The term "Erite" refers to a descendant or member of the family of Eri, who is mentioned in the genealogies of the tribes of Israel. Eri is identified as one of the sons of Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The Gadites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for their valor and warrior spirit.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 46:16 : "The sons of Gad: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli." This verse lists the sons of Gad, among whom Eri is mentioned. Eri's descendants, the Erites, would have been part of the tribe of Gad, which settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

2. Numbers 26:15-18 : "These were the descendants of Gad by their clans: The Zephonite clan from Zephon, the Haggite clan from Haggi, the Shunite clan from Shuni, the Oznite clan from Ozni, the Erite clan from Eri, the Arodite clan from Arodi, and the Arelite clan from Areli. These were the clans of Gad, and their registration numbered 40,500." This passage provides a census of the tribe of Gad during the Israelites' wilderness journey, highlighting the Erite clan as one of the sub-groups within the tribe.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The tribe of Gad, including the Erites, played a significant role in the history of Israel. Known for their military prowess, the Gadites were often at the forefront of battles. Their territory, located east of the Jordan River, was fertile and well-suited for livestock, which was a primary occupation of the tribe.

The Erites, as part of the Gadite tribe, would have shared in the responsibilities and privileges of the tribal confederation of Israel. They participated in the conquest of Canaan under Joshua and were involved in the defense and expansion of their allotted territory.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Erites in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family and tribal identity in the narrative of Israel. Each clan, including the Erites, contributed to the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, particularly the promise of land and nationhood.

The Erites, like other clans, were part of the covenant community, bound by the laws and commandments given through Moses. Their identity as Erites would have been tied to their role in the larger account of God's redemptive plan for Israel and, ultimately, for all nations through the coming of the Messiah.

Conclusion:

While the Erites are not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, their mention in the genealogies serves as a reminder of the diverse and multifaceted nature of the people of Israel. Each clan, including the Erites, played a part in the unfolding account of God's covenant with His people.6180. Eri -- descendant of Eri
... of Eri NASB Word Usage Erites (1). Erites. Patronymically of Eriy; a Erite
(collectively) or descendants of Eri -- Erites. see HEBREW Eriy. 6179, 6180. ...
/hebrew/6180.htm - 6kErite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Erite (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:16 of Ozni, the
family of the Oznites; of Eri, the family of the Erites ...
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Aro'erite (1 Occurrence)
Aro'erite. Aroerite, Aro'erite. Arom . Multi-Version Concordance
Aro'erite (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 11:44 Uzzia ...
/a/aro'erite.htm - 6k

Eri-aku
Eri-aku. Eriaku, Eri-aku. Erite . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ERI-AKU. er ... Pinches. Eriaku, Eri-aku. Erite . Reference Bible.
/e/eri-aku.htm - 11k

Erites (1 Occurrence)

/e/erites.htm - 7k

Arom

/a/arom.htm - 6k

Aroerite (1 Occurrence)

/a/aroerite.htm - 7k

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