The Tolaites are a lesser-known group mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. They are descendants of Tola, who was one of the sons of Issachar, a son of Jacob and Leah. The name "Tolaites" is derived from Tola, and they are recognized as one of the clans within the tribe of Issachar.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 46:13 · The first mention of Tola is found in the genealogical listings of Jacob's descendants who went to Egypt. "The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Job, and Shimron."

2. Numbers 26:23 · During the census in the wilderness, the descendants of Tola are specifically mentioned as the Tolaites. "The descendants of Issachar by their clans: Tola, the Tolaite clan; Puvah, the Punite clan."

3. 1 Chronicles 7:1-2 · The genealogies in Chronicles provide further details about the descendants of Tola. "The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron—four in all. The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Samuel, heads of their families. During the reign of David, the descendants of Tola numbered 22,600 mighty warriors in their genealogies."

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Tolaites, as part of the tribe of Issachar, were situated in the northern part of the land of Israel. The tribe of Issachar was known for its wisdom and understanding of the times, as noted in 1 Chronicles 12:32, which states, "From the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do, 200 chiefs with all their kinsmen at their command."

The Tolaites, like other clans within the tribes of Israel, played a role in the military and social structure of the nation. The mention of 22,600 mighty warriors during King David's reign indicates that the Tolaites were a significant force within the tribe of Issachar, contributing to the defense and leadership of Israel.

Theological Significance:

The inclusion of the Tolaites in the biblical genealogies underscores the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in the narrative of Israel's history. Each clan and family had a role in the unfolding account of God's covenant with His people. The Tolaites, though not prominent in biblical narratives, are part of the tapestry of Israel's heritage, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs regarding the multiplication and establishment of their descendants.

The genealogical records, including those of the Tolaites, serve as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His people and maintaining the continuity of the tribes of Israel. These records also highlight the interconnectedness of the tribes and their collective contribution to the nation of Israel as a whole.The Tolaites

the descendants of Tola the son of Issachar. (Numbers 26:23)

8440. Tolai -- descendant of Tola
... Tolai. 8441 . descendant of Tola. Transliteration: Tolai Phonetic Spelling:
(to-law-ee') Short Definition: Tolaites. ... of Tola NASB Word Usage Tolaites (1). Tola ...
/hebrew/8440.htm - 6k

8441. toebah -- abomination
... detestable things (3), loathsome (2), object of loathing (1). Tolaites.
Or tonebah {to-ay-baw'}; feminine active participle of ta ...
/hebrew/8441.htm - 6k

The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus