultural and Historical Insights The Shelanites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, would have participated in the communal and religious life of the nation. This included adherence to the Mosaic Law, participation in the festivals and sacrifices, and involvement in the military and political affairs of Israel. The genealogical records, such as those in Numbers, served not only to organize the people but also to affirm their identity and heritage as God's chosen people. Theological Implications The mention of the Shelanites in the biblical text underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Each clan and tribe played a role in the history of Israel, and through them, the covenant promises were preserved and passed down through generations. The Shelanites, as descendants of Judah, were part of the lineage that would ultimately lead to the birth of the Messiah, fulfilling the prophecies and promises given to the patriarchs. In summary, the Shelanites represent a vital link in the genealogical and tribal history of Israel, illustrating the continuity of God's covenantal faithfulness through the generations. Their inclusion in the biblical record serves as a testament to the intricate and sovereign plan of God in the history of His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHELANITESshe'-lan-its, she-la'-nits. Strong's Hebrew 8024. Shelani -- descendant of Shelah... descendant of Shelah. Transliteration: Shelani Phonetic Spelling: (shay-law-nee') Short Definition: Shelanites. ... of Shelah NASB Word Usage Shelanites (1). ... /hebrew/8024.htm - 6k Thesaurus Shelanites (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHELANITES. she'-lan-its, she-la'-nits. See SHELAH. Multi-Version Concordance Shelanites (1 Occurrence). ... /s/shelanites.htm - 7k Shelanite (1 Occurrence) Shelemiah (10 Occurrences) Shelah (18 Occurrences) Zerahites (5 Occurrences) Zerahite (4 Occurrences) Perezite (1 Occurrence) Perezites (1 Occurrence) Perez (19 Occurrences) Clan (96 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Shelanites (1 Occurrence)Numbers 26:20 Subtopics Shelanites: Apparently Called Shilonites Shelanites: Descendants of Shelah Related Terms |
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