1 Chronicles 7
Berean Study Bible

The Descendants of Issachar

The sons of Issachar:

Issachar was Jacob’s ninth son and the ancestor of one of Israel’s twelve tribes. His descendants settled in the productive region around the Jezreel Valley, an area important for farming, travel, and trade within the land of Israel. The tribe later supplied capable men who understood the needs of the nation and supported David’s rule.

Gen 49:14-15 Issachar is a strong donkey, lying down between sheepfolds…
Deu 33:18-19 Concerning Zebulun he said: “Rejoice, Zebulun,…
Jdg 5:15 The princes of Issachar were with Deborah,…

Tola,

Tola, whose name means “worm” or “scarlet,” headed the first clan of Issachar. A later judge of Israel bore the same name and provided stable leadership during a troubled period in Israel’s history.

Jdg 10:1-2 After the time of Abimelech, a man of Issachar,…
Jos 19:17-23 The fourth lot came out for the clans…

Puah,

Puah, whose name means “splendid” or “blossom,” headed the second clan. His descendants formed part of the tribal families counted among Israel’s tribes.

Exo 1:15-21 Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives…
1Ch 12:32 From Issachar, men who understood the times…

Jashub,

Jashub, whose name means “he will return” or “he will repent,” headed the third clan of Issachar. His family continued the line through which Issachar’s inheritance and responsibilities in Israel were preserved.

Ezr 10:29 From the descendants of Bani: Meshullam, Malluch…
Isa 7:3 Then the LORD said to Isaiah, “Go out with your son…

and Shimron—four in all.

Shimron, whose name means “watch” or “guard,” headed the fourth clan. These four sons formed the principal family divisions of the tribe of Issachar.

Gen 46:13 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Job, and Shimron.
Num 26:23-24 These were the descendants of Issachar by their clans:…

The sons of Tola: Uzzi, Rephaiah, Jeriel, Jahmai, Ibsam, and Shemuel, the heads of their families.

Tola descended from Issachar, and his six sons became leading branches within the tribe. Their identification as family heads shows the ordered structure by which Israel preserved its inheritance, responsibilities, and tribal identity through successive generations.

Num 26:23 These were the descendants of Issachar by their clans:…
Gen 46:13 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Job, and Shimron.
Jdg 10:1-2 After the time of Abimelech, a man of Issachar,…

In the days of David, 22,600 descendants of Tola were numbered in their genealogies as mighty men of valor.

By David’s reign, Tola’s clan had grown into a substantial fighting force within Issachar. Their recorded number reflects both the care given to tribal genealogies and the military strength available to David as he established and defended the united kingdom.

1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
1Ch 12:21-23 They helped David against the raiders, for they were all…
2Sa 24:9 And Joab reported to the king the total number of the troops…

The son of Uzzi: Izrahiah.

Izrahiah continued the leading family line within Issachar. His descendants formed part of the tribe’s established clans, whose records preserved inheritance, military service, and tribal identity.

1Ch 6:5 Abishua was the father of Bukki, Bukki was the father…
Ezr 7:4 the son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki,

The sons of Izrahiah: Michael, Obadiah, Joel, and Isshiah.

Izrahiah’s four sons—Michael (“Who is like God?”), Obadiah (“Servant of Yahweh”), Joel (“Yahweh is God”), and Isshiah (“Yahweh will lend”)—became heads of their own households. Their inclusion records the growth of Issachar through recognized family lines and identifies the men from whom later clans descended.

1Ch 5:13 Their kinsmen by families were Michael, Meshullam…
1Ch 12:9 Ezer the chief, Obadiah the second in command……
1Ch 12:6 Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, and Jashobeam…

All five of them were chiefs.

Izrahiah and his four sons were chiefs among their relatives, holding recognized authority within the tribe. Their households contributed to Issachar’s organization and strength among Israel.

1Ch 8:28 All these were heads of families, the chiefs…
1Ch 5:24 These were the heads of their families: Epher, Ishi…
Num 1:16 These men were appointed from the congregation;…

In addition to them,

“In addition to them” indicates that the descendants of Issachar listed earlier were supplemented by other clan members. Together, they contributed to the tribe’s military strength, underscoring the importance of family lines, tribal identity, and covenant inheritance in Israel.

1Ch 12:22 For at that time men came to David day after day to help him…
1Ch 27:1 This is the list of the Israelites—the heads of families…
2Ch 17:14 These are their numbers according to the houses…

according to their genealogy,

“According to their genealogy” indicates that the clans were identified by their ancestral households, preserving their place within the tribe and determining those responsible for military service.

Num 1:18 and on the first day of the second month…
1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
Ezr 2:62 These men searched for their family records…

they had 36,000 troops for battle,

Issachar had 36,000 trained troops ready for battle, demonstrating the tribe’s significant contribution to Israel’s military defense.

1Ch 12:23 Now these are the numbers of men armed for battle…
1Ch 5:18 The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh…
Jdg 20:17 The Israelites, apart from Benjamin, mobilized 400,000 swordsmen…

for they had many wives and children.

Large households increased the tribe’s numbers from generation to generation. The growing families of Issachar provided a continuing supply of men for service and strengthened the tribe’s standing among Israel.

2Sa 5:13 After he had arrived from Hebron, David took more wives…
1Ki 11:3 He had seven hundred wives of royal birth…
Psa 127:3-5 Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD…

Their kinsmen belonging to all the families of Issachar

Issachar’s clans shared a common descent from Jacob’s son and formed one tribal community. Their inheritance lay in the productive region of northern Israel, including much of the Jezreel Valley.

Num 26:23-25 These were the descendants of Issachar by their clans:…
Gen 46:13 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Job, and Shimron.
Jos 19:17-23 The fourth lot came out for the clans…

who were mighty men of valor

The tribe supplied capable and courageous fighting men, prepared to defend Israel and serve in its armies.

Jos 10:7 So Joshua and his whole army, including all…
Jos 1:14 Your wives, your young children, and your livestock…
Jdg 6:12 And the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon and said,…

totaled 87,000,

This substantial number reflects Issachar’s strength and population among the northern tribes.

Num 1:29 those registered to the tribe of Issachar numbered 54,400.
1Ch 21:5 And Joab reported to David the total number of the troops.…
2Ch 26:13 Under their authority was an army of 307,500…

as listed in their genealogies.

The official family records established tribal membership, inheritance, and military responsibility, preserving the order of the people God had given to Israel.

1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
Ezr 2:62 These men searched for their family records…
Neh 7:5 Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles,…

The Descendants of Benjamin

The three sons of Benjamin:

Benjamin, Jacob’s youngest son, became the ancestor of a tribe that held an important place in Israel’s history. Though smaller than several other tribes, Benjamin produced Saul, Israel’s first king, and was known for its capable fighting men. The genealogy preserves the recognized family lines through which tribal identity, land rights, and military service were maintained.

Gen 46:21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera,…
Num 26:38-39 These were the descendants of Benjamin by their clans:…
1Ch 8:1-2 Benjamin was the father of Bela, his firstborn…

Bela,

Bela, whose name means “destruction” or “devouring,” headed a leading Benjamite family whose descendants later appear among the tribe’s established clans. His line contributed to the growth and settlement of Benjamin in the territory north of Judah.

1Ch 8:3-5 The sons of Bela: Addar, Gera, Abihud,…
Num 26:40-41 And the descendants of Bela from Ard and Naaman……

Becher,

Becher, whose name means “young camel” or “firstborn,” is counted among Benjamin’s sons and represents another branch of the tribe. His family shared in the inheritance and responsibilities of Benjamin within Israel.

1Sa 9:1-2 Now there was a Benjamite, a powerful man,…
Jos 18:11-28 The first lot came up for the clans of the tribe of Benjamin…
Jdg 20:46-48 That day 25,000 Benjamite swordsmen fell, all men of valor.…

and Jediael.

Jediael, whose name means “God knows” or “known by God,” records a significant Benjamite family line. His descendants are later identified as numerous and valiant warriors, reflecting the tribe’s reputation for strength in battle.

1Ch 26:2 Meshelemiah had sons: Zechariah the firstborn…
1Ch 11:45 Jediael son of Shimri and his brother Joha the Tizite,
1Ch 12:20 When David went to Ziklag, these men of Manasseh defected to him…

The sons of Bela: Ezbon, Uzzi, Uzziel, Jerimoth, and Iri,

Bela, Benjamin’s firstborn, became the ancestor of an important Benjamite clan. These five sons, including Uzzi, whose name means “my strength,” formed distinct family lines within the tribe and preserved Benjamin’s inheritance and identity in Israel.

1Ch 8:3-7 The sons of Bela: Addar, Gera, Abihud,…
Num 26:38-40 These were the descendants of Benjamin by their clans:…
Gen 46:21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera,…

heads of their families—five in all.

Each man stood as the recognized leader of his household division. Their descendants were organized under these ancestral lines for property, military service, and tribal responsibilities.

Num 1:4 And one man from each tribe, the head of each family,…
Num 7:2 And the leaders of Israel, the heads of their families,…
Jos 22:14 With him they sent ten chiefs—one family leader…

There were 22,034 mighty men of valor

Bela’s clan supplied a substantial force of capable warriors. Benjamin’s location near Ephraim and Judah gave the tribe strategic importance, and its fighting men served in the defense of Israel.

1Ch 5:18 The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh…
1Ch 21:5 And Joab reported to David the total number of the troops.…
2Sa 24:9 And Joab reported to the king the total number of the troops…

listed in their genealogies.

The official records established their place within Benjamin and confirmed their standing among the covenant people.

1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
Ezr 2:62 These men searched for their family records…
Neh 7:64 These men searched for their family records…

The sons of Becher:

Becher belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, one of Israel’s twelve tribes. His family formed part of Benjamin’s continuing tribal structure after Israel’s settlement in the land.

Gen 46:21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera,…
1Ch 8:1 Benjamin was the father of Bela, his firstborn…
Num 26:38 These were the descendants of Benjamin by their clans:…

Zemirah, Joash, Eliezer, Elioenai, Omri, Jeremoth, Abijah, Anathoth, and Alemeth;

These descendants preserved Becher’s household within Benjamin’s genealogy. Their inclusion records recognized family lines whose members shared in the tribe’s identity, responsibilities, and inheritance.

1Ch 8:36 Ahaz was the father of Jehoaddah, Jehoaddah…
1Sa 8:2 The name of his firstborn son was Joel.…
2Ki 11:2 But Jehosheba daughter of King Joram, the sister of Ahaziah…

all these were Becher’s sons.

The complete list establishes their common descent from Becher and confirms their place among the families of Benjamin.

1Ch 8:40 The sons of Ulam were mighty men of valor, archers,…
1Ch 9:35-44 Jeiel the father of Gibeon lived in Gibeon.…

Their genealogies were recorded

Genealogical records preserved the identity of clans within Israel and established rightful membership in the tribe of Benjamin. They also safeguarded family inheritance, military obligations, and leadership within the covenant community.

1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
Neh 7:5 Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles,…
Num 1:18 and on the first day of the second month…

according to the heads of their families—

Benjamin’s clans were organized under recognized household leaders who represented their families in tribal affairs. These records identified the households responsible for serving and defending the tribe.

Ezr 8:1 These are the family heads and genealogical records…
Num 1:4 And one man from each tribe, the head of each family,…
Exo 6:14 These were the heads of their fathers’ houses…

20,200 mighty men of valor.

Benjamin supplied 20,200 trained fighting men. Their number demonstrates the tribe’s military readiness and its role in Israel’s defense.

1Ch 12:8 Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold…
1Ch 5:18 The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh…
2Sa 24:9 And Joab reported to the king the total number of the troops…

The son of Jediael: Bilhan.

Jediael belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, and Bilhan, whose name may mean “their decrepitude” or “modest,” continued one branch of that tribe’s family line. Such genealogies preserved the record of Israel’s inherited tribal identity and the households through which Benjamin’s descendants increased.

1Ch 26:2 Meshelemiah had sons: Zechariah the firstborn…
1Ch 12:20 When David went to Ziklag, these men of Manasseh defected to him…
1Ch 8:1-3 Benjamin was the father of Bela, his firstborn…

The sons of Bilhan: Jeush, Benjamin, Ehud, Chenaanah, Zethan, Tarshish, and Ahishahar.

Bilhan’s seven sons formed a substantial Benjaminite clan. Their names, including Jeush (“assembler” or “he will gather”), Ehud (“united” or “strong”), Chenaanah (“trader” or “merchant”), and Ahishahar (“my brother is dawn”), mark successive generations within the tribe and reflect the growth of Benjamin’s families as Israel developed into an established people in the land.

1Ch 8:39 The sons of his brother Eshek: Ulam was his firstborn…
Jdg 3:15 And again they cried out to the LORD, and He raised up…
1Ki 22:11 Zedekiah son of Chenaanah had made for himself iron horns…

All these sons of Jediael

All these sons of Jediael belonged to the tribe of Benjamin and represented a recognized branch within Israel’s tribal order. Their genealogy preserved the family’s place in the tribe’s inheritance and responsibilities.

1Ch 11:45 Jediael son of Shimri and his brother Joha the Tizite,
1Ch 8:40 The sons of Ulam were mighty men of valor, archers,…

were heads of their families,

They served as leaders of their households and clans, responsible for their families’ standing and welfare.

1Ch 5:24 These were the heads of their families: Epher, Ishi…
Exo 6:14 These were the heads of their fathers’ houses…

mighty men of valor;

The phrase “mighty men of valor” refers to men distinguished by strength, courage, and proven ability in military service.

Jdg 6:12 And the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon and said,…
1Ch 12:8 Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold…

there were 17,200 fit for battle.

Their number reflects Benjamin’s substantial fighting force and the careful records maintained for Israel’s defense.

2Ch 25:5 Then Amaziah gathered the people of Judah…
Num 26:2 Take a census of the whole congregation of Israel…

The Shuppites and Huppites were descendants of Ir,

These clans formed part of Benjamin’s extended family line, preserving the identity of households within the tribe. Their inclusion reflects the careful recording of ancestral branches that contributed to Benjamin’s strength and place among Israel.

Num 26:38-39 These were the descendants of Benjamin by their clans:…
Gen 46:21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera,…

and the Hushites were descendants of Aher.

The Hushites are listed as a distinct branch descended from Aher. Though little else is recorded about him, the genealogy recognizes his household as part of the tribe’s established family structure.

Gen 46:23 The son of Dan: Hushim.
Num 26:42 These were the descendants of Dan by their clans:…

The Descendants of Naphtali

The sons of Naphtali:

Naphtali, Jacob’s sixth son by Bilhah, became the father of one of Israel’s twelve tribes. His descendants received territory in northern Canaan, including the region around Kedesh and Hazor, near the Sea of Galilee. Their location placed them along important travel routes and exposed them to repeated invasions and conflicts.

Gen 30:7-8 And Rachel’s servant Bilhah conceived again…
Gen 49:21 Naphtali is a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns.
Deu 33:23 Concerning Naphtali he said: “Naphtali is abounding with…

Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shallum—

These four sons formed the principal family lines of Naphtali: Jahziel (“God apportions”), Guni (“protected”), Jezer (“formation”), and Shallum (“retribution” or “peace”). Their names appear among Israel’s early tribal records, preserving the ancestry of a tribe that shared fully in the covenant inheritance of Israel.

Gen 46:24 The sons of Naphtali: Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem.
Num 26:48-50 These were the descendants of Naphtali by their clans:…

the descendants of Bilhah.

Bilhah, Rachel’s servant, bore Dan and Naphtali to Jacob. Though born through a maidservant, her sons were recognized as Jacob’s sons and became heads of tribes within Israel.

Gen 35:25 The sons of Rachel’s maidservant Bilhah were Dan and…
Gen 46:25 These are the sons of Jacob born to Bilhah,…

The Descendants of Manasseh

The descendants of Manasseh:

Manasseh, Joseph’s firstborn, became one of Israel’s tribes. His family line included clans settled on both sides of the Jordan, with Machir’s descendants especially prominent in the territory east of the river.

Num 1:34 And from the sons of Manasseh, according to the records…
Gen 48:5 And now your two sons born to you in Egypt…

Asriel through his Aramean concubine.

Asriel belonged to Manasseh’s line through a concubine from Aram. The record preserves the family’s actual ancestry and reflects marriages and household arrangements common in the ancient Near East.

Num 26:31 the Asrielite clan from Asriel, the Shechemite clan…
Jos 17:2 So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants…

She also gave birth to Machir the father of Gilead.

Machir became the leading ancestor of the Gileadite clans. His descendants held an important place in the settlement and defense of Gilead, the fertile and strategic region east of the Jordan.

Num 26:29 These were the descendants of Manasseh:…
Jos 17:1 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
Deu 3:15 To Machir I gave Gilead,

Machir took a wife from among the Huppites and Shuppites.

Machir, Manasseh’s firstborn, established the line of Gilead. His marriage connected the house of Manasseh with Benjaminite clans, preserving the family relationships recorded among Israel’s tribes.

Num 26:39 the Shuphamite clan from Shupham, and…
Gen 46:21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera,…
Jos 17:1-2 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…

The name of his sister was Maacah.

Maacah’s name is included because she belonged to this important family line and helped identify its household connections.

2Sa 3:3 his second was Chileab, by Abigail the widow of Nabal…
1Ki 15:2 and he reigned in Jerusalem three years.…
2Ch 11:20-22 After her, he married Maacah daughter of Absalom,…

Another descendant was named Zelophehad, who had only daughters.

Zelophehad belonged to the line of Gilead and left no sons. His daughters received their father’s inheritance so that his name and property would remain within the tribe of Manasseh.

Num 27:1-11 Now the daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher…
Num 36:1-12 Now the family heads of the clan of Gilead…
Jos 17:3-6 But Zelophehad son of Hepher had no sons but only daughters.…

Machir’s wife Maacah gave birth to a son,

Machir was Manasseh’s firstborn and the father of the clan that bore his name. Maacah’s place in the genealogy preserves the family line within the tribe of Manasseh.

Num 26:29-34 These were the descendants of Manasseh:…
Jos 17:1-2 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
1Ch 2:21-23 Later, Hezron slept with the daughter of Machir…

and she named him Peresh.

Peresh, whose name means “division” or “separation,” became part of Machir’s household and the continuing record of Manasseh’s descendants.

Gen 29:32-35 And Leah conceived and gave birth to a son,…
Gen 30:6-8 Then Rachel said, “God has vindicated me;…
1Sa 1:20 So in the course of time, Hannah conceived and gave birth…

His brother was named Sheresh,

Sheresh, meaning “root” or “foundation,” was Peresh’s brother and likewise descended from Machir through Maacah, suggesting stability or foundational strength.

Gen 25:24-26 When her time came to give birth, there were indeed twins…
Gen 38:27-30 When the time came for Tamar to give birth,…
Gen 4:1-2 And Adam had relations with his wife Eve, and she conceived…

and his sons were Ulam and Rekem.

Ulam and Rekem extended Sheresh’s branch of the family, showing the growth of Manasseh’s tribal clans in Israel. Ulam means “porch” or “vestibule,” while Rekem means “variegation” or “embroidery.”

1Ch 8:39-40 The sons of his brother Eshek: Ulam was his firstborn…
Num 31:8 Among the slain were Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba…
Jos 13:21 all the cities of the plateau…

The son of Ulam: Bedan.

Bedan, whose name means “son of judgment” or “servant,” belonged to the family of Gilead within the tribe of Manasseh, preserving the record of a clan descended from Joseph.

1Sa 12:11 So the LORD sent Jerubbaal, Barak, Jephthah, and Samuel…
1Ch 8:39-40 The sons of his brother Eshek: Ulam was his firstborn…

These were the sons of Gilead

Gilead’s descendants formed an important branch of the eastern half of Manasseh, whose families occupied territory east of the Jordan.

Num 26:29-30 These were the descendants of Manasseh:…
Jos 17:1-3 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
Num 27:1-7 Now the daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher…

son of Machir,

Machir was Manasseh’s firstborn and the father of the Gileadite clans. His descendants received and settled the land of Gilead.

Num 32:39-40 The descendants of Machir son of Manasseh went to Gilead,…
Jos 13:31 half of Gilead; and Ashtaroth and Edrei…
Deu 3:13-15 To the half-tribe of Manasseh I gave the rest of Gilead…

the son of Manasseh.

Manasseh, whose name means “causing to forget,” Joseph’s firstborn, became the head of one of Israel’s largest tribes. His descendants inherited land on both sides of the Jordan River.

Gen 46:20 Manasseh and Ephraim were born to Joseph in Egypt…
Gen 48:5-6 And now your two sons born to you in Egypt…
Gen 48:19-20 But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!”…

His sister Hammolecheth

Gilead’s sister, Hammolecheth, whose name means “queen” or “ruler,” is included in the genealogy of Manasseh, preserving a branch of the household through her descendants.

1Ch 4:3 These were the sons of Etam: Jezreel, Ishma, and Idbash.…
1Ch 2:16 Their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. And the three sons…
Exo 6:20 And Amram married his father’s sister Jochebed,…

gave birth to Ishhod, Abiezer, and Mahlah.

Her sons, Ishhod (“man of glory”), Abiezer, and Mahlah (“sickness” or “disease”), represent family lines within Manasseh. Abiezer became the forefather of the Abiezrite clan, an established Manassite family in later generations. Their inclusion reflects the careful preservation of the households through which the tribe’s inheritance and identity were maintained.

Jos 17:2 So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants…
Jdg 6:11 Then the angel of the LORD came and sat down…
Num 26:33 Now Zelophehad son of Hepher had no sons but only daughters.…

And these were the sons of Shemida:

Shemida belonged to the tribe of Manasseh through Gilead and Machir. His family formed part of the clans descended from Joseph, whose inheritance was established among the tribes of Israel.

Num 26:31 the Asrielite clan from Asriel, the Shechemite clan…
Jos 17:2 So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants…

Ahian,

Ahian, whose name means “brotherly” or “fraternal,” was one of Shemida’s sons, preserving the record of a distinct family within Manasseh.

1Ch 5:23-24 Now the people of the half-tribe of Manasseh…
Jos 13:29-31 This is what Moses had given to the clans…

Shechem,

Shechem is named among Shemida’s descendants. Though the name also recalls an important city in Israel’s history, the record identifies an individual within the Manassite genealogy.

Gen 33:18-20 After Jacob had come from Paddan-aram, he arrived safely…
Gen 34:1-2 Now Dinah, the daughter Leah had borne to Jacob,…
Jos 24:1-2 Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem.…

Likhi,

Likhi is included as a member of Shemida’s household, showing the breadth of the family lines counted within the tribe.

Deu 3:12-13 So at that time we took possession of this land…
Jos 17:7-13 Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath…
Ezk 48:4 Manasseh will have one portion bordering the territory…

and Aniam.

Aniam, whose name means “people of grace” or “people of favor,” completes the list of Shemida’s sons. These genealogies confirmed the families connected to Israel’s tribal inheritance.

Jos 17:14-18 Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua,…
Num 27:1-11 Now the daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher…

The Descendants of Ephraim

The descendants of Ephraim:

Ephraim, Joseph’s younger son, received an inheritance among Israel’s tribes through Jacob’s adoption of him and Manasseh. His tribe later became a leading force in the central hill country and in the northern kingdom.

Gen 48:19-20 But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!”…
Num 1:32-33 From the sons of Joseph: From the sons of Ephraim,…
Jos 16:1-10 The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended…

Shuthelah,

Shuthelah stood at the head of an Ephraimite clan, preserving the family line within the tribe.

Num 26:35-36 These were the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: …
Deu 33:13-17 Concerning Joseph he said: “May his land be blessed…

Bered his son,

Bered continued the descent from Shuthelah, recording the successive generations through whom Ephraim’s household endured.

Jos 17:14-18 Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua,…
1Sa 1:1-2 Now there was a man named Elkanah who was from…

Tahath his son,

Tahath belonged to the next generation of this family line, showing the ordered transmission of Ephraim’s inheritance.

1Ch 6:33-38 These are the men who served, together with their sons.…
Jdg 12:1-6 Then the men of Ephraim assembled and crossed the Jordan…

Eleadah his son,

Eleadah carried the genealogy forward as Ephraim’s descendants increased within Israel.

Jos 17:1-6 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
Psa 80:1-2 For the choirmaster. To the tune of “The Lilies…

Tahath his son,

A later Tahath continued the line, likely bearing an ancestral name and reflecting the family’s concern to preserve its heritage.

Hos 11:8-9 How could I give you up, O Ephraim? How could I surrender…
Psa 78:67-68 He rejected the tent of Joseph, and refused…

Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son.

Ephraim’s family line continued through these sons, preserving the tribal record and the inheritance connected with Joseph’s descendants.

Num 26:35 These were the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: …
Jos 16:1-4 The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended…
Gen 48:19-20 But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!”…

Ezer and Elead were killed by the natives of Gath,

Ezer and Elead were slain by the men of Gath, a fortified city whose inhabitants defended their territory and possessions.

1Sa 17:4-10 Then a champion named Goliath, who was from Gath,…
2Sa 21:20-22 And there was also a battle at Gath, where there was a man…
1Ch 20:5-8 Once again there was a battle with the Philistines…

because they went down to steal their livestock.

Their attempt to seize cattle brought a deadly retaliation, bringing grief to Ephraim and marking a tragic loss within his household.

Exo 22:1-4 If a man steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters or sells it…
2Sa 12:1-6 Then the LORD sent Nathan to David, and when he arrived,…
Pro 6:30-31 Men do not despise the thief if he steals…

Their father Ephraim mourned for many days,

Ephraim grieved deeply over the loss of Ezer and Elead, who were killed by the men of Gath, a Philistine city, while attempting to take their livestock. Their deaths brought sorrow to a family whose descendants held a central place among the tribes of Israel.

Gen 37:34 Then Jacob tore his clothes, put sackcloth around his waist,…
2Sa 18:33 The king was shaken and went up to the chamber over the gate…
Gen 50:3 taking the forty days required.…

and his relatives came to comfort him.

Ephraim’s family gathered around him in his grief, sharing the burden of his loss and providing the support expected among close kin.

Gen 37:35 All his sons and daughters tried to comfort him,…
Job 42:11 All his brothers and sisters and prior acquaintances came…
Job 2:11 Now when Job’s three friends came from their homes…

And again he slept with his wife,

Ephraim’s family continued after the loss of his sons, preserving his household and inheritance.

Gen 4:25 And Adam again had relations with his wife…
2Sa 12:24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her…

and she conceived and gave birth to a son.

The child’s birth marked the renewal of Ephraim’s line after a season of grief.

Gen 30:23 she conceived and gave birth to a son. “God has taken away…
1Sa 1:20 So in the course of time, Hannah conceived and gave birth…

So he named him Beriah,

Ephraim chose a name that remembered the sorrow surrounding his family; Beriah means “in trouble” or “misfortune.”

1Sa 4:21 And she named the boy Ichabod, saying, ……
Gen 35:18 And with her last breath—for she was dying—…

because tragedy had come upon his house.

The name recalled the death of Ephraim’s sons in the conflict with the men of Gath and preserved the memory of that calamity.

2Sa 12:10-14 Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house,…
Job 1:18-19 While he was still speaking, another messenger came…

His daughter was Sheerah,

Sheerah stands out among the descendants of Ephraim as a woman remembered for her role in Israel’s early settlement. Her inclusion in the genealogy preserves her place within the family’s history and connects her name with enduring works in the land.

Num 27:1-8 Now the daughters of Zelophehad son of Hepher…
Jos 17:3-6 But Zelophehad son of Hepher had no sons but only daughters.…
1Ch 2:34-35 Sheshan had no sons, but only daughters.…

who built Lower and Upper Beth-horon,

These neighboring towns lay on an important route between the coastal plain and the hill country. Their location gave them military and commercial importance, and their construction strengthened Ephraim’s presence in the region. Beth-horon later became the setting of significant events in Israel’s wars.

2Ch 8:5 He rebuilt Upper and Lower Beth-horon as fortified cities…
1Ki 9:17 So Solomon rebuilt Gezer, Lower Beth-horon,
Jos 16:3 Then it descended westward to the border of the Japhletites…

as well as Uzzen-sheerah.

This settlement apparently bore Sheerah’s name, preserving the memory of her work and influence. Her building projects show that members of Ephraim’s family contributed directly to the establishment of towns that remained important throughout Israel’s history.

Jos 19:47 Later, when the territory of the Danites was lost…
Jdg 18:29 They named it Dan, after their forefather Dan…
Gen 28:19 and he called that place Bethel, though previously the city…

Additionally, Rephah was his son,

Rephah stands in the continuing line of Ephraim, preserving the record of a tribe that held a prominent place among Israel. The genealogy affirms the lasting inheritance given to Ephraim’s descendants.

Gen 48:19-20 But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!”…
1Ch 5:1-2 These were the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel.…
Jos 1:1 Now after the death of His servant Moses,…

Resheph his son,

Resheph follows Rephah in the family line, showing the orderly succession of generations within the tribe. Such records established ancestral identity and tribal belonging in Israel.

Deu 32:24 They will be wasted from hunger and ravaged by pestilence…
Psa 78:48 He abandoned their cattle to the hail and their livestock…
Hab 3:5 Plague went before Him, and fever followed in His steps.

Telah his son,

Telah continues the descent through Ephraim’s household. Though little else is known of him, his name belongs to the historical record of the family through whom Ephraim’s tribal heritage endured.

Jos 16:5-10 This was the territory of the descendants of Ephraim…
Jos 17:1-4 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
Jos 24:29-31 Some time later, Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD,…

Tahan his son,

Tahan completes this portion of the genealogy. His inclusion demonstrates the care taken to preserve the lineage of Ephraim and the continuity of Israel’s tribes through successive generations.

Num 26:35 These were the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: …
Num 27:18-23 And the LORD replied to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun,…
Deu 31:7-8 Then Moses called for Joshua and said to him…

Ladan his son,

Laadan belonged to the line of Ephraim, preserving the family record through generations after Israel’s settlement in the land.

1Ch 26:21 From the descendants of Ladan, who were Gershonites…
1Ch 23:8 The sons of Ladan: Jehiel the first, Zetham…
1Ch 23:7 The Gershonites: Ladan and Shimei.

Ammihud his son,

Ammihud, meaning “my kinsman is majesty,” continued this Ephraimite household within a tribe that held a prominent place among Israel’s northern tribes.

Num 7:48 On the seventh day Elishama son of Ammihud,…
Num 10:22 Next, the divisions of the camp of Ephraim…
Num 1:10 from the sons of Joseph: from Ephraim, Elishama son of…

Elishama his son,

Elishama, meaning “God has heard,” was the father of Nun and grandfather of Joshua, linking this genealogy to the leader God appointed to bring Israel into Canaan.

Num 7:53 and a peace offering of two oxen, five rams,…
Num 10:22 Next, the divisions of the camp of Ephraim…
1Ch 14:7 Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.

Nun his son,

Nun, whose name means “fish” or “posterity,” stood in the line of Ephraim and was the father of Joshua. Though little else is recorded of him, his place in the genealogy establishes Joshua’s inheritance within Israel.

Num 13:8 from the tribe of Ephraim, Hoshea son of Nun;
Num 13:16 These were the names of the men Moses sent to spy…
Num 27:18 And the LORD replied to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun,…

and Joshua his son.

Joshua, whose name means “Yahweh is salvation,” succeeded Moses and led Israel across the Jordan into Canaan. His leadership brought the conquest and settlement of the land God had promised to the tribes.

Jos 1:1 Now after the death of His servant Moses,…
Deu 34:9 Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom…
Jos 24:29 Some time later, Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD,…

Their holdings and settlements included Bethel and its villages,

Bethel, meaning “House of God,” was an important center in Israel’s history, remembered as the place where Jacob received God’s promise and saw the vision of the stairway to heaven. Its surrounding villages formed part of Ephraim’s inherited territory.

Jos 16:1-3 The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended…
Jos 18:11-13 The first lot came up for the clans of the tribe of Benjamin…
Jdg 1:22-26 The house of Joseph also attacked Bethel.…

Naaran to the east,

Naaran marked the eastern extent of these Ephraimite settlements, showing that the tribe’s holdings included both major towns and smaller communities.

Jos 16:4-7 So Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph…
Jos 17:7-10 Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath…
Jos 18:12-14 On the north side their border began at the Jordan,…

Gezer and its villages to the west,

Gezer stood on a strategic route between the hill country and the coastal plain. Though originally a Canaanite stronghold, it later came under Israelite control and remained an important fortified city.

Jos 16:3 Then it descended westward to the border of the Japhletites…
Jos 21:21 they were given Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim…
1Ki 9:15-17 This is the account of the forced labor…

and Shechem and its villages

Shechem was a leading city in the hill country of Ephraim. It was associated with the patriarchs, Israel’s covenant renewal, and later tribal leadership, making it a significant religious and political center.

Jos 17:7-8 Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath…
Jos 20:7 So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country…
Jos 24:1-2 Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem.…

as far as Ayyah and its villages.

Ayyah marked the further boundary of the listed settlements. Together, these places describe a broad and productive region belonging to the descendants of Ephraim.

Jos 7:2-5 Meanwhile, Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai,…
Jos 8:1-29 Then the LORD said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid…
Jos 12:9 the king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai,…

And along the borders of Manasseh

Manasseh, Joseph’s elder son, received inheritance on both sides of the Jordan. These towns lay within or near the western territory associated with Manasseh, an important region of fertile plains and strategic routes.

Jos 17:7-10 Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath…
Jos 17:1-2 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…

were Beth-shean, Taanach, Megiddo, and Dor,

Beth-shean stood in the Jordan Valley, while Taanach and Megiddo guarded routes through the Jezreel Valley. Dor was a significant coastal center. Together, these cities connected inland trade routes with the Mediterranean coast and were long established as Canaanite strongholds.

Jdg 1:27 At that time Manasseh failed to drive out…
1Ki 4:12 Baana son of Ahilud in Taanach, in Megiddo,…

together with their villages.

The surrounding settlements supplied the cities with agricultural produce, labor, and local support, forming part of the territory occupied by Manasseh.

Jos 16:9 along with all the cities and villages set apart…
Jos 17:11 Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh was assigned Beth-shean,…

The descendants of Joseph son of Israel lived in these towns.

Joseph’s family, represented chiefly by Ephraim and Manasseh, received a double inheritance in Israel. Their settlement in these places marked the enduring fulfillment of the land promised to Jacob’s descendants.

Jos 16:1-4 The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended…
1Ch 5:1-2 These were the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel.…
Gen 48:5-6 And now your two sons born to you in Egypt…

The Descendants of Asher

The children of Asher:

Asher was Jacob’s son by Zilpah, Leah’s maidservant. His descendants became one of Israel’s twelve tribes and received territory along the fertile northern coast of Canaan.

Gen 35:26 And the sons of Leah’s maidservant Zilpah…
Num 1:40-41 From the sons of Asher, according to the records…
Num 2:27 The tribe of Asher will camp next to it.…

Imnah,

Imnah, whose name means “right hand” or “prosperity,” headed one of Asher’s family lines, contributing to the growth and identity of the tribe.

2Ch 31:14 Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the keeper of the East Gate,…
Num 26:44-45 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…

Ishvah,

Ishvah, whose name means “equal” or “level,” is listed among Asher’s sons as part of the established record of the tribe’s ancestral households.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Deu 33:24-25 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…

Ishvi,

Ishvi’s descendants formed another branch within Asher, preserving the family line through Israel’s generations. Ishvi’s name means “he resembles” or “he is equal.”

1Sa 14:49 Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, Ishvi,…
Jdg 5:17 Gilead remained beyond the Jordan.…

Beriah,

Beriah, whose name means “in trouble” or “a gift,” belonged to the same founding generation of Asher’s tribe. His household became part of the tribe’s larger inheritance in Israel.

1Ch 8:13 and Beriah and Shema (who were the heads of families…
1Ch 23:11 Jahath was the first and Zizah was the second;…

and their sister Serah.

Serah is notably named alongside her brothers, preserving her place within Asher’s family and Israel’s history.

Num 26:46 And the name of Asher’s daughter was Serah.
Ezk 48:2 Asher will have one portion bordering the territory of Dan…
Rev 7:6 from the tribe of Asher 12,000, from the tribe…

The sons of Beriah:

Beriah, whose name means “in trouble” or “a gift,” belonged to the tribe of Asher, and his descendants formed part of the clan structure through which the tribe preserved its inheritance and identity.

1Ch 8:16 Michael, Ishpah, and Joha were the sons of Beriah.
1Ch 8:13 and Beriah and Shema (who were the heads of families…

Heber,

Heber is listed among Beriah’s sons and represents one branch of Asher’s family line. His name means “comrade” or “enclave.”

1Ch 4:18 These were the children of Pharaoh’s daughter Bithiah…
Jdg 4:11 Now Heber the Kenite had moved away from the Kenites,…

as well as Malchiel,

Malchiel, whose name means “God is my king,” headed another branch of Beriah’s descendants within the tribe.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:45 And these were the descendants of Beriah: Heberite clan…

who was the father of Birzaith.

Birzaith was associated with Malchiel’s household, preserving the record of this family within Asher’s genealogy.

Jos 19:24-31 The fifth lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Asher:…
Jdg 1:31-32 Asher failed to drive out the inhabitants of Acco, Sidon,…

Heber was the father of Japhlet,

Heber, whose name means “comrade” or “enclave,” a descendant of Asher through Beriah, continued one of the principal family lines within the tribe. Japhlet is named here as part of the record preserving Asher’s inherited place among Israel’s tribes.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:45 And these were the descendants of Beriah: Heberite clan…

Shomer,

Shomer, whose name means “watchman” or “guardian,” belonged to the same household and shared in the tribal inheritance passed down through Heber’s line.

2Ki 12:21 His servants Jozabad son of Shimeath and Jehozabad…
2Ch 24:26 Those who conspired against Joash were Zabad son of…

and Hotham,

Hotham’s inclusion confirms the breadth of Heber’s family and the continuing growth of Asher’s descendants. His name means “seal” or “sign.”

1Ch 11:44 Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel,…
2Sa 23:24-39 Now these were members of the Thirty: Asahel…

and of their sister Shua.

Shua, whose name means “wealth” or “opulence,” is named with her brothers, preserving her place within the family record and showing the recognized identity of Heber’s household.

1Ch 2:3 The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, and Shelah.…
Gen 38:2 There Judah saw the daughter of a Canaanite man named Shua,…
Num 26:46 And the name of Asher’s daughter was Serah.

The sons of Japhlet:

Japhlet belonged to the tribe of Asher, whose families were recorded among Israel’s northern tribes. His descendants formed part of the clan structure that preserved Asher’s inheritance and identity.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…
Deu 33:24-25 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…

Pasach, Bimhal, and Ashvath.

These sons are known only through this family record. Their inclusion preserves the household line of Japhlet within the tribe of Asher.

Gen 25:1-4 Now Abraham had taken another wife, named Keturah,…
Gen 36:10-14 These are the names of Esau’s sons: Eliphaz…
1Ch 1:32-33 The sons born to Keturah, Abraham’s concubine…

These were Japhlet’s sons.

The record confirms their place in Asher’s genealogy and in the continuing fulfillment of God’s promise to multiply the descendants of Israel.

Gen 25:13-16 These are the names of the sons of Ishmael:…
Gen 36:40-43 These are the names of Esau’s chiefs…
1Ch 1:29-31 These are their genealogies: Nebaioth the firstborn…

The sons of Shemer:

Shemer belonged to the tribe of Asher, whose families received an inheritance in the fertile northern land of Canaan. His descendants helped preserve the tribal lines through which property, family standing, and covenant identity were maintained.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…
Jos 19:24-31 The fifth lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Asher:…

Ahi,

Ahi, whose name means “my brother,” was one of Shemer’s sons and part of the continuing household of Asher.

1Ch 5:15 Ahi son of Abdiel, the son of Guni, was head of their family…
Jdg 5:17 Gilead remained beyond the Jordan.…
1Ch 12:36 From Asher: 40,000 fit for service, prepared for battle.

Rohgah,

Rohgah is included among Shemer’s sons, preserving the record of this branch of Asher’s family. His name may be related to a Hebrew root meaning “to roar” or “to shout.”

Gen 49:20 Asher’s food will be rich; he shall provide royal delicacies…
Jdg 1:31-32 Asher failed to drive out the inhabitants of Acco, Sidon,…

Hubbah,

Hubbah belonged to the same household and represents another recognized family line within the tribe.

Deu 33:24-25 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…
Jos 21:30-31 From the tribe of Asher they were given Mishal, Abdon,…
Ezk 48:34 And on the west side, which will be 4,500 cubits long,…

and Aram.

Aram completes the list of Shemer’s sons. Together, these names show the established families through whom Asher’s tribe continued in Israel.

Gen 10:22-23 The sons of Shem: Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram.…
1Ch 1:17 The sons of Shem: Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud…
Gen 22:21 Uz the firstborn, his brother Buz, Kemuel…

The sons of his brother Helem:

Helem was the brother of Shomer, and his family formed another branch within the tribe of Asher. The genealogy preserves the households through which Asher’s inheritance and tribal identity continued.

Deu 33:24-25 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…
Jos 19:24-31 The fifth lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Asher:…
Ezk 48:2-3 Asher will have one portion bordering the territory of Dan…

Zophah,

Zophah appears first among Helem’s sons, representing one of the family lines counted within Asher; his name may mean “overflowing” or “abundant.”

Num 1:40-41 From the sons of Asher, according to the records…
Jdg 5:17 Gilead remained beyond the Jordan.…

Imna,

Imna, whose name may mean “right hand” or “prosperity,” is included among Helem’s descendants, showing the continued growth of this Asherite household.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…

Shelesh,

Shelesh, whose name might mean “third” or “triplet,” belonged to the same family branch and shared in the tribe’s established place among Israel.

1Ch 12:36 From Asher: 40,000 fit for service, prepared for battle.
Rev 7:6 from the tribe of Asher 12,000, from the tribe…

and Amal.

Amal, whose name can mean “labor” or “toil,” completes the record of Helem’s sons, reflecting the careful preservation of Israel’s tribal families and ancestral inheritance.

Gen 49:20 Asher’s food will be rich; he shall provide royal delicacies…
Luk 2:36-38 There was also a prophetess named Anna, the daughter…

The sons of Zophah:

Zophah belonged to the clan of Helem within the tribe of Asher. His household formed part of the tribal families preserved in the chronicler’s record of Israel’s inheritance.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…
Deu 33:24 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…

Suah,

Suah was one of Zophah’s sons, representing a branch of Asher’s growing population in Israel.

Gen 25:2 and she bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan…
1Ch 1:32 The sons born to Keturah, Abraham’s concubine…
Job 2:11 Now when Job’s three friends came from their homes…

Harnepher,

Harnepher appears among the descendants whose families helped maintain the identity and order of the tribe.

Num 26:32-33 the Shemidaite clan from Shemida, and the Hepherite clan…
Jos 17:2-3 So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants…
1Ch 4:6 Naarah bore to him Ahuzzam, Hepher, Temeni…

Shual,

Shual belonged to the same household and shared in the ancestral heritage of Asher. His name may be connected to the Hebrew word for “fox.”

1Sa 13:17 And raiders went out of the Philistine camp…
Jdg 15:4 Then Samson went out and caught three hundred foxes.…
Lam 5:18 because of Mount Zion, which lies desolate…

Beri,

Beri’s inclusion confirms the extent of Zophah’s family line within the tribal genealogy.

1Ch 8:13 and Beriah and Shema (who were the heads of families…
1Ch 8:16 Michael, Ishpah, and Joha were the sons of Beriah.
1Ch 23:10-11 And the sons of Shimei: Jahath, Zina, Jeush, and Beriah.…

Imrah,

Imrah completes the list of Zophah’s sons, preserving the record of a family that remained part of Israel’s covenant community.

2Ch 31:14 Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the keeper of the East Gate,…
1Ch 9:4 Uthai son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri,…
Neh 3:2 The men of Jericho built next to Eliashib,…

Bezer,

Bezer was a son of Zophah in the genealogy of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:37).

Deu 4:43 Bezer in the wilderness on the plateau…
Jos 20:8 And beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho, they designated…
Jos 21:36 From the tribe of Reuben they were given Bezer, Jahaz,

Hod,

Hod was another son of Zophah, listed among the descendants of Asher.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…

Shamma,

Shamma, meaning “astonishment” or “desolation,” is listed among the descendants of Asher in 1 Chronicles 7:37.

Gen 36:13 These are the sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah…
1Ch 1:37 The sons of Reuel: Nahath, Zerah, Shammah, and Mizzah.

Shilshah,

Shilshah is named in the genealogical record of Asher, which identifies the branches of the tribe. Its meaning is uncertain, though it may be related to the Hebrew word for “third” or “triplet.”

Jos 19:24-31 The fifth lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Asher:…
Jdg 1:31-32 Asher failed to drive out the inhabitants of Acco, Sidon,…

Ithran,

Ithran, meaning “abundance” or “advantage,” was a descendant of Zophah and belonged to the extended family of Asher.

Gen 36:26 These are the sons of Dishon: Hemdan, Eshban…
1Ch 1:41 The son of Anah: Dishon. The sons of Dishon:…

and Beera.

The list concludes with another son of Zophah, Beera, meaning “well” or “fountain,” contributing to the record of the tribal families of Israel.

1Ch 5:6 and Beerah his son, whom Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria…
Num 26:5-7 Reuben was the firstborn of Israel. These were…

The sons of Jether:

Jether, whose name means “abundance” or “excellence,” belonged to the tribe of Asher, and his family formed part of the clan structure preserved in the tribal genealogies. These records established Israel’s ancestral lines and inheritance within the covenant people.

1Ch 2:17 Abigail was the mother of Amasa, whose father was…
2Sa 17:25 Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab.…
Jdg 8:20 So he said to Jether, his firstborn, “Get up and kill them.”…

Jephunneh,

Jephunneh was one of Jether’s sons, identified here only through his place in Asher’s family line.

Num 13:6 from the tribe of Judah, Caleb son of Jephunneh;
Jos 14:6 Then the sons of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal,…
Deu 1:36 except Caleb son of Jephunneh. He will see it,…

Pispa,

Pispa is likewise listed among Jether’s sons, preserving the record of a family otherwise unknown in Scripture.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…
Deu 33:24-25 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…

and Ara.

Ara completes the list of Jether’s sons, showing the continued growth of Asher’s tribe through its household lines. His name means “lion.”

Ezr 2:5 the descendants of Arah, 775;
Neh 7:10 the descendants of Arah, 652;

The sons of Ulla:

Ulla’s family is included among the descendants of Asher, preserving a distinct household within the tribe’s recorded line.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-47 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…
Deu 33:24 And concerning Asher he said: “May Asher be the most favored…

Arah,

Arah, whose name means “wayfarer” or “traveler,” is named as one of Ulla’s sons, contributing to the complete record of Asher’s clans.

Ezr 2:5 the descendants of Arah, 775;
Neh 7:10 the descendants of Arah, 652;

Hanniel,

Hanniel, meaning “God is gracious,” stands among the members of this Asherite family, whose descendants helped form the tribe’s inherited identity in Israel.

Num 34:23 Hanniel son of Ephod, a leader from the tribe of Manasseh…
Jos 17:1-6 Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh…
Deu 3:13-15 To the half-tribe of Manasseh I gave the rest of Gilead…

and Rizia.

Rizia completes Ulla’s line. His name may be related to words meaning “delight” or “pleasure.” Though little else is recorded of these men, their place in the genealogy confirms their recognized standing among the families of Asher.

Gen 49:20 Asher’s food will be rich; he shall provide royal delicacies…
Jdg 5:17 Gilead remained beyond the Jordan.…
Ezk 48:2 Asher will have one portion bordering the territory of Dan…

All these were the descendants of Asher—

Asher, Jacob’s eighth son and Zilpah’s second, became the forefather of a tribe settled in the fertile northern region of Canaan, known for its agricultural abundance.

Gen 46:17 The children of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi…
Num 26:44-46 These were the descendants of Asher by their clans:…

heads of their families,

Their households were ordered under recognized family leaders who preserved inheritance, identity, and tribal continuity.

Num 7:2 And the leaders of Israel, the heads of their families,…
Exo 6:14 These were the heads of their fathers’ houses…

choice and mighty men of valor,

Asher included proven warriors whose courage and strength equipped the tribe for Israel’s defense.

1Ch 12:8 Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold…
1Ch 12:21 They helped David against the raiders, for they were all…

and chiefs among the leaders.

These men also exercised authority in governing their clans and representing them in tribal affairs.

Num 1:16 These men were appointed from the congregation;…
Deu 1:13-15 Choose for yourselves wise, understanding, and respected men…

The number of men fit for battle,

The record identifies those prepared for military service,

Num 1:3 You and Aaron are to number those who are twenty years old…
2Sa 24:9 And Joab reported to the king the total number of the troops…

recorded in their genealogies,

The phrase “recorded in their genealogies” indicates that official family registers established each man’s place within the tribe.

1Ch 9:1 So all Israel was recorded in the genealogies…
Num 1:18 and on the first day of the second month…

was 26,000

Asher could provide 26,000 trained fighting men, demonstrating the tribe’s substantial strength.

Num 26:47 These were the clans of Asher, and their registration…
Num 1:41 those registered to the tribe of Asher numbered 41,500.

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



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