Topical Encyclopedia The Elonites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are descendants of Elon, one of the sons of Zebulun, who was the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The Elonites are part of the broader tribal confederation of Israel, specifically within the tribe of Zebulun.Biblical References: The primary reference to the Elonites is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. In Numbers 26:26, the Berean Standard Bible states: "The descendants of Zebulun by their clans were: through Sered, the Seredite clan; through Elon, the Elonite clan; through Jahleel, the Jahleelite clan." This passage highlights the Elonites as one of the three main clans within the tribe of Zebulun. The genealogical listing underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. Each clan within a tribe had its own distinct identity and role within the larger community of Israel. Historical and Cultural Context: The tribe of Zebulun, to which the Elonites belonged, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. According to the blessings of Jacob in Genesis 49:13, Zebulun was to dwell by the seashore and become a haven for ships, indicating a future role in trade and commerce. The Elonites, as part of this tribe, would have shared in this heritage and the responsibilities that came with it. The Elonites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, would have been involved in the communal and religious life of the nation. They participated in the annual feasts, offerings, and other religious observances as prescribed by the Mosaic Law. The clan structure was integral to maintaining order and distributing land and resources among the people. Theological Significance: The mention of the Elonites in the biblical text, though brief, serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Each clan and tribe had a role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel and, ultimately, for the world. The genealogies and clan listings in Scripture emphasize the continuity of God's promises from generation to generation. The Elonites, as part of the tribe of Zebulun, contribute to the rich tapestry of Israel's history. Their inclusion in the biblical record reflects the comprehensive nature of God's covenant, which encompasses all of His people, regardless of their prominence or obscurity in the narrative. Conclusion: While the Elonites are not extensively detailed in the biblical text, their presence in the genealogical records of Israel highlights the importance of every clan and family in the fulfillment of God's purposes. The Elonites, as part of the tribe of Zebulun, remind us of the diverse and interconnected nature of the people of God throughout history. Smith's Bible Dictionary The Elonites(Numbers 26:26) [ELON, 2] Strong's Hebrew 440. Eloni -- a descendant of Elon... Eloni. 441 . a descendant of Elon. Transliteration: Eloni Phonetic Spelling: (ay-lo-nee') Short Definition: Elonites. ... of Elon NASB Word Usage Elonites (1). ... /hebrew/440.htm - 6k Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |